Brown Recluse Spider Prevention Tips

There are few spider species that can compete with the reputation of the brown recluse. It is even rumored that Chuck Norris is afraid of them. But, though this reputation is somewhat out of proportion with the threat these spiders actually pose, it is a good idea to deal with brown recluse issues as soon as they appear. There is no reason to take chances, especially when there are some practical ways to reduce your chances of getting bit. Here are our top 5 brown recluse spider prevention tips.

1. Shake. Shake. Shake. These spiders like to hide in shoes and clothing. It is always a good idea to give your shoes a shake, and even a tap, to be sure that one of these spiders has not chosen this reclusive space as a hiding spot. It is also smart to shake clothing or towels before bringing them into contact with your skin. Most brown recluse spider bites happen by accidental contact.

2. Caution. If you bring a box in from an outbuilding, shed, or garage, it is a good idea to use caution when searching inside. Brown recluse spiders are attracted to boxes. These spiders do not live on flies alone. They dine on larger insects, like cockroaches. And, since cockroaches enjoy getting into boxes in search of food, brown recluse enjoy boxes for the same reason--only their food is cockroaches. It is smart to use gloves when searching through boxes that were taken from storage. This includes attic spaces.

3. Spider web identification. If your goal is to prevent bites from a brown recluse spider, it is a good idea to recognize their webs when you see them. Brown recluse don't make those lovely, round webs we see at Halloween. Their webs are a tangled mess, and usually located in a low space. If you see a tangled web in a low recess, it may be a good idea to have a professional examine that web and determine whether or not it is a brown recluse. Chances are good that it is.

4. Look under the blankets. Once you are in bed, there is less of a chance that brown recluse will climb in with you. These are, as their name implies, reclusive spiders. So, looking under your covers before you slide into bed can actually prevent a bite from occurring.

5. Ongoing pest control. When you have regular visits from a professional, you are much less likely to have trouble with brown recluse spiders, or any other invasive pest.

Are brown recluse spiders as dangerous as the myths would have you believe? No. But bites from this spider species can lead to serious symptoms and serious consequences. Don't take any chances. It's just not worth it.