How to Keep Spiders Out of Your Basement

Eliminate moisture, seal entry points, remove clutter, and use natural deterrents like peppermint oil to create an environment spiders won't want to inhabit.

1. Dry It Out First. Run a dehumidifier to keep humidity below 50%. Fix any leaks in pipes, windows, or foundation walls. Ensure proper ventilation by cleaning out dryer vents and installing exhaust fans if needed. Spiders thrive in damp environments, so controlling moisture is your first line of defense.
2. Block All Entry Routes. Walk around your basement and identify gaps around windows, doors, pipes, and foundation walls. Use caulk for small cracks and expanding foam for larger gaps. Pay special attention to where utility lines enter the house. Install weatherstripping around basement doors and windows.
3. Remove Spider Sanctuaries. Remove cardboard boxes, old furniture, and piles of stored items that spiders use for shelter. Store necessary items in sealed plastic containers rather than cardboard. Keep storage areas organized with clear pathways. Move firewood and outdoor equipment away from basement walls.
4. Vacuum Away Webs Now. Use a vacuum with a hose attachment to remove all visible webs, focusing on corners, ceiling joints, and behind equipment. Look for small, round egg sacs and vacuum these too. Empty the vacuum bag immediately after cleaning to prevent spiders from escaping back into your basement.
5. Harness Peppermint Power. Mix 10-15 drops of peppermint essential oil with water in a spray bottle and apply around windows, doors, and corners. Spiders dislike strong scents. Alternatively, place cotton balls soaked in peppermint oil in problem areas. Reapply every few weeks or when the scent fades.
6. Kill Spider Food Sources. Turn off unnecessary outdoor lights near basement windows, as these attract insects that spiders feed on. Trim vegetation away from foundation walls. Remove debris like leaves and mulch from around basement window wells. Keep the area around your foundation clean and dry.
7. Lock Them Out Permanently. Add fine mesh screens to basement vents and windows. Install door sweeps on exterior basement doors. Consider applying diatomaceous earth around the perimeter of your basement as a natural barrier that spiders won't cross.