How to Keep Spiders Out of Outside Boxes

Most spiders are harmless to humans.

Spiders are beneficial to have outside because they help eliminate common outdoor pests, such as flies, mites and fleas. Let's face it, though: you don't want a spider crawling across your hand unexpectedly while you're rummaging through a box. Spiders tend to migrate to areas that provide protection for them. By eliminating favorable migration spots and keeping the area around your outside storage boxes clean, you can go a long way toward preventing the creepy crawlers from making a home alongside your stored treasures.

Things You'll Need

• Broom
• High-pressure hose
• Duct tape

Instructions

1. Move boxes away from rocks, piles of leaves, old boards or compost bins. Spiders love these types of hiding places. Choose a relatively clear spot outside to store your boxes.

2. Clean the area around your boxes regularly. Use a broom or high-pressure water hose to remove spider webs and eggs.

3. Tape the seams of cardboard storage boxes with duct tape to prevent spiders from making their way inside. Cover the bottom, side and top seams. If you need to access the box's contents regularly, consider switching to plastic, lidded storage boxes.

References

• Ohio State University Extension; Spiders In and Around the House; Susan C. Jones, Ph.D.
• Colorado State University Extension; Spiders in the Home; F.B. Peairs, W.S. Cranshaw and P.E. Cushing; Dec. 2008