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By: Zachary Smith Last Updated: December 29th, 2023
Zach hand-picks and recommends every product we feature. When you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
Have spiders invaded your property?
In this blog, we share our top product recommendations for the best spider control treatments on the market, including repellents, contact sprays, insecticides, and natural eco friendly alternatives.
As licensed pest control pros, we’ve helped homes get rid of spider issues for the past 20 years, and we’ve really put these products to the test.
Trust us, they work wonders!
Runner Up | Most Eco-Friendly | |
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Summary: A highly effective, safe, and long-lasting microencapsulated insecticide that kills spiders, scorpions, co*ckroaches, mosquitoes, and 200+ other insects. | Summary: An easy-to-use aerosol insecticide spray that kills spiders and other pests on contact and is perfect for spot treatments. | Summary: A highly effective, all natural botanical insecticide that kills spiders and provides protection against a wide range of crawling and flying insects. |
4.8 | 4.5 | 4.5 |
Best Overall
Summary:
A highly effective, safe, and long-lasting microencapsulated insecticide that kills spiders, scorpions, co*ckroaches, mosquitoes, and 200+ other insects.
4.8
Runner Up
Summary:
An easy-to-use aerosol insecticide spray that kills spiders and other pests on contact and is perfect for spot treatments.
4.5
Most Eco-Friendly
Summary:
A highly effective, all natural botanical insecticide that kills spiders and provides protection against a wide range of crawling and flying insects.
4.5
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall:
- Runner Up:CB-80 Contact Aerosol
- Most Eco-friendly:EcoVia EC by Rockwell Labs
- Runner Up Eco-Friendly:Natural Guard Diatomaceous Earth
- Best for Outdoors:Nisus Web Out Cobweb Eliminator
- Best Value:Nature-Cide All Purpose Insecticide Spray
Best Overall
Onslaught FastCap Spider and Scorpion Insecticide (1 Pint)
Type: Microencapsulated Insecticide
Key ingredient(s): esfenvalerate, piperonyl butoxide (PBO)
Also good for: Kills spiders, co*ckroaches, mosquitos,scorpions and 200+ other insects
Onslaught® FastCap Spider & Scorpion Insecticide is our top pick because it acts fast and provides unparalleled killing power combined with long-lasting, residual protection against spiders and other pests, including scorpions, mosquitos, and fleas.
We love this product so much because it’s microencapsulated, which allows it to stick to a spider’s body more effectively than other treatments. This results in more efficient spider elimination and better results for you.
It’s safe for indoor and outdoor use and is suitable for use as a broadcast treatment option. It dries quickly and will render your home a spider-free zone.
Our Experience
When we tested this product in our homes, we found that it emitted a slightly sweet odor and rapidly killed spiders on contact and also ones that were hiding in cracks and crevices.
How to Use
Mix 0.5 fl oz of Onslaught FastCap Spider & Scorpion Insecticide in a gallon of water. Add ½ the required water to the spray tank, then add the insecticide. Agitate the mixture, and add the remainder of the water. Apply to cracks and crevices as a surface or spot treatment.
Effectiveness:
5.0
Safety:
4.5
Ease of Use:
4.5
Pros:
- Suitable for use both indoors and outdoors
- Highly effective (sticks to and kills spiders instantly)
- Effective against 200+ other insects
- Dries clear
- No need for re-application after rain
- Long lasting (90 days indoors, 30 days outdoors)
- Easy, one-step approach to general pest control
Cons:
- Should not be sprayed on surfaces that can be stained by water
- Pet and child-safe only once the treated area has dried
- Does not instantly kill insects (once the formula dries, it can take up to 24 hours to kill insects that come into contact with the treated surface)
- Not organic or natural, is toxic to fish and marine life
Runner Up
CB 80 Aerosol Insecticide
Type: Synergized Pyrethrin Aerosol Flushing and Contact Insecticide
Key ingredient(s): Piperonyl butoxide, Pyrethrins
Also good for: Kills fleas, bedbugs, silverfish, ants, co*ckroaches, spiders, and 20+ other pests.
When it comes to ease of use, CB 80 Contact Aerosol is tough to beat. The convenient aerosol formula and applicator nozzle allows for precise, no-mess application. At the same time, the powerful ingredients ensure fast knockdown and kill for various pests, including spiders, co*ckroaches, mosquitos, wasps, gnats, ants, silverfish, and many more.
Our Experience
When we tested this product in our own homes, we found that it was easy to use and killed spiders quickly. The precise applicator allows for easy crack and crevice application and targeted spot treatments where spiders tend to hide.
