How to stop Joro spiders getting inside your home – 5 simple steps to a spider-free space

If you've spotted large, colorful spiders around your property, you’re might be dealing with Joro spiders – an invasive species known for their striking yellow and blue-striped bodies and long, spindly legs.

While these web-weaving arachnids aren’t dangerous, they can be an unsettling presence, especially when they start making their way into your home during spider season, when arachnids come indoors in search of a mate.

So, armed knowledge to help you identify pests, here's how you can stop Joro spiders from becoming unwanted residents in your home.

Step 1: Seal entry points

One of the simplest and most effective ways to keep Joro spiders out is to seal any potential entry points.

Joseph Passalacqua, CEO of Maid Sailors, says, 'The first line of defense against Joro spiders is to eliminate their entry points. Spiders can squeeze through tiny cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and other potential openings. Regularly inspect your home's exterior and seal any cracks or openings you find.'

Tommy Mello, founder and CEO of home services giants, A1 Garage Door Service, recommends Gorilla Rubberized Waterproof Patch & Seal from Amazon. He says, 'This versatile caulk works indoors and outdoors to prevent entry from pests.'

Passalacqua recommends Great Stuff Pestblock Insulating Foam Sealant, available from Amazon, adding, 'This handy product expands to fill gaps and cracks, providing an effective barrier against Joro spiders and other pests. Its flexibility makes it ideal for sealing small crevices around your home.'

Step 2: Install mesh screens

Install fine mesh screens over windows, vents, and other areas where spiders might enter.

Zahid Adnan, founder of The Plant Bible, says, 'One effective solution is to install fine mesh screens on windows and doors. Joro spiders are often drawn to indoor lights at night, but screens act as a barrier that prevents them from getting in while allowing airflow.

'A product I really recommend for this is the Saint-Gobain ADFORS Fiberglass Screen from Amazon which offers durability and efficient protection.'

An added benefit of mesh screens is that they also help keep other pests out, which could otherwise attract spiders into your home. Remember to regularly check for tears or gaps in your existing screens, as even small holes can allow Joro spiders, which are at their largest, one in in body size, and four finches on leg span wide, to get inside.

Step 3: Use natural repellents

Certain natural scents act as repellents for spiders, including Joro spiders. Passalacqua says, 'Certain natural repellents are great for deterring spiders from entering your home. Essential oils like peppermint, tea tree, and eucalyptus are known to repel spiders. Create a simple spray using these oils and water, and apply it around windows, doors, and other entry points.'

Passalacqua recommends Majestic Pure Peppermint Essential Oil from Amazon and Sally's Organics Glass Spray Bottles from Walmart, while Mello rates Wondercide Peppermint Indoor Pest Control Spray from Amazon, saying, 'This offers a natural and safe solution to keep spiders at bay without the need for harmful chemicals.'

Importantly, these oils are safe for use around children and pets, and can help deter spiders without using harsh chemicals.

For information on Joro spiders can impact your backyard, check out our guide on how Joro spiders can affect your plants.

Step 4: Use lower lighting

Joro spiders are attracted to insects, which are drawn to bright outdoor lights.

Reducing outdoor lighting, or switching to yellow "bug lights," can help minimize the number of insects around your home and, in turn, reduce spider activity. This LINKPAL Bug Pest Fly Trap Night Light from Wayfair is an effective trap that will help to remove insects that might lure Joro spiders towards your home.

Keeping lights off near entry points at night can also discourage spiders from coming close.

Step 5: Maintain cleanliness

Spiders like dark, cluttered areas, so maintaining a clean, clutter-free home can help keep them away.

Passalacqua says, 'Spiders are attracted to clutter and dark – undisturbed areas where they can build their sizeable webs. Keeping your home clean and free of clutter can significantly reduce the likelihood of a spider infestation.

'Regular vacuuming, dusting, and decluttering are essential steps in maintaining a spider-free home. The Dyson V11 Torque Drive Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, available from Amazon, is my personal favorite. This powerful vacuum cleaner reaches into tight corners and under furniture, removing dust, dirt, and spider webs with ease.'

Passalacqua also recommends Swiffer Dusters from Amazon, adding, 'Ideal for dusting hard-to-reach places, Swiffer Dusters effectively trap and lock dust and spider webs, leaving your surfaces clean and clear.'

Keeping outdoor areas, such as your porch or garage, clean and free of debris can also help. Check out these expert-approved backyard cleaning tips and our guide to how to declutter a backyard.

FAQs

Are Joro spiders dangerous to humans?

No, Joro spiders are not dangerous to humans. Their venom is not harmful, and they are generally non-aggressive.

What attracts Joro spiders to homes?

Joro spiders are attracted to insects, which are often drawn to light. Reducing outdoor lighting can help prevent them from coming close to your home.

Can Joro spiders climb walls?

Yes, like most spiders, Joro spiders can easily climb walls and other vertical surfaces.

What time of year are Joro spiders most active?

Joro spiders are most active in the late summer and early fall, when they are fully grown and looking to reproduce.

So there you have it – how to stop Joro spiders getting inside your home in five simple steps. By sealing entry points, installing mesh screens, using natural repellents, lowering lighting, and maintaining cleanliness, you can greatly reduce the chances of Joro spiders becoming unwelcome guests.

Next, check out how to keep spiders out of your garage.