Spiders are great outdoors! After all, they catch all kinds of pests in their sticky webs. But, spiders in the house? They can be unwanted guests!
Even though most spiders are not harmful to humans, some may bite. They also can leave a mess with their webs around your home. Plus, a few spiders can quickly turn into a lot of spiders if they reproduce.
You may have heard that vinegar is a great tool in your spider-fighting arsenal. Is this true? How do you use it?
Contents
How Does Vinegar Kill Spiders?
White vinegar contains acetic acid. This is deadly to spiders. Vinegar is a perfect spider solution!
- Vinegar is inexpensive and easily accessible.
- It is non-toxic to family and pets.
- It won’t damage flooring and furniture.
How Do I Use Vinegar to Kill Spiders?
Find Spider Activity
Spiders can be quick! Look for spider hot spots around your home. If you find webs, you’ll probably find spiders, too.
Make a Solution
You’ll need:
- Water
- White vinegar
- A spray bottle
- Citrus peels (optional)
Mix the water and vinegar in equal parts in the spray bottle. Shake well to make sure it is evenly mixed. If the smell of vinegar is too strong for you, add some citrus peels to the bottle. Allow the peels to infuse the mixture for 24 hours before using it.
Apply Solution
Spray any live spiders you see. This requires some patience and speed! Don’t worry if you miss the spider. Also spray webs thoroughly, as well as any cracks or openings where spiders may sneak in. Spray walls and corners where you’ve seen spiders.
Repeat As Needed
Keep your spray bottle handy for the next time you see a spider! Repeat this process as needed for additional spiders, or new webs.
Spider Prevention
Clean up the Clutter
Don’t give the spiders extra shelter! Clean up any piles of clothing or blankets where they could hide. Remove any visible spider webs.
Clean up food crumbs and spills. Spiders may not be attracted to spilled food, but these treats will attract other bugs. Spiders are predators and will be drawn to bug activity.
Use Vinegar!
Vinegar to the rescue, again! You can set spider traps around your home. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Water
- White Vinegar
- Small trays or dishes
Mix the water and vinegar in equal parts. Pour a small amount into the trays or dishes. Place the containers near corners, cracks in the floors or walls, doors, or any other places where you have seen spiders.
These spider traps are dual purpose. First, the smell of the vinegar alone may be enough to deter the spiders from settling in. Second, if the spiders step in the vinegar, it will kill them.
When to Call an Exterminator
If you have a large-scale spider infestation and can’t make a dent in the spider population with vinegar, it’s time to call a trusted exterminator.
Final Thoughts
Sometimes there is a simple solution! If you share your home with spiders, regular white vinegar should get rid of them in no time.