Removal of a Spider in a House

Removing a spider from your home does not have to be a traumatic experience.

Spiders may look creepy, but they are actually beneficial to man. They feed on insects, mites and even other spiders. Their benefits outweigh the dangers they represent to humans. Some people cannot bear to crush a spider and simply want it outside the safety of their home. You can remove a spider quickly by using a humane method. It is important to remember that the spider is more afraid of you then you are of it.

Things You'll Need

• Clear glass jar
• Stiff piece of paper
• Jar lid or other object (optional)
• Magnifying glass (optional)
• Book about spiders (optional)
• Vacuum and attachments (optional)

Instructions

1. Hold the clear glass jar or cup up over the spider and carefully place the opening around its entire body. Use a jar that is large enough to trap it without catching one of its legs with the rim.

2. Lift the jar slightly -- only enough so the stiff paper can slide underneath it. The spider will move its legs to get on top of the paper. The paper traps the spider inside, and you are safe.

3. Hold the paper firmly against the opening of the glass and lift both the jar and paper up at the same time. Do not allow gaps when lifting the paper, as the spider could escape.

4. Turn the jar or glass over so that you can hold the paper easily on top of the jar.

5. Carry the jar outside and place it on its side. Remove the paper. The spider will crawl out within a few minutes. You may have to tilt the jar and shake it a bit to encourage the spider to leave the jar.

Tips & Warnings

• If the spider is in its web, place the lid of the jar, a stick or other object behind the web. Touch the spider gently with the object while putting the jar close to the web. The spider will crawl into the jar in order to escape the lid or other object. Cover the jar with the paper and take it outside.

• Examine the spider carefully while it is in the jar. You may need a magnifying glass to check for markings or other distinguishing features that allow you to identify it. Look through books about spiders or search online to identify it. This is an effective way to find out whether it is poisonous.

• Use a vacuum attachment to get rid of any spiders or webs inside your home quickly. It is a wise idea to dispose of the vacuum bag in your outside garbage cans just in case the spider is still alive or poisonous.

References

• Washington State University Extension: Spiders