What has eight legs and is just looking for a nice dark spot to rest and feast? Spiders. A change of weather can force spiders that normally reside outside to find refuge and food indoors. This could force arachnophobics to panic, but not all spiders are looking to harm you. Here’s a list of some of the most common spider types you’ll find in and around your home and whether you should worry.

Why Spiders Want In

Spiders are after the same thing every other living species wants: food and shelter. While all spiders originate outdoors, they may be looking to come inside once it turns cold and the food supply (bugs) dwindles. 

You may start to see more spiders in your basement, attic, bathroom, or making its way to one of these places via any wall in your home. Why? Most spiders prefer the dark, moist, secluded spaces where they can catch bugs in peace. This is why corners collect webs and those often forgotten storage spaces become a pest paradise.

Before you see a spider and freak out, remember this: spiders are helpful. That food they so desperately want are the roaches, flies, and other insects you desperately want gone. Plus, a majority of spiders are harmless, even if the sight of their eight creepy legs startle you.

Harmless Spider Types

Let’s properly introduce you to some harmless spiders that may make their way inside your home. Maybe meeting them won’t be so uncomfortable if you know they come in peace.

American house spider. These small, round spiders are usually gray with white markings. 

Daddy longlegs. Most recognizable by its tiny body and very thin, long legs. They’re mostly outside but could frequent your siding or decks for snacks. 

Wolf spider. They can range in size and appearance. Some of the largest are over an inch long. Their hair is usually on the darker side, either gray, brown or black. They don’t spin webs, they simply hunt and catch their prey. They’re more concerned with hiding in dark, enclosed spaces indoors or out than biting a person that finds them.

Biters & Fighters

There are many different spiders that are known to bite, but few that cause a painful reaction.

Jumping spider. There are many different types of this spider species, but they all have large, front eyes. They’re not web-builders, but they are active in the daytime, making them easy to spot on walls or ceilings. It’s possible they can bite but won’t do much damage.

Yellow sac spider. You may first notice the tent-like silk structure these spiders build to hide in during the day. Their light, yellowish color is contrasted by a dark v-shaped marking. They can be living-room-corner dwellers, but it’s unlikely they’ll bother you.

Orb weaver spiders. These masterful weavers build huge webs you may notice dazzling in the morning dew. They build a new web each day trying for a fresh catch. You’ll find them in close proximity to outdoor lights that attract their favorite flying ingredients. They can bite, but it’s not known to do any harm.

Grass spiders. These brown spiders are more likely to frequent the foundation of your home, but may wander in when looking for a mate. They’re also known to bite with little damage done.

Black widow. Shiny black body with a red hourglass-shaped markings set them apart. They prefer corners and other edgy areas indoors or out. They’re one of the few spiders that do bite and can cause pain, muscle stiffness, and other bite-related symptoms that require immediate medical attention.

Brown recluse. This six-eyed spider has a distinct mark on its head and neck. True to its name, it prefers undisturbed areas of your home. It may bite if you unexpectedly find it hiding in folded linen or unpopular shoes. Once you take these items out of storage, it’s a good idea to shake them out before putting them on. Their bites can also do serious damage.

Hobo spider. Hairs are different shades of brown and they have spiny legs. They may also hide in clothing, so it’s best to shake things out to prevent a painful bite.

Preventing Common Spider Types

If you don’t care that some of these spiders can do more good than harm, and you want any and all creepy crawlies out of your house, there are certain pest prevention methods to take. 

1. Keep stored items in properly sealed containers to prevent pests from nesting.
2. Keep areas clean and clear of debris pests can hide in.
3. Fix any leaks or excess moisture to prevent thirsty pests from finding it.
4. Apply preventative pesticides around the perimeter of your home.
5. Contact a pest control specialist.

If you’ve dealt with spiders in the past, chances are they’ll find a way back into your home again. Contact Cardinal Pest for an evaluation of your home and what you can do to prevent pests, remove them, and keep them out.