Wolf spiders can be a real nuisance, especially when they decide to take up residence in your home.
To get rid of wolf spiders, start by keeping your house clean and clutter-free. Sealing cracks and gaps in walls, windows, and doors can also prevent spiders from getting inside in the first place.
What if these methods don’t seem to work? Keep reading for detailed tips and tricks to keep your home wolf spider-free.
Key Takeaways
- Natural and chemical-free methods to control wolf spiders may include using essential oils, diatomaceous earth, citrus peels, vinegar sprays, glue boards, and encouraging natural predators.
- The large size, quick movements, hairy appearance, and presence of egg sacs and spiderlings are some signs of wolf spider infestations.
- Preventive measures to avoid wolf spider infestations focus on sealing entry points, maintaining a clean and clutter-free environment, managing outdoor lighting, and proper landscape and garden maintenance.
HOW TO GET RID OF WOLF SPIDERS
There are various natural and chemical-free methods for controlling wolf spiders. These methods effectively deter these arachnids without harmful chemicals.
Essential Oils
Essential oils are effective natural repellents for wolf spiders. They contain chemicals that make spiders avoid areas treated with them.
Peppermint oil, in particular, is popular due to its strong scent and accessibility. To leverage the unpleasant compounds, consider these vital aspects:
| Aspects | Details |
|---|---|
| Dilution | Mix 15-20 drops of peppermint oil with water in a spray bottle. |
| Application | Spray mixture along baseboards, corners, and entry points. |
| Consistency | Reapply every few days for the best results. |
Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a non-toxic, fine powder made from fossilized algae. It dehydrates insects and spiders that come into contact with it, ultimately killing them.
Here’s how to use diatomaceous earth to get rid of spiders:
- Sprinkle: Spread the powder in areas where spiders are commonly seen, such as basements, windows, and doorframes.
- Caution: Ensure the area is dry because moisture reduces effectiveness.
- Frequency: Reapply after cleaning or when needed to maintain effectiveness.
Citrus Peels
Citrus peels, especially from oranges and lemons, can deter wolf spiders. The smell of citric acid is unpleasant to spiders, making it an effective natural repellent.
To repel various types of spiders with citrus peels, use any of these methods:
| Recommended Methods | Details |
|---|---|
| Placement | Scatter fresh citrus peels in spider-prone areas. |
| Renewal | Replace peels weekly to maintain a strong scent. |
| DIY spray | Boil citrus peels in water to create a spray; apply it around windows and doors. |
Vinegar Sprays
Vinegar, especially white vinegar, is another chemical-free option to deter wolf spiders. The acetic acid in vinegar harms spiders and their eggs, making it a good deterrent.
Steps to use vinegar effectively:
- Mix: Combine equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle.
- Spray: Apply to cracks, crevices, and where spiders are found.
- Avoid direct contact: Avoid contact with plants and delicate surfaces while spraying.
Glue Boards
Glue boards are a physical method for trapping and removing wolf spiders. These sticky traps capture spiders as they move across them, preventing further infestation.
Set up glue boards by following these steps:
| Steps | Details |
|---|---|
| Placement | Set up boards along walls, behind furniture, and in dark corners. |
| Check regularly | Replace boards once they are full or after a few days. |
| Positioning | Ensure they are in high-traffic areas for spiders to maximize effectiveness. |
SIGNS OF WOLF SPIDER INFESTATIONS
Wolf spiders are intimidating due to their large size and quick movements. Identifying the signs of an infestation can help you take action before it gets out of control.
What to Look for
Wolf spiders typically live outdoors but venture inside for food or shelter. They prefer dark, secluded places such as closets, basements, and sheds. Here are the critical indicators that distinguish them from other arachnids like tarantulas:
| Indicators | Description |
|---|---|
| Large Size and Quick Movements | Can grow quite large, making them visible even at a distance. |
| Hairy Spiders | Possess a distinct hairy or furry appearance. |
| Large Eyes | Eight eyes arranged in three rows, with the middle row having the largest eyes. |
| Egg Sacs | Female wolf spiders carry their egg sacs attached to their spinnerets. |
| Spiderlings | Newly hatched spiders often cling to their mother’s back. |
HOW TO PREVENT A WOLF SPIDER INFESTATION
Although wolf spider bites are unlikely, taking steps to prevent them from invading your home can save you a lot of hassle.
Seal Cracks and Openings
Wolf spiders often enter homes through small gaps or cracks. Seal these entry points to prevent them from getting inside by following these actions:
- Use caulk to seal wall and foundation cracks
- Install weather stripping on doors and windows
- Check basements and garages regularly
- Ensure window screens are intact
Maintain a Clean and Clutter-Free Environment
Wolf spiders are attracted to cluttered areas where they can find hiding spots. So, keeping your home clean and organized can deter them. Consider taking these actions:
- Regularly vacuum and clean rooms, especially basements and garages.
- Properly store food to avoid attracting insects like wasps, roaches, and crickets.
- Reduce clutter in storage areas to eliminate potential hiding places.
- Clear out old boxes and piles of clothes where spiders might nest.
Manage Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor lighting can attract insects, which in turn attract wolf spiders. To help keep them away, adjust your lighting by:
- Installing yellow or sodium vapor lights.
- Keeping lights away from doors and windows.
- Using timers or motion detectors.
- Minimizing light spillage indoors.
Landscape and Garden Maintenance
A well-maintained yard can reduce the likelihood of wolf spiders venturing into your home. Landscaping plays a crucial role in this. Key actions include:
- Remove mulch and leaf litter near the house
- Trim bushes and trees
- Clear rocks, woodpiles, and debris
- Maintain short grass
SHOULD YOU GET IN TOUCH WITH PEST CONTROL PROFESSIONALS?
If there’s a severe infestation in your home, or if someone is experiencing repeated sightings of wolf spiders or other spider species, it’s often best to call pest control experts.
Whether you’re in Baton Rouge or New Orleans, seeking expert help should be easy. For immediate intervention for a severe infestation, let Lajaunie’s spider control specialists tailor a solution that’s right for your home.
For more information about the areas we service, visit our location page.