Is a redback spider infestation becoming a problem in your home? These eight-legged pests can cause concern for Aussie families. Redback spiders are found throughout Australia and prefer dry, dark spots.
This blog will show you how to quickly eliminate a redback spider infestation. Continue reading to keep your home safe from these dangerous biters.
Key Takeaways
- Redback spiders like dry, dark spots and can be found all over Australia.
- Look for shiny black spiders with red stripes, messy webs up to 50 cm wide, and egg sacs.
- Clean outdoor areas often, remove webs and egg sacs, and check personal items to control spiders.
- Use products like Yates Long Term Control Barrier Spray to keep redbacks away for up to 12 months inside.
- For big problems, hiring pros like RedBackSpider.com may work better than doing it yourself.
Identify Redback Spider Infestation
Identifying a redback spider infestation is crucial for managing these dangerous arachnids. Look for shiny black spiders with red stripes on their backs. Female redbacks can grow up to 1 cm long, while males are smaller and light brown.
Check for messy webs that can stretch 50 cm wide and often touch the ground.
Watch for egg sacs that start yellow or white and turn brown over time. You might also see tiny spiderlings, dead redbacks, or spider droppings. These indicators suggest an active redback presence in your space.
Prompt action is essential to control these venomous spiders and maintain a safe environment.
Clean Outdoor Furniture and Surroundings
Maintaining clean outdoor areas is essential for preventing redback spiders. Regular cleaning of outdoor furniture and spaces helps deter these pests from establishing habitats near your home.
- Sweep decks and patios regularly to remove spider webs and eggs
- Clean outdoor chairs, tables, and benches with soapy water weekly
- Position pot plants away from walls to reduce hiding spots for spiders
- Trim bushes and trees near the house to minimise spider habitats
- Remove piles of wood, bricks, or other items spiders prefer for hiding
- Use a garden hose to spray outdoor surfaces and remove spiders
- Inspect and clean BBQ grills, as spiders often shelter inside them
- Clean outdoor light fixtures where spiders construct webs
- Remove cobwebs from eaves, window frames, and door frames
- Keep bins clean and sealed to prevent spiders from inhabiting them
- Organise kids’ outdoor toys that could harbour spiders
- Clean gutters to prevent leaves and debris accumulation
- Seal gaps in outdoor furniture where spiders might shelter
- Use outdoor storage boxes to keep items elevated
- Apply natural spider repellents like peppermint oil to outdoor areas
Remove Webs and Egg Sacs
Redback spiders show clear signs of their presence. Removing webs and egg sacs is essential for controlling these pests.
- Disrupt spider webs with a broom or vacuum. Webs can extend up to 50 cm wide.
- Search for funnel-shaped webs in corners and dark areas. These are typical redback spider dwellings.
- Inspect outdoor furniture and clean it regularly. Spiders often hide under chairs and tables.
- Eliminate egg sacs as soon as you notice them. They begin yellow or white and turn brown over time.
- Use a dustpan and brush to collect webs and sacs. Place them in a sealed bag before disposing.
- Apply vinegar to web locations to deter spiders from returning. The odour repels them.
- Use gloves when cleaning to protect yourself from bites. Redbacks may be hiding in their webs.
- Clean elevated corners and ceiling edges with a long-handled duster. Spiders frequently build webs in high places.
- Examine window frames and door frames for webs. These are common spots for redbacks.
- Use a torch to inspect dark areas for webs. Sheds and garages require extra attention.
Inspect Personal Items and Storage Areas
After removing webs and egg sacs, it’s essential to inspect your personal items and storage areas. Redback spiders often conceal themselves in these locations, so a comprehensive check is crucial.
- Examine shoes before wearing them. Redbacks prefer dark, snug spots.
- Inspect clothes, particularly those in storage. Shake out items before use.
- Check furniture, both indoor and outdoor. Pay special attention to corners and crevices.
- Examine storage boxes and containers. Use sealed plastic bins to prevent spiders from entering.
- Refrain from stacking items against walls. This reduces potential hiding spots for spiders.
- Clean out cupboards and drawers regularly. Remove clutter to minimise spider habitats.
- Inspect garden tools and sports equipment. Redbacks may nest in handles or pockets.
- Check children’s toys, especially those kept outside. Clean them before use.
- Examine books and papers in storage. Redbacks may hide between pages.
- Inspect curtains and blinds. Spiders can hide in folds and corners.
Regular Home Maintenance
Regular home maintenance is essential for preventing redback spiders. These straightforward steps can assist in safeguarding your home from infestations:
- Repair holes and cracks in walls and floors. Spiders can enter through small openings, so it’s important to seal them.
- Keep doors closed when not in use. This prevents spiders from entering easily.
- Reduce outdoor lighting. Bright lights attract insects, which in turn attract spiders.
- Apply insecticide twice a year in problem areas. Yates Long Term Control Barrier Spray is effective for this purpose.
