Best Spider Repellent

There are many spider repellent sprays and other spider repellents on the market and all claim to be the best, but which one is? Some aren’t a good choice for indoor use, while others might not work as well on spiders. I tested different spider repellents, made a top rated list of the best spider repellents, did the research and compared them side by side until I found the Best Spider Repellent That Actually Works. This post will cover all types of spider repellent from natural products to harsh chemicals. It covers the bestsellers in spider repellents for your home and even the best time to apply these products. Unsure about that noise in your attic? Want those pesky spiders gone without harming you or the environment? This guide is for you.

Best Spider Repellent

Types of Spider Killers and Repellents

Pest control companies market a variety of products to control spider and spider mite issues. While most products work, some may be better suited for your needs than others. The best spider sprays, dust, and glue traps work in different ways but all serve the same purpose—for repelling or killing spiders.

Chemical Insecticide Dust 

Chemical-based insecticide dusts are ideal for killing bugs on their way into your home. These powders contain bifenthrin, permethrin, cyfluthrin, beta-cyfluthrin, deltamethrin, cypermethrin, or lambda-cyhalothrin. The compounds contained in the pesticides either compromise the spider’s nervous system or exoskeleton. They typically work within 24 hours, offering one of the quickest means of controlling spiders. Most manufacturers specify that the products last at least 2-3 years.

Since pesticide dusts are toxic, they should be sprinkled where no children or pets will get to them. They’re suitable for long-term solutions for under cabinets and along basement walls. If anyone in your household gets chemical insecticide in their eyes or mouth, contact Poison Control immediately for instructions on how to proceed.

Natural Insecticide Dust

Natural spider killers for both indoors and outdoors is diatomaceous earth. This compound contains fossilized aquatic organisms, available in dust (powder) form. Diatomaceous earth causes insects to dry out and die by absorbing oils and fats from their exoskeleton. This versatile, non-toxic product exterminates spiders and other insects including bed bugs, cockroaches, fleas, and ants.

The natural dust starts to work within 48 hours, and since the compound does not break down, it’s effective as long as it stays dry. Spread diatomaceous earth in a thin layer around plants, on the lawn, or anywhere else you want to get rid of spiders. While this product is considered safe, be careful during application, as it can irritate the skin and eyes.

Chemical Spider Sprays

There are several types of spray containers for killing spiders, including aerosol cans, liquid spray bottles, and large jugs that connect to garden hose nozzles. Chemical sprays contain the synthetic compounds that are sometimes present in dust pesticides. Some are available as concentrates that you dilute and apply using a spray bottle.

Chemical spider spray disrupts an insect’s central nervous system and kills them instantly. You can use sprays for the exterior of the home to create a barrier to keep bugs out, or as spot treatments when you see a crawling bug or two. Aerosol sprays make covering a lot of ground quick and easy. While spraying, it’s important to maintain 12 inches of space between the nozzle and the treated surface.

The downside is that they’re one of the costlier products, and you might need a few cans to spray large areas, like your home’s foundation. It’s also worth noting that oil-based aerosols are chemical-heavy, and can leave a greasy residue behind.

Spray bottles are usually lightweight and reusable. If you use the entire contents of the bottle, you can reuse it by filling it with a water-soluble pesticide. The only negative aspect of using spray bottles is that they can cause hand or arm fatigue when spraying large areas.

Natural Spider Sprays

Natural pest control concentrates and sprays repel spiders without the use of chemicals or other potentially harmful ingredients. These products offer a safer option for indoor use, particularly in households with young children or curious pets.

Natural repellents deter spiders using plants and compounds that are unpleasant to their senses; the same products have a pleasing or neutral smell to humans. Formulas containing peppermint essential oil are among the most popular, since they leave the home smelling fresh. Vinegar-based products are also effective, and many can double as household cleaners.

Natural spider repellents are usually applied by spraying hiding places for insects, like cracks and crawl spaces. Natural spider killers do not kill spiders, and their effects last for days instead of weeks or months, like chemical-based products.

Spider Traps

Another safe means of controlling crawling pests in the home is by using traps. Traps have sticky surfaces that catch bugs and hold them in place until they die. The best options fold up to keep pets and children from touching the sticky surface.

The added benefit of folding traps is that you don’t have to look at a pile of dead bugs on the floor—and they’re also less disgusting to pick up and throw away. Place them along walls and baseboards where bugs are likely to travel.

List of Best Spider Repellent