Central Florida’s warm, humid climate makes it a haven for spiders. Whether you’re dealing with cellar spiders, wolf spiders, or the occasional black widow, these eight-legged visitors are a common (and often unwelcome) part of life in the Sunshine State.
But what can you do about them? Unlike pests like roaches or ants, spiders don’t groom themselves or follow trails of crumbs into your home. Instead, they wander in by accident, seeking shelter, moisture, or prey. Once inside, they’re not easy to evict—unless you spray them directly or step on them. Still, there are ways to deter spiders naturally and reduce their presence in your home.
Common Spiders in Central Florida
Wolf Spiders
Large, fast-moving, and often found in gardens or garages.
They don’t spin webs but hunt their prey on the ground.
Cellar Spiders (Daddy Longlegs)
Recognizable by their long, spindly legs and messy, tangled webs.
Often found in basements, garages, and corners of ceilings.
Black Widow Spiders
Shiny black with a red hourglass marking.
Prefer dark, undisturbed areas like sheds, woodpiles, and under furniture.
Brown Recluse Spiders
Light brown with a violin-shaped marking on their back.
Prefer quiet, cluttered spaces like closets, attics, and behind baseboards.
Jumping Spiders
Small, fuzzy, and known for their ability to jump.
Often found on walls or windowsills, hunting for insects.
Why Are Spiders in Your Home?
Spiders enter homes for three main reasons:
Shelter: They seek refuge from extreme weather, predators, or other spiders.
Moisture: Many species thrive in humid environments, like bathrooms and kitchens.
Prey: If your home has other pests (like flies or mosquitoes), spiders will follow.
How to Keep Spiders Out of Your Home
1. Seal Entry Points
Inspect windows, doors, and cracks in walls. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal gaps.
Install door sweeps to block gaps under doors.
2. Reduce Clutter
Spiders love hiding in piles of clothes, cardboard boxes, and unused items. Keep storage areas clean and organized.
Store firewood away from your home and elevate it off the ground.
3. Control Humidity
Use a dehumidifier in damp areas like basements and bathrooms.
Fix leaky pipes and ensure proper ventilation.
4. Natural Deterrents
Peppermint oil: Spiders dislike the scent. Mix 10-15 drops of peppermint essential oil with water in a spray bottle and apply around entry points, windows, and corners.
Vinegar: A 50/50 mix of vinegar and water can repel spiders when sprayed in problem areas.
Citrus peels: Place orange or lemon peels in areas where spiders are common.
5. Regular Cleaning
Dust and vacuum corners, ceilings, and behind furniture regularly to remove webs and egg sacs.
Pay attention to less-frequented areas like garages, attics, and crawl spaces.
What Doesn’t Work for Spiders
Ultrasonic repellents: There’s no scientific evidence that these work.
Traps without glue or bait: Spiders won’t be lured into them.
Ignoring the problem: Spiders reproduce quickly, so addressing an infestation early is key.
When to Call a Professional
If you’re dealing with a large infestation or venomous spiders like black widows or brown recluses, it’s best to contact a pest control expert. They can safely remove spiders and help prevent future invasions.
While spiders might give you the creeps, they’re actually beneficial—they help control other pests like flies and mosquitoes. However, if their presence is unwelcome, focus on prevention and natural deterrents before resorting to harsh chemicals.