Why You’re Seeing More Spiders Indoors in October

Blog Post: Why You’re Seeing More Spiders Indoors in October

Each year as the nights draw in and the temperature drops, homeowners across North Yorkshire notice the same thing — more spiders appearing indoors. You might spot one scuttling across the carpet in the evening or find a large house spider sitting in the bath in the morning. October is their peak season, and although they might seem more active, what’s actually happening is part of their natural cycle.

At Pest Assured, we help homeowners and businesses between Thirsk and York deal with all kinds of pest issues, and spiders are one of the most common late-autumn visitors. Understanding why they come inside, what attracts them, and how to reduce their presence can make a big difference to your comfort — and to keeping your property pest-free.

Why Spiders Come Indoors in Autumn

By October, temperatures in North Yorkshire start to drop. Spiders that have spent the warmer months outdoors are now seeking warmth, food, and shelter. It’s not that there are suddenly more spiders; rather, they become more visible as they move around in search of a mate and a stable environment before winter.

Male house spiders are the most likely to be seen indoors at this time of year. They leave their hiding places to look for females, often venturing across floors, walls, and ceilings. Their size and quick movements can be alarming, but they are harmless to humans.

Most of these spiders have been living quietly in your property for months — in lofts, under furniture, or behind skirting boards. When the weather cools, they simply become more active.

Typical Species Found Indoors

In our area, the most common indoor species are:

• Giant House Spider (Eratigena atrica): Large, dark brown, and fast-moving. Males are often seen in autumn.

• Cellar Spider (Pholcus phalangioides): Sometimes called the ‘Daddy Longlegs Spider’, they build loose, messy webs in corners and garages.

• Common House Spider (Tegenaria domestica): Smaller than the giant variety but with similar habits.

• False Widow Spider (Steatoda nobilis): Recognisable by their glossy bodies and cream-coloured markings. Although their bite can cause mild irritation, serious incidents are rare.

Each species prefers dry, undisturbed environments — which is why you’ll often find them in lofts, airing cupboards, garages, or under furniture.

What Attracts Spiders Indoors

Several factors can make your home more appealing to spiders:

• Warmth: As temperatures fall outdoors, internal warmth draws them in.

• Food: Spiders feed on insects such as flies, moths, and ants. A property with other pest activity provides a convenient food source.

• Shelter: Gaps under doors, open vents, and poorly sealed windows allow easy access. Once inside, spiders prefer dark, quiet corners to hide and spin webs.

• Clutter: Piles of boxes, clothing, or papers offer perfect hiding spots.

Understanding these attractants is the first step in reducing spider activity inside your property.

How to Reduce Spider Activity Indoors

If you’d rather keep spiders outside where they belong, there are several effective and humane ways to reduce their presence:

1. Seal entry points

Inspect around doors, windows, air bricks, and pipe openings. Seal small gaps with silicone or draught excluder strips.

2. Regular cleaning

Vacuuming regularly removes webs, egg sacs, and insects that attract spiders. Pay attention to corners, ceilings, and behind furniture.

3. Reduce lighting at night

Outdoor lights attract flying insects, which in turn attract spiders. Use motion-sensitive lights or reduce unnecessary lighting near doors and windows.

4. Remove clutter

Spiders love quiet areas. Keep storage spaces tidy and use sealed containers instead of cardboard boxes.

5. Natural deterrents

Some people find success with natural repellents such as peppermint oil, citrus peel, or vinegar sprays. While they may not eliminate spiders entirely, they can help discourage them from specific areas.

6. Control other insects

Spiders thrive where there’s food. Reducing flies, moths, and other insects automatically makes your property less inviting.

Professional Spider Control in York and North Yorkshire

While most spiders are harmless and play a useful role by feeding on other insects, the sight of large house spiders can still cause distress. In some cases, particularly in commercial settings or properties with ongoing infestations, professional treatment may be necessary.

At Pest Assured, our qualified technicians carry out discreet and effective spider control throughout York, Easingwold, Huby, and the surrounding villages. We use safe, targeted methods to treat affected areas, identify entry points, and help prevent future problems.

All treatments are tailored to the property and situation — ensuring long-term results without unnecessary disruption.

Keeping Spiders Out for Good

Once spider activity is under control, prevention is key. Maintaining good housekeeping, sealing entry points, and reducing other insect populations are the most reliable ways to keep your home comfortable all year round.

If you’re regularly finding spiders indoors or have noticed webs reappearing quickly after removal, it’s worth having a professional inspection. We can assess your property, identify causes, and recommend appropriate treatments.

Call the Local Experts

Pest Assured provides reliable pest control across North Yorkshire — from Thirsk through Huby to York. Whether it’s spiders, cluster flies, rodents, or wasps, our fully qualified team delivers fast, professional, and discreet service.

📞 Call 07375 775 999

📧 enquiries@yorkpests.co.uk