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Are Spiders Around the Home Really That Bad?

Updated: Oct 7, 2024

Despite their significant role in controlling pest populations, people just don’t want spiders in or around their home. Here are the main concerns associated with having spiders around:

  • Health Risks

    • Venomous Species: Certain spiders, like the black widow and brown recluse found here in Arkansas, are venomous and pose a health risk if they bite. Their bites can require medical attention, leading to serious health complications.

    • Bite Reactions: While most spiders are harmless, bites can still occur, leading to symptoms ranging from mild swelling to severe allergic reactions. Infections may also arise if a bite becomes contaminated.

  • Infestation Potential

    • Rapid Reproduction: Spiders can reproduce quickly; a single female can produce hundreds of eggs, leading to a potential infestation in a short time. This rapid increase can make them difficult to control.

    • Hard to Catch: Their speed and ability to hide in hard-to-reach areas complicate efforts to manage their population within the home.

  • Aesthetic Concerns

    • Webs and Debris: Spider webs can accumulate dust and dirt, contributing to an unkempt appearance. This accumulation can also affect indoor air quality and trigger allergies. Many people associate spider webs with poor housekeeping, which can be off-putting.

  • Psychological Factors

    • Fear and Discomfort: Many individuals have a natural aversion or fear of spiders (arachnophobia). It can be a fear of a spider getting on their clothes, on their body or in their hair … or even the fear of walking into a spider web.  Just knowing of their presence can create an unsettling atmosphere in the home.



While spiders do provide benefits by controlling other pest populations, these concerns and risks lead many to think ‘Yes, spiders are that bad!’ Having regularly scheduled pest control can keep these unwanted pests under control in your home or business.


Learn more about our pest control services.

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