Spider Season in the Seattle Area: Why They’re Invading and How to Keep Them Out
From Everett to Bothell, Snohomish to Woodinville, many Seattle homeowners notice more spiders creeping around their houses. It’s a familiar pattern, you’re suddenly spotting long-legged house spiders in the corners, or maybe you walk face-first into a web on your porch. But why does this happen every year, and what can you do about it? Let’s tackle some myths and share practical spider prevention tips.
Why Spiders Invade in the Fall
Contrary to the popular myth, spiders aren’t crawling inside because they’re cold and looking for warmth. In fact, most of the spiders you see indoors have always been there, they just become more noticeable in late summer and fall because it’s mating season.
Male house spiders, especially the common giant house spider, start moving around more as they search for females. That’s why you’ll suddenly see them on your floors, walls, and ceilings. Outdoor spiders may also wander closer to your home in search of food or shelter as the weather changes.
Are House Spiders Dangerous?
The good news, most house spiders in Seattle are harmless. They don’t want to bite you, and many actually help control other insects inside your home. That said, few people enjoy sharing their living spaces with them, especially when their numbers seem to increase in the fall.
Spider Prevention Tips for Seattle Homes
If you’d rather admire spiders from a distance (like outside in the garden) these spider prevention tips work whether you’re in Kenmore, Lake Stevens, or Monroe. Here are some easy ways to reduce fall spider invasions:
- Seal entry points: Check windows, doors, and siding for gaps where spiders and their insect prey can get in.
- Reduce outdoor lighting: Lights attract insects, and insects attract spiders. Switch to yellow “bug lights” or keep lights off when not needed.
- Clear clutter: Cardboard boxes, laundry piles, and storage bins create hiding spots for spiders indoors.
- Vacuum webs and egg sacs: Regular cleaning disrupts spider populations before they grow.
- Control other pests: If you have lots of flies, ants, or other bugs, spiders will follow. Treating the source pests helps reduce spider activity.
When to Call a Professional
If your home feels like it’s hosting an entire spider colony, or if webs return immediately after you clean, it may be time to bring in pest control. At Snohomish Pest Control, we use safe, effective treatments that not only target spiders but also the insects they feed on, giving you long-term relief.
Final Thoughts
Spider season in Seattle is a natural part of fall, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with an invasion. By sealing up entry points, reducing clutter, and keeping up with pest control, you can keep your home spider-free and comfortable all year long.
Want year-round protection from spiders and other pests? Our Healthy Home Plan provides regular inspections and treatments so your home stays comfortable, safe, and pest-free in every season.