House spiders are a common sight in many homes. Most of the time, they are harmless and even helpful, keeping other insect populations in check. However, not all house spiders are the same, and while many are no cause for concern, there are some that can pose risks. It's a good idea to know how to tell the difference between the harmless species and the few that may be more problematic.

The majority of house spiders are non-venomous and don’t pose a threat to people. For example, the common house spider (Parasteatoda tepidariorum) which is often found in corners or windows is more of a nuisance than a danger. They typically stay out of sight and are only interested in trapping small insects. Other harmless species include the cellar spider and the orb-weaver. While these spiders may not be the most pleasant housemates, they rarely interact with people and won’t cause harm.

However, there are a few species of spiders that homeowners should be aware of. The black widow and brown recluse are two of the more dangerous spiders that could be found in or around homes. Black widows are easily recognized by their shiny black bodies and red hourglass markings on the underside of their abdomens. Their bites, while not usually fatal, can cause some serious symptoms, including muscle pain, nausea, and trouble breathing. The brown recluse is another species with a dangerously venomous bite. It is brown with a violin-shaped mark on its back, and its bite can result in necrotic skin wounds if not treated quickly. Much like most spiders, these two species are not fans of human interaction and will do their best to stay in very hidden, undisturbed areas like attics, basements, or closets.

It's important to note that most spider bites happen when a spider is accidentally disturbed, like when someone reaches into a dark corner without looking or puts on a shoe where a spider is hiding. The best way to avoid bites is to be careful when you move items that have been stored for a long time or are in areas where spiders are likely to hide. It can help to be in the habit of regularly cleaning and dusting potential problem areas since spiders prefer undisturbed and dusty places.

When dealing with potentially dangerous spiders, it’s important to take action quickly. If there are signs of black widows or brown recluses, such as seeing them regularly or finding their webs in hard-to-reach places, calling in professional help is often the safest option. A commercial exterminator in Provo can assess the situation and use safe methods to remove these pests from the home without putting anyone at risk. This can be especially helpful for families or homes with pets or children, where the threat of a spider bite is more serious.

While it’s easy to panic at the sight of a spider, it's important to remember that most are not dangerous. It is a good idea to learn how to recognize the difference between harmless and harmful species so that you avoid unnecessary worry and also know when professional help is needed.