How to Get Rid of Daddy Long-Legs: Easy Methods that Work

Despite how they look up close, daddy long-leg spiders are incredibly easy to kill.

But if you’re unsure how, then all you have to do is pick out one method from our quick guide below, on how to get rid of daddy long-legs, and do it yourself at home.

If you find any particular method method too hard, or unappealing, you could try experimenting with two or more methods to see what works best for you.

Spidercides

Spidercides or spider killers are one of the most convenient ways to kill daddy long-legs.

Sprays like the Terro Spider Killer are designed to get rid of these arachnids in just one go. You can also use it to create residual barriers.

To keep the spiders from coming back, spray it into the areas where you’d usually see them nest. In the basement, attic, garage and in rarely used storage spaces – these are some of their favorite hiding spots.

And while you’re at it, check out our more detailed guide on how to get rid of spider nests. It’s packed full of useful tips and methods.

Vacuum Cleaner

No spider can win against the sheer power of a vacuum cleaner, especially the flimsy daddy long-legs.

All you have to do is drag the cleaner into the spot where the spiders usually gather, and using a straight mouth, suck them in.

You should also clean up the carpet and the furniture in your home because these things harbor small insects that the daddy long-legs feed on.

Keeping the House Dry

How to Get Rid of Stuff emphasizes that daddy long-legs love moist environments. They prefer damp places because these spots attract the tiny insects that they eat.

So keep your house dry, specially your basement, garage, kitchen, closets and bathrooms. Fix drains, pipes and faucets that leak. Use stoppers for them, or just contact your local plumber.

You should also consider investing in a good dehumidifier since it can get rid of the moist air that other pests like termites and roaches need.

Bleach

Bleach can absolutely kill any insect or arachnid on direct contact. Thick bleach, the kind that’s used to clean bathrooms, are particularly harmful to these creatures.

In a spray bottle, combine 1/2 bleach and 1/2 water. The more bleach you put in, the more potent the mixture will be. Mix the two liquids together, and use them instantly. Daddy long-legs are more fragile than other arachnids. It’ll only take a few seconds for you to kill them with bleach.

Essential Oils

There are a lot of useful essential oils out there. But in order to repel spiders, you should use lemon, peppermint, tea tree oil, eucalyptus and lavender. These oils have compounds like d-limonene, a natural-occurring chemical that’s been discovered to have pest control qualities.

To assemble your repellent, all you have to do is add a few drops of these oils in a spray bottle. Add some water, and you’re ready to use it. If you want a more potent mix, add in a few more drops of the same oil or experiment by combining a few of them.

Boric Acid

Sprinkling boric acid or hydrogen borate can help eliminate daddy long-legs by either repelling them or killing them.

Boric acid is made up of crystal-like microscopic particles that can make tiny cuts on an arachnid’s or insect’s exoskeleton and trigger bodily fluid leaks. The powder can also cling to these creatures. So when they groom themselves, they’ll accidentally ingest it, causing dehydration and damages to their stomachs.

If you plan on using boric acid, just spread it into the places where the daddy long-legs usually hide. However, keep in mind that children and pets should not go anywhere near this powder. It may be labeled ‘safe’ by a lot of manufacturers, but it can still cause health issues if consumed.

Food-Grade Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a common treatment for fragile spiders like daddy long-legs. It’s made up of fossilized diatoms, but it works just like boric acid.

The flour-like substance cuts through a spider’s exoskeleton and causes it to leak out fluids. It also enters the body and dries the creature out. Use this method as you would with boric acid.

​Using diatomaceous earth as well as the other methods we’ve mentioned above makes learning how to get rid of daddy long-legs easy.

Just remember though, maintenance and repetition is the key here. Conduct a removal every now and then to keep your home free from those pesky daddy long-legs.