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### Behavior & Risk
* Harmless to humans; non-aggressive.
* Beneficial predators of flying insects.
### How to Get Rid of Orb Weavers
* **Remove webs:** Take down webs regularly.
* **Exterior lighting:** Reduce outdoor lights that attract insects.
* **Physical barriers:** Use screens on windows and doors.
* **Natural deterrents:** Spray essential oils or vinegar.
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## 9. **Sac Spider (Cheiracanthium spp.)**
### Identification
* **Size:** 5-12 mm
* **Color:** Yellowish or pale green
* **Behavior:** Builds silk sacs on plants, window sills, and in corners
### Behavior & Risk
* Can bite humans; bites cause mild to moderate pain and irritation.
* Often found indoors near windows and doors.
### How to Get Rid of Sac Spiders
* **Seal entry points:** Especially around windows and doors.
* **Vacuum regularly:** Remove eggs and sacs.
* **Reduce outdoor lighting:** Less attraction for prey.
* **Apply pesticides:** If infestations are high.
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## 10. **Hobo Spider (Eratigena agrestis)**
### Identification
* **Size:** 7-14 mm
* **Color:** Brown with chevron markings on the abdomen
* **Web:** Funnel webs in basements, garages, and crawl spaces
### Behavior & Risk
* Suspected to be mildly venomous; bites may cause local necrosis but are controversial.
* Shy and avoid humans.
### How to Get Rid of Hobo Spiders
* **Clean webs:** Remove funnel webs often.
* **Seal cracks:** Prevent entry.
* **Declutter:** Eliminate hiding spots.
* **Pesticide use:** Apply targeted insecticides if necessary.
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## General Tips to Keep Your Home Spider-Free
* **Maintain Cleanliness:** Regularly vacuum and dust, especially in corners, under furniture, and in storage areas.
* **Declutter:** Spiders love dark, undisturbed clutter. Keep storage neat and minimal.
* **Seal Entry Points:** Check windows, doors, vents, and cracks. Use weather stripping and caulk to seal.
* **Reduce Outdoor Lighting:** Insects attracted to lights bring spiders closer. Use yellow or sodium vapor lights outdoors.
* **Control Insect Population:** Since spiders feed on insects, reducing your home’s insect population limits their food source.
* **Use Natural Repellents:** Peppermint, citrus, vinegar, and eucalyptus oils are known to deter spiders.
* **Sticky Traps:** Place spider sticky traps in corners and dark places to monitor and catch spiders.
* **Professional Pest Control:** For venomous species or large infestations, call experts.
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## When to Seek Medical Help
Most spiders are harmless. However, if bitten by a spider suspected to be a Brown Recluse or Black Widow—or if you experience severe symptoms such as intense pain, swelling, fever, or muscle cramps—seek immediate medical attention.
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## Conclusion
Understanding the types of spiders commonly found in homes helps you identify them accurately and choose the best control methods. While many spiders pose no threat and even help reduce other pests, some require cautious handling or professional intervention.
By combining regular cleaning, home maintenance, natural deterrents, and, when needed, targeted pesticide use, you can effectively manage and reduce spider presence in your home. Embrace the role of these tiny predators in your ecosystem or keep your living space spider-free with confidence!
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If you want, I can also help you with detailed recipes for natural spider repellents or step-by-step home treatment plans. Just let me know!