How to Use
Shake the aerosol can gently to prepare the formula. Extend the applicator hose, aim directly at the insect, and spray the formula onto the insect. For crack and crevice application, spray the formula into hiding places, coating thoroughly. Keep the area closed for 15 minutes after application.
Effectiveness:
5.0
Safety:
4.0
Ease of Use:
4.5
Pros:
- Highly effective as a contact spray – kills spiders on contact
- Effective against 20+ other insects
- No residual effect, which means no insecticide buildup
- Mess-free, easy-to-use formula
- Safe for use in homes both indoors and outdoors
- Pet safe if used as directed
- Safer for the environment – contains no CFS or ozone-depleting ingredients
Cons:
- Does contain chemicals like piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrins
- Should not be used on painted, plastic, or varnished surfaces or directly on electronic equipment
- Does not work as a perimeter treatment
- Toxic to bees as well as fish and marine life
- Applicators must wear PPE to apply
Most Eco-Friendly
Rockwell Labs EVEC016 EcoVia EC Botanical Pesticide (16oz)
Type: Broad-spectrum liquid botanical oil insecticide
Key ingredient(s): Thyme Oil – 20.0% 2-Phenethyl Propionate – 14.0% Rosemary Oil – 8.0%
Also good for: Spiders, ants, biting flies, beetles, co*ckroaches, fruit flies, and more
EcoVia EC is a research-based FIFRA 25(b) liquid botanical oil insecticide that contains essential oil to kill flying, sucking, and crawling insects. Because it is made from essential oils, this product is safe for application in and around homes and businesses, near and over water, and in numerous other areas. It’s also safe for use in homes with children and pets.
Our Experience
When we tested this product in our own homes, we found it easy to dilute and use and highly effective at killing target pests. It is easy to apply to trees, shrubs, and vegetation. We also loved that it works as a perimeter, fogger, or spot treatment.
How to Use
Mix between 1-4 ounces (depending upon application site and target insect) of EcoVia EC into a gallon of water and use a sprayer to apply. See the product label for more specific instructions.
Effectiveness:
4.5
Safety:
5.0
Pros:
- Kills spiders and other pests on contact
- Natural, non-toxic, eco-friendly
- Safe for use around kids and pets when applied properly
- Kills a wide variety of insects
- Suitable for indoor, outdoor, and marine-area use
- Gentle on application equipment
- Available for all 50 states
Cons:
- Dilution concentrations are different depending on which pests you’re targeting
- Strong essential oils smell, which may be unpleasant for some
- More expensive than some other formulas
Runner Up Eco-Friendly
Natural Guard Diatomaceous Earth Insect Control
Type: Natural spider-killing powder
Key ingredient(s): 85% Diatomaceous earth (DE)
Also good for: Kills co*ckroaches, fleas, earwigs, silverfish, centipedes, millipedes,bed bugs, and 20+ other pests.
If you want a completely natural, non-toxic spider killer that works, Natural Guard Diatomaceous Earth is a good choice. A natural substance available in food-grade varieties, diatomaceous earth (DE) is made from the fossilized remains of diatoms: microscopic aquatic organisms.
As a pest killer, DE works without chemicals. Instead, it permeates and dehydrates the delicate exoskeletons of insects and spiders, killing them within 48 hours of contact. It’s also long-lasting as long as it’s present and dry – in the attic or wall void, it could last as long as 10 years!
Unlike chemical-based products, DE is safe for humans, domestic pets, kids, and non-target mammals. Unlike products that contain essential oils, it does not stain, which makes it safe for use on most surfaces.
Our Experience
When we tested this product in our homes, we found that it was actually easy to apply with a bulbous duster that pushed the product out into small cracks and crevices. It did not make a mess.
How to Use
Sprinkle a generous line of DE into cracks and crevices or as a boundary around any area you’d like to protect. Reapply after windy conditions, heavy rain, or outdoor watering.
Effectiveness:
4.0
Safety:
5.0
Ease of Use:
3.5
Pros:
- Long lasting
- Safe, non-toxic, can be used around kids and pets
- Odorless
- Non-staining
- Safe to use on all surfaces
- Effective for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Eco-friendly – won’t harm waterways, soil, or the natural environment.
Cons:
- Can be messy to apply
- Requires application with a bulbous or power duster
- Product only works as long as it’s present and dry
- Frequent application is required in windy or rainy environment
Best for the Outdoors
Nisus Web Out
Type: EPA 25(b) exempt minimum risk pesticide
Key ingredient(s): Thyme oil, lemongrass oil, citronella, sodium lauryl sulfate
Also good for: Kills spiders, ants, crickets, mosquitos and other pests.
