If you’ve ever headed downstairs to grab something from storage only to walk through a spider web, you’re not alone.
Spiders in the basement are a common complaint among Michigan homeowners, especially in places like Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids, where our basements serve as both storage spaces and hideaways for local pests.
Understanding why these eight-legged visitors settle in below ground is the first step to getting rid of spiders and keeping your basement spider-free.
Here’s what draws spiders to basements, and how you can make yours a lot less appealing.
Key Takeaways
- Spiders enter basements through cracks, vents, and utility lines.
- Humidity and clutter provide the perfect conditions for spider infestation.
- Spiders often follow other pests into your basement in search of food.
- Effective spider control includes sealing entry points, reducing moisture, and calling a professional when needed.
1. Basements Offer Easy Entry Points
Michigan basements often have more cracks, gaps, and crevices than other parts of the home. Spiders find their way in through window sills, around plumbing pipes, and along the foundation. Once inside, they can tuck themselves into corners or behind boxes without being disturbed.
If you want to reduce the chance of a spider infestation, inspect and seal cracks, use caulk around windows and doors, and look closely at any vents or utility lines that lead outside. Plugging these entry points is a simple but effective DIY spider control step.
2. Spiders Love Low-Traffic Hiding Spots
Spiders are solitary hunters. They want quiet, dark places where they won’t be bothered. Cardboard boxes, crawl spaces, and behind storage shelves are ideal hiding spots for house spiders. The more clutter, the more options they have to hide and build webs.
Keep your basement clean and clutter-free. Vacuuming regularly and storing items in plastic bins instead of cardboard makes it harder for spiders to settle in. Decluttering makes the space more usable, removes spider hiding spots, and keeps the basement safer for everyone.
3. Humid Conditions Help Them Thrive
Basements in Michigan tend to have higher humidity levels than the rest of the house, especially in the spring and summer. Spiders and the insects they feed on are drawn to moisture. That makes damp basements a reliable food source and nesting area.
Running a dehumidifier in your basement can help reduce the moisture that attracts both spiders and their prey. You’ll also want to check for standing water or leaks, especially around laundry machines and the sump pump, for effective spider control.
4. Basements Provide Reliable Food Sources
Where there are other pests, spiders follow. Roaches, flies, and ants can all find their way into basements, especially if food is stored improperly or the space isn’t regularly cleaned. Spiders help control these populations, but that doesn’t mean you want a spider infestation either.
If you’ve noticed a lot of basement spiders, it may be a sign of another pest problem. A licensed pest control company can inspect your home and recommend solutions to eliminate both spiders and their food sources.
5. Basements Are Safe Spots for Egg Sacs
Basements offer quiet, undisturbed corners that are perfect for laying egg sacs. Once those hatch, your spider population can grow quickly. House spiders, wolf spiders, and even venomous spiders like the brown recluse or black widow may use these areas if left unchecked.
Spotting multiple webs or cobwebs? That could mean spiders have already laid egg sacs. Remove them carefully with a vacuum, and dispose of the bag outside. Sticky traps placed near walls and in corners can also help monitor for activity, especially during spider season.
Spider Control That Works in Michigan
Essential oils like peppermint oil can help repel spiders, mainly when used in a spray bottle with water and applied to entry points and baseboards. Some homeowners also try diatomaceous earth around windows and doors for a more natural deterrent.
While these DIY methods may offer temporary relief, they won’t stop a growing spider problem. If you’re seeing spiders regularly, or you’re concerned about venomous species like brown recluse spiders or black widows, it may be time to call a professional.
Pest Pros of Michigan offers customized spider control for homeowners in Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids, and surrounding areas. Just give us a call, and our team can help you get rid of spiders, seal entry points, and create a long-term prevention plan that works for your home.
FAQs
What kind of spiders are most common in Michigan basements?
House spiders and wolf spiders are common, but brown recluse spiders and black widows are occasionally spotted, especially in dark, cluttered areas.
Does peppermint work as a spider repellent?
Yes, the strong scent of peppermint oil can deter spiders, especially when applied to entry points and windowsills using a spray bottle. Reapply regularly for the best results.
How can I keep my basement spider-free long term?
Focus on sealing cracks, reducing humidity with a dehumidifier, and keeping your basement clean and clutter-free. A professional pest control company can help with lasting solutions.
