Many people are concerned about household spiders, especially those referred to as “red house spiders.” Understanding their identification and potential threat can help alleviate anxieties and inform how to manage their presence.
Recognizing Red House Spiders
The term “red house spider” commonly refers to the species Nesticodes rufipes. These spiders typically display a reddish-brown coloration across their body and legs, often with a rounded, globe-shaped abdomen that can have spots. Adult females are generally larger than males, measuring approximately 0.2 to 0.3 inches in body length. Another spider that might be perceived as a “red house spider” is the woodlouse spider (Dysdera crocata), characterized by its dark red or orange body contrasting with a grayish-white abdomen.
These spiders construct tangled, messy web structures that appear haphazardly arranged. These webs can be found in various undisturbed areas within a home, including dark corners, basements, attics, and even inside cupboards and pantries. Woodlouse spiders, however, do not build complex webs for hunting; instead, they typically rest under wood and clutter during the day, preferring damp environments. Observing the web type and specific body characteristics can help distinguish between different spider species found indoors.
Assessing Their Threat
Many common household spiders, including the Nesticodes rufipes and woodlouse spiders, are generally not considered dangerous to humans. While nearly all spiders possess venom to subdue their prey, the venom of these species is typically not potent enough to cause serious medical issues for people. Bites from these spiders are uncommon and usually occur only if the spider feels threatened or its web is disturbed. Such defensive bites are rarely a cause for significant concern.
Should a bite occur, symptoms are typically mild and localized to the bite area. Individuals might experience minor irritation, localized pain, redness, and some swelling. Severe reactions are infrequent, with most people experiencing minimal discomfort. For basic first aid, cleaning the bite area thoroughly with soap and water is recommended, followed by applying ice to help reduce any swelling.
It is important to monitor the bite for any changes. Medical attention may be warranted if symptoms worsen, such as increasing redness that spreads, significant pain, or signs of a possible infection like fever, chills, or body aches. Additionally, if an allergic reaction develops, indicated by symptoms like hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, immediate medical care should be sought.
Keeping Them Out
Preventing spiders from entering and residing in your home involves several practical steps. Sealing potential entry points is a primary defense, which includes caulking cracks and crevices around windows, doors, and the foundation of your house. Installing weatherstripping around doors and repairing any holes in window or door screens can further block access. These measures help to exclude not only spiders but also other insects that serve as their food source.
Maintaining a tidy indoor and outdoor environment also helps deter spiders. Regularly cleaning and decluttering your home reduces the number of hiding spots available to them, and vacuuming frequently removes existing webs and egg sacs. Outside, managing vegetation close to the house, such as trimming shrubs and keeping woodpiles away from the foundation, eliminates sheltered areas where spiders might live and from which they can easily enter. Reducing the overall insect population in and around your home by addressing other pest issues can also make your residence less appealing to spiders, as they seek out areas with abundant prey. Some natural deterrents, such as essential oils like peppermint, or the scent of citrus or vinegar, can be used in sprays around entry points, as spiders tend to avoid these smells.