Scared Of All Those Cobwebs? Here's What You Can Do

Cobwebs might make for a spooky Halloween decoration, but finding them in your home throughout the year can be even more frightening. Cobwebs can make any room of the house appear unclean and unkempt. If you're noticing cobwebs in your room corners, attic, basement, or garage, you're undoubtedly anxious to get rid of them. But is there a way to prevent them from appearing in the first place? Below, we'll review some common tips for cleaning and preventing cobwebs in your home.

What Exactly Are Cobwebs?
Cobwebs are an abandoned collection of sticky thread spun by a common house spider, also known as "cobweb spiders." Unlike traditional spiderwebs, which follow a symmetrical pattern, webs spun by house spiders tend to appear as a chaotic mess. Regardless, all spider webs serve the same purpose — to capture insects as prey. House spiders make their way inside through cracks, nooks, and crannies. They often come indoors in an attempt to escape the cold weather, so fall is the best time to start taking proactive measures.

Because cobwebs are so sticky, they often collect hair, dust, debris, and unwanted particles. As a result, it's important to remove them as soon as you can.

How To Clean Cobwebs
Luckily, cleaning cobwebs is relatively easy. They typically appear in room corners or near windows, as these are areas where house spiders like to hang out and capture insects. Use a vacuum cleaner hose or a duster with a long handle to reach the corners of your rooms. If cobwebs develop on furniture, clothing, or carpet, a simple lint roller can work as well. Just be sure to wash the fabric after removing the cobwebs.

How To Keep Spiders Outside
Preventing cobwebs is as simple or as difficult as preventing spiders from entering your home in the first place. Below are some ideas to help keep them outside:

• Block Their Access - Spiders come in through cracks, windows, doors, or any small opening in your home. To keep them out, you'll need to block their access. Add caulking to your window, seal any gaps underneath your front door, and use insect screens where possible.
• Use Scents - Spiders typically steer clear of certain smells. If you have a major cobweb problem, apply light dabs of lemon, peppermint, or cinnamon scents to areas where your spiders like to frequent.
• Minimize Clutter - Spiders like to take cover and build their webs in dark, protected areas. Eliminating clutter can help to remove their favorite hiding spaces. Keep your basement organized, and make sure to empty your trash and recycling regularly.
• Tend To Your Landscaping - Spiders love to make their home in shrubs, plants, or grass clippings. Try to keep the areas around your home clean and free of debris. Avoid keeping potted plants near your windows.

Remember, spiders do have benefits as they help to capture and eat other pests and insects, so try not to kill them. By keeping them outside of the house, you can limit those pesky cobwebs and maintain a nice, clean home.

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