Looking for an eco-friendly spider killer that actually works? Look no further than Nisus Web Out. Made from a proprietary blend of vinegar and essential oils, Nisus Web Out kills spiders on contact. It also creates a protective surface film that helps prevent spider webs from sticking to treated surfaces in the future. When applied correctly, the formula creates a barrier that keeps spiders outside your home.
Like the other products on this list, Web Out can also work as a contact pesticide and is effective at killing crickets, mosquitos, ants, co*ckroaches, and other pest species.
Because Web Out contains essential oils, which can stain porous surfaces, this product should only be used outdoors in areas such as railings and under eaves. It should not be used on vinyl siding, concrete, plastic, untreated wood, or surfaces painted with semi-gloss or flat paint.
This product is only rated for outdoor use. As a minimum risk 25(b) FIFRA-exempt product, it is safe enough to use around natural bodies of water.
Our Experience
When we tested this product on the outside of our homes, we found that it was easy to apply with a web duster and that applying it doubled to remove spider webs. The product worked well to prevent future web formation, and we loved that it was safe enough to use around our kids and pets.
How to Use
Shake or agitate the formula before use. Wet the areas to be treated. Use a web duster to apply the product, or transfer it to a spray bottle to spot-treat individual insects. One quart covers approximately 200-300 square feet of surface area.
Effectiveness:
4.5
Safety:
5.0
Ease of Use:
4.5
Pros:
- Kills spiders on contact
- Effective as a contact pesticide and surface treatment
- Ready to use – no mixing required
- Natural, non-toxic, eco-friendly biodegradable ingredients
- Pleasant citrus scent powered by essential oils
- Prevents webs for 30-60 days
- Safe for use in marine areas.
- Safe to use around children and pets when used as directed
Cons:
- For outdoor use only
- Requires more frequent reapplication than other products
- May stain some surfaces that absorb oil such as plastic
- Labor-intensive to apply
Best Value
Nature-Cide All Purpose Insecticide Spray (32 oz)
Type: All-purpose spray insecticide
Key ingredient(s): Clove oil and Cottonseed oil
Also good for: Spiders, ants, aphids, bedbugs, beetles, box elder bugs, caterpillars, co*ckroaches, earwigs, fleas, flies, hornets, mites, mosquitoes, clothes moths, silverfish, ticks, stink bugs, yellow jackets, silver leaf white flies and others
Made of 100% natural ingredients and a powerful blend of essential oils, this all-purpose insecticide kills insects on contact. It’s suitable for use indoors and outdoors and will kill bed bugs, co*ckroaches, ants, wasps, spiders, and more.
We love that this product is pre-mixed and ready to use, which means no measuring concentrate or mixing up a fresh batch when you need it. Additionally, it doesn’t stain, isn’t flammable, and won’t leave a sticky residue behind after use. When used according to label directions, it’s also pet safe!
The potential downside of Nature-Cide All-Purpose Insecticide is that it doesn’t last as long as other pesticides. Because it’s made of all-natural ingredients, you need to reapply it regularly, especially after watering your garden or after heavy rain. That said, we think regular reapplication is a small price to pay for a spider killer that’s safe for daily use indoors, outdoors, on fruits and vegetables, and around pets.
Our Experience:
When we sprayed the product, it produced a sufficient spray, but the trigger part of the bottle is a little flimsy. The scent is quite strong as well.
How to Use:
Shake well before using. Spray into areas where insects are found, including the areas around windows and door frames, or directly on fruits, veggies, and ornamental plants. Repeat as needed. Wash treated fruits and vegetables before consumption.
Effectiveness:
4.0
Safety:
5.0
Ease of Use:
5.0
Pros:
- Affordable, natural, and non-toxic.
- Kills spiders and dozens of other pests
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
- Safe for use around pets
- Does not leave pesticide residue
- Will not stain surfaces
- Safe for daily use
Cons:
- Requires regular re-application
- The spray must contact insects to kill them
- The essential oil smell may be too strong for some people
Buyers Guide
Wondering how to choose the proper spider-killing treatment for you? Here are our top tips:
1. Think like a spider
When it comes to controlling spiders, traditional pest control is ineffective because spiders are commonly found in high locations that are tough to treat with standard service.
This is why the eaves should be webbed and treated each time you perform DIY pest control or whenever a pest control company visits your property. NO EXCEPTIONS. On the bright side, treating those high-up places will also eliminate other pests, like wasps.
If you want to treat high locations, we recommend using a product like Nisus Web Out, which can easily be applied to eaves, soffits, walls, and ceilings with a telescoping applicator.
