Common Spider Myths (and What’s Actually True)

Many people fear spiders because they’re often portrayed as poisonous, aggressive, and out to bite anyone nearby. In reality, most spiders you see in Boise-area homes aren’t dangerous to people or pets—and many quietly help by eating other insects.

Understanding what’s true (and what isn’t) makes it easier to know when to relax, when to take action, and when to call in a professional.

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Myth #1: Every Spider Makes a Web

It’s easy to assume all spiders spin big, obvious webs—because webs are what people notice first.

What’s actually true:

• Only some species build large, visible webs.
• Many spiders are hunters that chase, ambush, or stalk prey instead of relying on webbing.
• Some spiders make small, hidden webs in cracks or corners that you may not notice.

So if you’re seeing spiders without lots of webbing, it doesn’t mean they’re “hiding webs.” It may just be a hunting species.

Myth #2: If It Has 8 Legs, It’s a Spider

“Six legs = insect” and “eight legs = spider” is only partly true. Spiders are arachnids, and that group includes:

• Scorpions
• Harvestmen (“daddy longlegs” in the non-spider sense)
• Ticks and mites

Also, spiders can lose a leg due to predators or accidents—so not every spider will appear perfectly “eight-legged.” Bottom line: leg count alone isn’t a reliable way to identify what you’re looking at.

Myth #3: All Spiders Are Venomous and Dangerous to Humans

Many spiders have venom used to subdue prey—usually tiny insects—not to harm people.

What’s more accurate:

• Most spider venom is not medically significant to humans.
• Even when bites happen, many cause only mild, localized irritation.
• More serious reactions are uncommon and typically involve specific species and situations.

If you’re ever concerned about a bite—especially if you have trouble breathing, rapidly worsening symptoms, spreading redness, or significant swelling—seek medical care promptly.

Myth #4: Spiders Are Always Aggressive

Most spiders avoid people. When disturbed, they’re more likely to freeze, retreat, or hide than “attack.”

• They often hide in cracks, corners, storage areas, and quiet rooms.
• Bites usually happen when a spider is trapped against skin (shoes, clothing, bedding).

A calm approach helps: shake out shoes, gloves, and stored clothing; avoid grabbing spiders with bare hands; and remove them safely or call a professional if needed.

Myth #5: More Spiders Means Your Home Is Filthy

Spiders are attracted to prey, not dirt. If you have lots of flies, gnats, moths, or other insects, spiders may follow the food.

• Outdoor lighting can attract insects—and indirectly attract spiders near doors and windows.
• Basements, garages, and storage rooms are common because they’re dark, quiet, and rarely disturbed.

Good housekeeping helps reduce webbing and hiding spots, but even clean homes can see spider activity—especially in fall when temperatures drop.

Myth #6: The Best Way to Get Rid of Spiders Is to Spray Everything

Spraying every surface is rarely necessary—and it can be risky if products are misused. A more practical approach usually works better:

Step 1: Reduce What Attracts Spiders

• Turn off unnecessary exterior lights or switch to bulbs that attract fewer insects.
• Reduce clutter in garages, basements, and storage rooms.
• Vacuum corners, behind furniture, and along baseboards to remove webs and egg sacs.

Step 2: Seal Entry Points

• Seal gaps around doors and windows with weatherstripping or caulk.
• Repair torn screens on windows, doors, and vents.
• Seal cracks and crevices where spiders and other insects enter.

Step 3: Use Targeted Control (Not “Wall-to-Wall” Spray)

• If using store-bought products, follow the label exactly.
• Focus on cracks, crevices, and exterior entry points—not open living surfaces.
• Never spray products on people, pets, or bedding.

For homeowners who want a more hands-off, long-term solution, professional pest control can reduce spider activity while also addressing the insects spiders feed on.

Myth #7: You Should Never Call a Professional for Spiders

DIY can work for occasional spiders, but professional help can make sense when:

• You’re seeing a high number of spiders or webs throughout the home
• Family members have strong fears or concerns
• You’re not sure what type of spider you’re dealing with
• You’ve cleaned and sealed, but activity keeps returning

If you’d like help reducing spider activity in the Treasure Valley, Pestcom Pest Management offers pest control services tailored to local homes and seasonal pressure.

How to Reduce Spiders in and Around Your Home

Use this checklist when spider activity increases (often late summer through fall):

• Outdoors: Remove webbing from eaves, porch ceilings, and around entry doors; trim vegetation away from the foundation.
• Indoors: Vacuum webs from corners, ceiling junctions, and behind furniture.
• Storage: Use sealed plastic bins instead of open cardboard in basements and garages.
• Lights: Reduce bright exterior lighting near doors and windows when practical.
• Entry points: Seal cracks, gaps, and torn screens where insects and spiders enter.

If spiders are making you uncomfortable in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, or nearby communities, a combination of simple prevention steps and a professional plan can help reduce activity and restore peace of mind.