- Remove clutter from storage spaces. Redbacks prefer to hide in disorganised areas.
- Prune plants near your house. Overgrown gardens provide spiders with easy access to your home.
- Inspect and clean outdoor furniture regularly. Redbacks often nest in chairs and tables.
- Remove cobwebs inside and outside. This eliminates spiders and their eggs.
- Maintain a tidy yard. Clear away piles of wood, rocks, or leaves where spiders might reside.
- Repair leaky taps and pipes. Damp areas attract insects, which subsequently attract spiders.
Understanding Redback Spider Infestations in the Home
Redback spiders prefer warm, dark areas in homes. They frequently inhabit outdoor furniture, sheds, and garages. These arachnids are most active during nighttime and in warmer seasons.
They seldom leave their webs unless disturbed. Redbacks can survive without food for up to 100 days, making them resilient pests to eliminate.
Understanding redback behaviour aids in managing them. They’re not always aggressive, but their bite is venomous. It’s crucial to exercise caution when moving items where they might conceal themselves.
Daddy Long Leg spiders and White-Tailed spiders are natural predators of redbacks. This information can be valuable in pest control strategies. We’ll now examine some practical tips and tools for managing redback spiders.
Supplementary Tips and Tools
For additional tips on managing redback spiders, see our supplementary resources section. It’s full of useful information to help control these troublesome arachnids.
Recommended Products for Redback spider infestation
Yates Long Term Control Barrier Spray is an excellent choice for redback spider control. It protects your home for up to 12 months inside and 3 months outside. For rapid results, consider PestXpert Spider Blast Eliminator.
It’s effective on edges and spider habitats. If you prefer a convenient spray option, Yates 2L Home Pest Long Term Control Barrier Spray is a good choice. It’s priced at $29.82 and ready for immediate use.
For outdoor areas, PestXpert Pro Spray Outdoor Perimeter is highly effective. These products are effective in keeping redback spiders away from your property.
How to Prevent Future Redback spider infestation
After applying appropriate products, you can prevent redback spiders from returning. To achieve this, repair any openings or gaps in your home. These may be present in walls, windows, or doors.
Install flyscreens and door seals as well. This prevents spiders from entering.
Subsequently, tidy up your yard. Remove accumulations of wood, leaves, and other debris. Spiders often seek shelter in these areas. Don’t overlook indoor plants. Apply safe pesticides to them to deter pests.
By implementing these measures, you reduce the appeal of your home to redback spiders. It’s an effective method to discourage their return.
Comparison Table: DIY Methods vs. Professional Pest Control
Choosing between DIY methods and professional pest control for redback spider infestations can be challenging. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Aspect | DIY Methods | Professional Pest Control |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower initial cost (e.g. Yates spray at $29.82) | Higher upfront cost, but may be more cost-effective long-term |
| Effectiveness | Can work for small infestations | More thorough for large or persistent infestations |
| Time Investment | Requires personal time and effort | Saves time, experts handle the job |
| Expertise | Relies on personal knowledge | Brings professional experience and skills |
| Safety | Potential risks if not done correctly | Trained professionals ensure safe application |
| Long-term Prevention | May need repeated treatments | Often includes ongoing prevention strategies |
For severe infestations, professional services like those from RedBackSpider.com might provide better results. They offer expert knowledge and tools to address the problem effectively.
Conclusion
Eliminating redback spiders requires effort, but the results are valuable. Following proper steps helps maintain a home free from these pests. Regular cleaning, thorough inspections of belongings, and addressing potential habitats are essential.
Remain vigilant and respond promptly to any indications of redback presence. Your diligence will result in a spider-free home, ensuring safety for everyone.
FAQs
1. How do I spot a redback spider infestation in my home?
Look for webs in dark, quiet spots… like under outdoor furniture or in shed corners. These arachnids love warm, dry places. You might see egg sacs too – they’re small, round, and white. If you spot one redback, there’s likely more lurking about.
2. What’s the safest way to get rid of redbacks?
First up, clear the clutter. These eight-legged critters love messy areas. Then, grab a spray made just for spiders. Apply it where you’ve seen webs or the spiders themselves. For a natural fix, try peppermint oil mixed with water. Spray it around – redbacks hate the smell.
3. Should I call in the pros to deal with Redback spider infestation?
If you’ve got a big problem on your hands, yeah, ring up the experts. They’ve got stronger stuff and know all the tricks. Plus, they can help prevent future issues. It’s worth the coin if you’re dealing with lots of these venomous little blighters.
4. How can I stop redbacks from coming back?
Keep your yard tidy, mate. Seal up cracks in walls and foundations. Use screens on windows and doors. Remove webs as soon as you spot ’em. And here’s a top tip: redbacks don’t like moving air, so pop a fan in problem areas. Regular checks and quick action are key to keeping these unwanted guests away.
