Many people feel a natural apprehension when encountering spiders indoors. While some spiders do pose a threat, the majority found in homes are harmless. Understanding the specific risks associated with common indoor spiders, such as the brown house spider, can alleviate much of this concern. This helps differentiate between benign residents and those few species that require caution.
Identifying Brown House Spiders
Brown house spiders are typically medium-sized, with a body length ranging from about 0.2 to 0.4 inches (5 to 10 millimeters). Their leg span can be considerably larger, reaching up to 2 inches (50 millimeters). They exhibit a drab brown coloration, often with subtle patterns of darker brown or gray on their abdomens. Their legs are usually long and slender.
These spiders construct distinctive funnel-shaped webs in secluded, undisturbed locations. Common spots include corners of rooms, basements, attics, storage areas, and behind furniture. The web features a silken tube or retreat at one end where the spider rests, waiting for prey to become entangled in the wider, sheet-like portion of the web.
The Truth About Their Bite
Brown house spiders are generally not aggressive and prefer to avoid human contact. Bites are rare and typically occur only when the spider feels trapped or threatened, such as when accidentally pressed against skin, like when putting on clothing or reaching into a dark space. Their fangs are relatively small, making it difficult for them to penetrate human skin effectively.
When a bite does occur, symptoms are usually mild and localized. Individuals might experience a slight, temporary pain similar to a pinprick, followed by minor redness, a small bump, and mild itching at the bite site. These reactions are generally short-lived, resolving within a few hours to a day without medical intervention. The venom of the brown house spider is not considered medically significant to humans.
Spotting Dangerous Look-Alikes
Distinguishing brown house spiders from potentially dangerous species is important. The brown recluse spider is often confused with harmless brown spiders due to its color. However, the brown recluse is identifiable by a distinct violin-shaped marking on its back, with the neck of the violin pointing towards its abdomen. It also has six eyes arranged in pairs, unlike most spiders that have eight eyes.
The hobo spider shares a similar brown coloration but lacks distinct markings. While historically considered more dangerous, recent research suggests its bite effects are typically mild, similar to those of many other spiders. Geographic location is a key differentiator, as brown recluse spiders are primarily found in the central and south-central United States, and hobo spiders are more common in the Pacific Northwest. Proper identification helps assess any potential risk.
Living Alongside House Spiders
Managing spider populations in a home involves simple, non-toxic approaches. Regularly cleaning and vacuuming corners, basements, and other undisturbed areas can help remove webs and discourage spider habitation. Sealing cracks and crevices in foundations, windows, and doors can reduce entry points for spiders and the insects they prey upon. Reducing clutter in storage areas further limits suitable hiding spots.
Should a brown house spider bite occur, cleaning the bite area with soap and water is recommended. Applying a cold compress can help reduce any localized swelling or discomfort. Medical attention is generally not necessary for brown house spider bites. However, if symptoms worsen, signs of infection appear, or if there is uncertainty about the type of spider involved, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable.