Wondering how to keep spiders out of your basement this summer in Iowa City? You’re definitely not alone.
When the warm months hit, Iowa City homeowners start noticing more eight-legged guests crawling out from corners and crevices. And trust us—those spiders didn’t just wander in by chance.
Your basement offers everything they want: it’s cool, dimly lit, and usually undisturbed. Add in a few stray bugs or storage boxes, and it becomes the perfect hideout for spiders to spin their webs and settle in.
The good news? You can take back your space. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to keep spiders out of the basement—with simple steps you can do today and long-term strategies that offer lasting protection.
Quick Ways to Get Rid of Basement Spiders—Right Now
Now that you understand why spiders gravitate toward basements, let’s walk through some fast, practical ways to kick them out—no pest control team required (yet).
Try these simple steps to clear the area and start reclaiming your space:
🧽 Sweep up webs, egg sacs, and hiding spots
Grab the vacuum and go after webs in ceiling corners, behind shelves, and anywhere bugs might be hiding. Don’t forget around ductwork or under stairs—spiders love those low-traffic zones.
📍 Set sticky traps in quiet zones
Tuck a few glue traps along the walls, near small windows, and behind stacked items. You’ll trap wandering spiders and also get a better sense of where they’re most active.
🍋 Use natural repellents like citrus or mint
A light mist of essential oil spray along baseboards and cracks can help discourage spiders from hanging around. They’re not fans of strong scents like peppermint, lemon, or eucalyptus.
⚠️ Use spider spray as a last resort
Still seeing activity? A household-safe insecticide may help when applied directly to trouble areas—but be cautious and read the label, especially if you have pets or little ones nearby.
These steps are quick to implement and lay the foundation for more permanent spider control. Next up? Making sure they don’t come back.
🔒 How to Keep Spiders Out of the Basement—Long Term
It’s one thing to remove spiders when they show up—but if you want lasting results, prevention is where the real payoff happens.
Fortunately, spider-proofing your basement in Iowa City doesn’t have to be a major project. A few smart adjustments can make it far less attractive to these uninvited guests.
Here’s how to keep spiders from making a comeback:
- 1
Block off their entry routes:
Inspect the edges of your basement—especially where pipes, cables, or vents pass through walls. Even tiny cracks around windows or foundation seams can give spiders an open door. Use sealant or expanding foam to close those gaps. - 2
Dry out the damp:
Spiders—and the insects they chase—thrive in humid environments. If your basement feels musty or damp, running a dehumidifier can reduce moisture and help keep the pests away. - 3
Keep storage lifted and organized:
Avoid keeping cardboard boxes directly on the floor or pushed against the wall. Shelving units or plastic bins raised a few inches off the ground reduce hiding places and make it easier to clean. - 4
Change out your outdoor lighting:
Standard exterior bulbs attract insects at night—and spiders follow where the food is. Swap in warm-hued or yellow-toned lights around entry points to help cut down on that nightly bug traffic.
If you’ve been looking for practical ways to keep spiders out of your basement for good, these steps are your best defense.
Combine them with the earlier removal tips, and your basement can stay cleaner, drier, and spider-free all summer long.
📞 When DIY Isn’t Enough: Call a Spider Control Pro in Iowa City
You’ve sealed every gap, cleaned every corner, and even invested in a dehumidifier—but somehow, the spiders still keep coming back.
If it feels like you’ve tried everything and nothing sticks, it may be time to hand things off to the pros.
Here’s when to call Bobcat Wildlife & Pest Management in Iowa City:
The best part? We’re not a distant call center—we’re local. Bobcat Pest has deep roots in Iowa, and we understand the seasonal pest patterns unique to Iowa City basements.
We don’t just show up with spray and leave. Our spider pest control services include detailed inspections, expert treatment, and proactive prevention strategies that keep your basement spider-free for the long haul.
📋 Quick Recap: Your Spider-Free Basement Checklist
Need a quick summary on how to keep spiders out of your Iowa City basement? Here’s your go-to checklist to help keep those eight-legged intruders away:
Want long-lasting relief without the trial and error? Bobcat Wildlife & Pest Management offers real solutions to keep your Iowa City basement spider-free, no matter the season.
About the Author
Derek Brownmiller, Area Manager at Bobcat Wildlife & Pest Management, leads with 16+ years in wildlife and pest control. Licensed and experienced, his Iowa City-based team excels in comprehensive, customer-focused solutions. Their mission: superior service in Iowa City and beyond, ensuring homes are safe from wildlife and pests.
