Usually, you can easily eradicate the spider eggs that are starting to cause problems. Start by trying to identify the spider species. Even if most spiders are harmless, you should know the characteristics of poisonous spiders to stay safe. If you are dealing with poisonous spiders or a severe pest infestation, it is best to contact a professional. In general, using a vacuum cleaner to clean spiders and their eggs is the easiest and most effective way. You can also spray the pesticide directly on the spider and its egg sacs. Just make sure the product you use is oil-based, as water-based products are not effective at eradicating egg bags.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Recognizing Poisonous Spider Species
Step 1. Look at the spider and its egg sacs for poisonous species
Almost all spiders are harmless, but there are some species whose bites require medical attention for humans. If you can, inspect the spider's egg sac and body for signs of a poisonous species. Call a professional to get rid of poisonous spiders.
- The black widow spider species has a unique red marking, usually in the shape of an hourglass, on the underside of its body. It squirts a funnel-shaped net and has a yellowish-cream colored egg bag that is smooth, round, and has a diameter of about 1 to 1.25 cm.
- The brown widow spider is also poisonous, but not as aggressive as the black widow. The hourglass-shaped pattern on the underside of the body can be yellow or orange. It also has dark circles on its legs. The egg sac is also a yellowish cream color, but it is covered by tiny silk spikes.
- The brown recluse spider has a long body and slender legs. This species has a characteristic dark violin-shaped pattern on its back. Unlike most spiders, this species only has 6 eyes. The web is flat, shapeless, and looks like a blanket. The egg bag is very smooth with an odd shape and a bit rough, and about 1.5 cm in diameter.
Step 2. Seek professional help to deal with pest infestations
It's a good idea to call a professional if you experience a major pest attack, such as an area where your house is infested with spiders and their egg bags all over the place. Among the various poisonous species, the brown recluse spider is very difficult to control.
The brown recluse spider can survive for years without food and water. Because they are hunting spiders, this species usually likes to roam, hide, and move quickly. Spiders sitting in their nests are easier to control
Step 3. Wear protective clothing if you are dealing with poisonous spiders directly
You need to protect yourself if you don't want to use a professional just to deal with an egg bag or two. Before going to war, put on gloves and long sleeves, and long pants.
Method 2 of 3: Using a Vacuum Cleaner
Step 1. Clean spiders, webs and egg bags with a vacuum cleaner with a long attachment
Usually, a vacuum cleaner is the best line of defense against spiders and their egg pouches. If the egg bag is in an area that can be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner, use the long attachment to vacuum it along with any other spiders that are there.
You can also use a duster to remove spider webs and eggs
Step 2. Empty the vacuum cleaner bag outdoors
Take the device outside to empty its contents. If the bag is single use, simply seal the bag tightly and throw it in a closed bin outdoors. If the bag is reusable, empty the appliance in the trash, seal the bag, and throw it in the trash outdoors.
Spiders are so fragile that sucking them in with a machine can kill them. However, egg sacs have better protection so the eggs or spiders can survive
Step 3. Freeze the pouch if you come across a poisonous spider species
You may need to take extra safety measures when dealing with poisonous spiders. If you can, put the vacuum cleaner bag in the refrigerator for a few hours before throwing it in the trash.
Clean your cooler or freezer when you're done before using it again
Method 3 of 3: Using Oil-Based Pesticides
Step 1. Purchase an oil-based spray pesticide instead of a water-based product
Pesticides can be an alternative to killing egg bags when they are in an inaccessible area, when you don't have a vacuum cleaner, or when you don't want to use the device. Look for petroleum-based products online or at a home supply store.
- Because egg bags are waterproof, water-based pesticides are less effective.
- Use direct aerosol or spray products. Mist-producing products are also not effective against spiders.
Step 2. Follow safety measures when using hazardous chemicals
Make sure you stay safe by wearing gloves, long sleeves, and a breathing mask. If you have pets, check the safety warnings on the product for information on how to keep other animals away from the area being sprayed.
Step 3. Spray spider and egg bag directly
Spray the affected area according to the instructions on the product. After applying the pesticide, it's a good idea to keep sweeping or using a vacuum cleaner to treat the problem area.
Oil-based products are very effective at killing spider eggs, but you don't want to take any chances. Also, by leaving the cobwebs in place, they may be able to ensnare other insects and spiders
Step 4. Set sticky traps if you are dealing with hunting spiders
Sticky traps are basically pieces of cardboard that are coated with an adhesive substance. If you notice hunting spiders scurrying across the floor, such as a wolf or brown recluse spider, place the trap on walls, behind furniture, and in various entry points, such as a fox door or garage door.
- Pesticides are more effective at killing nesting spiders than hunting spiders, which can run away from chemical sprays.
- If you spray the egg bag, but the mother escapes, you may find a new egg bag sooner or later. Most spiders only need to mate once in their lifetime, but are capable of producing up to five pouches of eggs.
Step 5. Consider using an exterminator to install chemical insulation
If you continue to have problems, installing a pesticide screen at home can be the best solution. If you're dealing with a hunting spider species, you and the exterminator can also set sticky traps.
Tips
- Consider letting spiders live in your home, unless you believe they are a poisonous species. Spiders can control the presence of other, more annoying insects, such as flies and mosquitoes.
- Spiders are predators. So to get rid of them you need to remove things that attract other insects, such as reducing humidity in your home.