2. Be prepared for more intensive treatment
If you’re working with a pest management company to get rid of spiders such as brown recluses, you should know that the process may require more extensive treatment.
For example, you have to spray higher on the structure than you would with standard service.
While it may take a bit of extra time to get rid of spiders, the results will be worth it in the long run.
3. Choose the correct formulation for perimeter and residual sprays
If you’re wondering which perimeter sprays to buy, consider the physiology of spiders.
Their mobility and long legs allow them to cross areas that have already been treated without contracting enough of the product to kill them.
In other words, their bodies provide an effective, natural defense against residual products.
Because of this, we recommend using a microencapsulated product (like the editor’s choice product in this blog: Onslaught® FastCap Microencapsulated Insecticide) since the properties of the chemical allow for it to better stick to the fine hairs that cover a spider’s body, killing more spiders, faster.
4. Consider combining spot and residual treatment
Usually, we recommend combining two treatment methods for spiders. Here’s why: correct spot treatment (applying chemicals directly to the pest) can be more effective than relying on residual pesticides.
While both are important, spot treatment will help you control an infestation immediately, while residual treatments work to keep spider numbers low and prevent re-infestation in the long term.
Inside homes and buildings, spiders favor high, dark, and secluded places, such as garages and cabinets – anything they can hide inside. Focus on these areas for interior spot treatment.
5. Take a holistic approach to spider management
In addition to killing spiders, focus on altering the habitat in a way that will make it difficult or impossible for them to thrive.
For example, spiders will naturally reduce their occurrence if their food source becomes scarce. When bug populations start to decrease due to pest control treatment, spiders will naturally relocate since there will be less food available.
With that in mind, look for insecticides that kill spiders and the insects they feed on.
Bottom Line
If you’re trying to control spiders on your property, there are dozens of pest control options to choose from.
To save you some research time, we compiled all the best and most effective products into this simple guide. You can’t go wrong with any of the treatment options we’ve mentioned – all of which are effective, easy to use, and great for controlling spiders and other pests.
How We Tested The Best Spider Killers
Our list of the top spider killers on the market includes options like microencapsulated insecticides, contact aerosols, botanical insecticides, cobweb eliminators, and all-purpose insecticide sprays. To choose the spider killers we included in this list, we recalled the products we use in our fieldwork and chose the top performers in each category. From there, we evaluated each based on performance, adherence to spiders’ bodies, knockdown, price, safety, and ease of use. The result is a list of highly effective, highly targeted spider killers that we know are effective and can confidently recommend.
Why Trust Pest Dude?
When you consider a product recommendation,trustis essential. You want balanced information based on real-world experience. Here at thePestDude, we’re committed to giving you both. Our teams research and test every product. We compare results with other licensedpestcontrol professionals, and we double-check our findings.
Zachary Smith, our company founder, has over 20 years of field experience. He runs his own company, Smith’s PestManagement, serving home and business owners throughout the Bay Area. Zachary has the final say over featured products. The goal is to give you the knowledge you need to solvepestproblems like a pro. It’s our pleasure to put our expertise at your service.
Spider Control FAQs
Spiders will be drawn to any place that offers them food, shelter, and ideal habitat.
Outside, spiders will set up shop in protected areas that allow them to hunt or catch insects in their webs.
Inside, we find that spiders are often drawn to food sources and are more common in homes with existing pest populations. Whether inside or outside, spiders crave quiet, dark places where they can lay their eggs and live undisturbed.
We recommend combining cleaning, habitat modification, and chemical control methods to spider-proof your home.
To start, remove all signs of current spider infestations by sweeping, vacuuming, and mopping your home thoroughly, paying particular attention to dark corners, cracks, and crevices where spiders could be hiding.
Next, work to address any other pest problems, which could be providing a food source for spiders. Make your home difficult for spiders to access by installing door sweeps, placing or repairing screens, and using caulk to fill gaps and cracks in your home’s foundation and siding.
Finally, use residual perimeter sprays to treat the inside and outside of your home, creating an insect-proof barrier that will last for weeks.
Most spider killers can be used as spot treatments (applied directly to a spider) or as residual treatments in areas like your foundation, windows, doors, and crawl space. To use your chosen spider killer correctly, make sure you’re reading the label directions carefully. Bear in mind that most insecticides are not safe for use directly on or over any food prep surfaces.
Author Bio: Zachary Smith
Zachary Smith is the founder of PestDude.com. Zachary is a licensed pest control professional with 20+ years of hands on experience eradicating pests from homes and businesses. Zachary earned his Bachelor of Science from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in 2002. He specializes in rodent and insect infestation management of structures and landscapes. His passion is to share his extensive knowledge with the world.
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