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Insects · Pest library
Spider control in Toronto, the GTA and cottage country
Most spiders in Ontario homes are harmless, but webs in corners, windows and basements are a nuisance. Lots of spiders usually means lots of insects for them to eat.
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How to identify spiders
These are the spiders homeowners see most often.
House spiders
Small, brown spiders that build tangled webs in corners, ceilings and light fixtures.
Cellar spiders
Very long, thin legs and small bodies. Common in damp basements and crawl spaces.
Wolf spiders
Larger, hairy and fast. They hunt along the ground instead of using webs.
Signs to look for
- Webs in corners, light fixtures and windows
- Small, round egg sacs tucked into webs or corners
- Spiders gathering near outdoor lights
- Webs under decks, docks, railings and eaves
Why spiders come inside
What draws them in
Spiders follow their food. Outdoor lighting, clutter and damp basements attract the insects spiders hunt, and many move inside as nights cool in late summer.
Health and home risks
Spiders commonly found in Ontario homes aren't considered dangerous. Bites are uncommon and usually mild, but anyone with a strong reaction should see a doctor.
How we handle spiders
Remove webs and egg sacs
Around eaves, windows, docks, entry points and basements.
Treat where they live
Exterior treatment where spiders build and hunt.
Cut their food supply
Treating the insects spiders feed on, so fewer stay.
Advise on attractants
Simple lighting and storage changes that make your home less inviting.
Prevention tips
- Switch to warm or yellow outdoor bulbs, which attract fewer insects
- Reduce clutter in basements, garages and storage areas
- Run a dehumidifier in damp basements
- Fit tight screens and door sweeps
- Keep plants and mulch back from the foundation
- Vacuum webs and egg sacs regularly
Common questions about spiders
Are there dangerous spiders in Ontario?
Spiders considered dangerous to people are rare in Ontario. The spiders we see in local homes are almost always harmless nuisance species.
Why do I see more spiders in the fall?
Many spiders reach full size in late summer and fall, and males wander looking for mates, so they're easier to spot.
Related pests
Reviewed by PestDepart's licensed exterminators. For health concerns, including bites or stings, contact your doctor or local public health unit.