Nobody likes sharing their home with spiders, yet these eight-legged visitors often find their way into apartments unnoticed. Whether you’re a property manager looking to keep residents happy or a resident who just spotted a spider scuttling across the wall, knowing the signs of a spider infestation is crucial. Spiders can creep into spaces unnoticed, but their presence often leaves behind tell-tale signs if you know what to look for.
Let’s break down the clear signs of a potential spider problem and how to handle it effectively.
Spotting Spider Webs
One of the most obvious signs of a spider issue is the presence of webs. While a single web might not be a big deal, seeing several in different areas—especially in unused corners, closets, or basements—could mean more spiders are lurking nearby.
Spiders create webs not just as a home but as a hunting tool. If the webs look abandoned, new ones often appear to replace them. Keep an eye on spots where webs seem to pop up repeatedly. Some species, like cobweb spiders, create tangled webs, while others, such as orb-weavers, make large, circular designs. The type of web can even hint at the spider species you’re dealing with.
Finding Egg Sacs
Egg sacs are small, silken balls usually hidden in nooks and crannies. A single sac can house hundreds of spider eggs, so if you find one, it’s worth removing it quickly. Egg sacs can often be spotted in the same areas where webs are found—under furniture, in high corners, or even along baseboards.
If left undisturbed, these sacs will hatch, leading to a sudden increase in the spider population inside your apartment. That’s why addressing them early is vital.
Increased Sightings of Spiders
Seeing a spider here or there isn’t unusual, especially during certain seasons. But if you notice spiders regularly—especially multiple in one day—it could mean they’ve made themselves at home.
Pay attention to areas where you spot them the most. Bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and storage areas are common hangouts. Many spiders prefer dark, moist environments, so they might gather in spaces like under sinks or near windows.
Spider Droppings
Spider droppings might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but they’re another sign of an infestation. These droppings appear as small black or dark brown spots, often smeared. They might be found on walls, floors, or surfaces where spiders frequently travel or rest.
Spotting these marks in a specific area could point to a spider hiding nearby.
Dead Insects Around the Apartment
Spiders are natural hunters, so if you notice an unusual number of dead insects—especially near window sills, light fixtures, or corners—it might mean spiders are actively hunting in your space. They often leave behind bits of their prey after feeding.
This increase in spider prey might also suggest another pest issue, as spiders are drawn to areas with plenty of bugs. If you address the spider problem without tackling the insect issue, you might find the spiders returning before long.
Unusual Movement Patterns
Some spiders, such as wolf spiders, are known for their speed and agility. Unlike web-builders, these spiders actively hunt their prey, which means they’re often spotted scurrying across the floor or climbing walls. If you notice spiders darting quickly through your space, it’s a strong indicator that there might be more hiding nearby.
Spiders Appearing in Groups
While most spiders are solitary creatures, seeing several of them at once can be a red flag. This is especially true during mating season when males wander in search of females. If you’re spotting more spiders than usual, it’s worth investigating the potential hiding places where they could be gathering.
Unusual Activity Around Lights
Spiders often set up shop near light sources, as these attract other insects they feed on. Check areas like light fixtures, windows, or porch lights. If spiders or webs frequently appear near these spots, it could indicate they’ve chosen your home as a hunting ground.
Why Do Spiders Invade Apartments?
Spiders typically enter apartments for three reasons: shelter, food, and warmth. Here are some common factors that might attract them to your space:
An Abundance of Insects:
If you’re dealing with flies, mosquitoes, or other pests, spiders will see your home as a buffet.
Clutter:
Spiders love hiding in cluttered spaces like storage boxes, piles of clothes, or stacks of paper.
Openings and Cracks:
Tiny gaps around windows, doors, or vents make it easy for spiders to sneak inside.
Seasonal Changes:
As temperatures drop, spiders seek warm spots to settle, making your apartment a prime target during fall and winter.
How to Handle a Spider Infestation
If you’ve spotted some of the signs mentioned above, don’t panic. Here’s a step-by-step guide to managing the problem:
Declutter Regularly
Spiders love hiding in dark, quiet places. Cleaning out storage areas, closets, and under furniture removes these hiding spots.
Vacuum Often
Use a vacuum to remove webs, egg sacs, and even live spiders. Pay extra attention to corners, baseboards, and hard-to-reach areas.
Seal Entry Points
Check for gaps around doors, windows, and vents. Use caulk or weather stripping to seal these openings, preventing spiders and other pests from sneaking inside.
Reduce Other Insects
Since spiders hunt insects, reducing their food source will naturally make your apartment less appealing. Keep lights off when not needed, as they attract insects, and use screens to keep bugs out.
Use Sticky Traps
Sticky traps placed in high-activity areas can help catch wandering spiders. These traps are also useful for monitoring the severity of the infestation.
Maintain a Clean Environment
Keeping your apartment clean and free of food crumbs or moisture can deter not only spiders but also other pests.
While many DIY solutions can help, professional pest control is often the best way to handle a significant spider infestation. Services like Pest Share make it easy to tackle the problem without the hassle of figuring out who to call or how to schedule treatments.