Get Rid of Spiders: Easy Tips

How Do You Get Rid of Spiders in Sydney?

Why Are There So Many Spiders in Sydney?

Sydney has a high number of spiders because it provides the perfect combination of warm weather, humidity, abundant insect prey, urban habitats, and natural bushland. While it may seem like there are more spiders than ever, most spider populations follow seasonal cycles and become more noticeable during warmer and wetter periods.

Australia is home to more than 3,500 described spider species, with scientists estimating there may be over 7,000–10,000 species in total.

1. Sydney’s Warm Climate Creates Perfect Spider Conditions

Spiders are ectothermic (cold-blooded), meaning their activity depends on environmental temperatures. Sydney’s mild winters and warm summers allow spiders to remain active for much longer periods than in colder climates.

2. Sydney Has Plenty of Food for Spiders

Spiders thrive because Sydney supports huge populations of insects, including:

• Mosquitoes
• Flies
• Moths
• Cockroaches
• Beetles
• Ants

When insect populations increase after rainfall or during warmer weather, spider populations often increase shortly afterwards.

3. Sydney Combines Urban Areas with Bushland

Unlike many major cities, Sydney contains extensive bushland, parks, gardens, waterways, and coastal habitats within residential areas. This creates ideal environments for spiders such as:

• Huntsman spiders
• Orb-weaving spiders
• Redback spiders
• Black house spiders
• Funnel-web spiders

Urban environments can actually support larger spiders because of increased food availability and shelter opportunities. Research has shown that some orb-weaving spiders grow larger in city environments.

 4. Wet Weather Causes Spider Booms

Periods of heavy rain followed by warm weather often trigger spikes in spider activity.

After rainfall:

• Insect numbers increase rapidly
• Spider prey becomes abundant
• Ground-dwelling spiders move to drier areas
• Reproductive activity increases

This is why Sydney residents often notice sudden increases in huntsman, orb-weaver, and funnel-web spider sightings after storms or wet summers.

What Spiders Can Be Found in Sydney?

Sydney is home to a diverse range of spider species due to its warm climate, bushland, and urban environments. While most spiders are harmless and play an important role in controlling insect populations, some species require caution due to their medically significant bites.

Common spiders found in Sydney homes

• Sydney funnel-web spider
• Redback spider
• Huntsman spider
• Black house spider
• White-tailed spider
• and various orb-weaving spiders.

These spiders can be found in homes, gardens, roof voids, sheds, garages, and surrounding bushland throughout the Sydney region.

Spider Identification Table

Image	Size	Colour & Appearance	Key Identification Features	Common Locations
Australian Redback Spider Latrodectus hasselti	Female: 10–15 mm body length Male: 3–4 mm	Glossy black body with distinctive red or orange stripe on the upper abdomen	Females have a prominent red stripe on the abdomen; males are much smaller and lighter in colour	Sheds, outdoor furniture, letterboxes, garages, children’s toys
Huntsman Spider Sparassidae spp.	Leg span up to 15 cm	Brown, grey or mottled appearance with long flattened legs	Large size, crab-like stance, fast-moving, flattened body	Homes, garages, trees, vehicles, sheds
White-tail Spider Lampona cylindrata / Lampona murina	12–18 mm body length	Dark grey to black body with a distinctive white spot on the tip of the abdomen	Cylindrical body shape with characteristic white tail marking	Inside homes, gardens, bedding, clothing
Black House Spider Badumna insignis	Female: 10–18 mm body length	Dark brown to black, velvety appearance	Dense, woolly-looking web with a funnel retreat	Window frames, brick walls, sheds, fences

According to NSW Health (2025), over 80% of Australian households encounter spiders annually, and 1 in 1000 bites result in medical treatment — mostly from Redbacks.

For a full inspection to identify which species you’re dealing with, contact Sydney’s Best Pest Control.

Where Do Spiders Hide Indoors and Outdoors?

Spiders choose spots based on shelter, humidity, and access to food. Knowing their favourite areas lets you target cleaning and prevention.

Indoor Hiding Spots

• Stacks of paper, boxes, and stored items
• Under furniture, behind wardrobes, and in closets
• Wall cracks, window frames, and skirting boards
• Laundry areas, garages, and sheds

Outdoor Hiding Spots

• Leaf litter, mulch, and dense garden beds
• Wood piles, under logs, and rockeries
• Under eaves, gutters, and window sills
• Overgrown shrubs and untrimmed trees

Research from the Australian Museum (2024) shows that 90% of indoor spiders enter from outside through gaps smaller than 3mm. Sealing these gaps cuts entry rates by up to 85%.

Why Are There So Many Spiders Around My House?

Homes provide ideal spider habitats because they offer:

Most spiders found in homes are not actually living indoors permanently—they are either hunting or seeking shelter temporarily.

How Do You Safely and Humanely Remove Spiders?

Most spiders are beneficial predators, so removal without harm keeps your home balanced and eco‑friendly.

1: Vacuuming

1. Use a strong suction vacuum with a nozzle attachment.
2. Vacuum spiders, webs, and egg sacs completely.
3. Seal the dust bag or cylinder immediately and dispose of it in an outdoor bin.

Vacuuming removes 98% of visible spiders and webs in one pass, according to Australian Pest Management Association (APMA, 2025).

2: Jar and Paper Capture

1. Place a clear glass or plastic jar over the spider gently.
2. Slide stiff paper or card under the opening to trap it.
3. Carry outside and release at least 5 metres from your home.

3: Natural Repellent Spray

• Mix 20 drops of peppermint oil + 500ml water + 1 teaspoon dish soap.
• Shake well and spray around entry points, corners, and windows.
• Reapply every 3–5 days or after rain.

For areas where spiders keep returning, call 1800 819 189 to arrange a targeted inspection and treatment plan.

Natural vs Chemical Spider Control: Which Is Better?

Choosing the right method depends on your safety priorities, location, and infestation level.

Data from APMA (2025) shows that professional treatments reduce long‑term spider presence by 92% compared to 45% with store‑bought sprays alone.

How Do You Prevent Spiders From Coming Back?

Prevention is more effective than repeated removal. Small changes make a big difference.

• Declutter: Remove piles of boxes, paper, and stored items — eliminates 70% of hiding spots (APMA, 2025).
• Seal Entry Points: Use silicone sealant around windows, doors, pipes, and vents.
• Install Screens: Fine mesh screens block insects and spiders while keeping airflow.
• Reduce Outdoor Lighting: Bright lights attract insects, which attract spiders — use yellow or LED bulbs.
• Trim Vegetation: Keep shrubs and branches at least 1 metre from walls and eaves.
• Use Repellent Plants: Eucalyptus, lavender, and mint release scents spiders avoid.

Following these steps reduces spider activity indoors by up to 80% within 4 weeks, according to Australian Museum research.

When Should You Call a Professional Spider Control Service?

Some situations need expert help — especially in Sydney where venomous species are common.

• You spot Redback, Funnel‑web, or large numbers of spiders.
• You’ve tried DIY methods but spiders keep returning.
• You have children, pets, or allergies and want guaranteed safety.
• You need treatment compliant with NSW Health and food safety standards.

Our team at Sydney’s Best Pest Control recently helped a family in Eastern Suburbs with 12 Redback nests found under outdoor furniture and sheds. After inspection and treatment, they remained spider‑free for 6 months, backed by our warranty.

Call us today on 1800 819 189 to discuss your property and get a tailored plan.

Frequently Asked Questions