Spiders are part of daily life in Tacoma and across Western Washington. You often find them in basements, crawl spaces, garages, and around windowsills. Some are harmless and even helpful. Others can leave painful bites that may need medical care. The challenge is knowing which type of spider you are dealing with.
House spiders, orb weavers, and wolf spiders may look scary, but they are not a real threat. But black widows, yellow sac spiders, and hobo spiders can cause more serious problems.
This guide helps you with identifying spiders in Tacoma. We cover common Washington species that are safe to live with and those that need caution. By the end, you’ll know how to prevent spider problems and when to call for spider control.
Key Takeaways
- Most spiders in Tacoma are harmless. House spiders, orb weavers, and garden spiders help by catching other insects.
- Some spiders can cause painful bites. Tacoma homeowners should watch for black widows, yellow sac spiders, and hobo spiders.
- Where spiders live matters; dangerous species often hide in basements, crawl spaces, garages, and wood piles. Harmless ones spin webs in gardens and shrubs.
- Spider control works. Seal entry points, move wood piles, and call pest control as needed to keep your home safer year-round.
Common House Spiders in Tacoma
Several common house spiders thrive in Tacoma, with the house spider being one of the most prevalent. These arachnids are the ones you see in corners, windowsills, and basements. Cooler, damp spaces attract them, which explains why you might see more spiders in basements during cooler months in Tacoma.
The giant house spider is the most common, and while its size can be startling, it is not dangerous.
The long-bodied cellar spider, often called a “daddy long-leg,” is another harmless species of spider. Both spin webs indoors to catch pests. They can be a nuisance, but they are not a health risk.
Outside, orb weaver spiders are easy to spot. The garden spider, also known as Araneus diadematus, creates large, round webs between bushes or fences in Tacoma yards. These orb weavers look striking, but they do not harm people.
Dangerous Spiders in Washington State
Some Washington spiders need more caution. The black widow has a shiny black body and a red hourglass mark. It is the most venomous spider in the area. It is more common in Eastern Washington but sometimes appears around Tacoma, often in garages, crawl spaces, or woodpiles.
The hobo spider (Eratigena agrestis) builds funnel-shaped webs along walls and foundations. People often mistake it for a wolf spider due to its similar size and color. Hobo spider bites are less harmful than once thought, but they can hurt. If bitten, seek advice from a doctor or nurse.
Yellow sac spiders (Cheiracanthium) are among the most common biters in Western Washington. They are small and easily overlooked. Look for their silky sacs on ceilings and in corners. Their bites are not deadly, but they can cause itching and irritation.
Another confusing species is the false black widow (Steatoda grossa). It resembles a black widow, but it causes milder effects. Its bite may cause swelling and discomfort, but it is rarely dangerous.
Wolf Spiders and Jumping Spiders
Wolf spiders (Lycosidae) are often mistaken for hobo spiders due to their size and hairy look. Unlike many spiders, they do not use webs to catch prey. They hunt on the ground. You often see them in wood piles, crawl spaces, and basements.
Jumping spiders are small, but they have large eyes and quick movements. They rarely cause problems indoors because they hunt flies and other pests. Their jumps can startle you, but they do not harm people.
Preventing Spider Problems in Tacoma Homes
Start spider control with prevention. Seal gaps around doors, foundation cracks, and windowsills with caulk. Keep garages and basements free of clutter so spiders have fewer places to hide.
Outside, move wood piles away from the house and trim plants near walls to reduce spider activity. Clear spider webs often to discourage new ones from forming. These steps are simple and effective for homeowners across Western Washington.
When to Call for Spider Control
Most common spiders are safe, but you do not want black widows or yellow sac spiders in your home. If you see funnel webs from hobo spiders, shiny black widows, or any other kind of spider acting unusually, call for help. Professional pest control in Tacoma, WA can identify the spider and treat the problem.
We provide pet- and family-friendly spider control in Tacoma, WA to keep your home pest-free
Making the Right Spider Control Choice in Tacoma
Even a tidy home can attract spiders, especially during cooler months. Knowing which species are harmless and which need attention helps you respond quickly and safely.
At PCI Pest Control, we provide reliable, family-safe treatments for homes throughout Tacoma, Olympia, and surrounding areas. Our local team can identify the species, remove infestations, and help prevent future problems.
Contact us today or request a free quote to schedule your spider inspection and keep your home comfortable throughout the year.
FAQs
Are brown recluse spiders found in Tacoma?
No. The brown recluse spider does not live in Washington state. Most suspected sightings are actually hobo spiders or giant house spiders.
Where do black widow spiders live in Washington?
Black widow spiders are more common in eastern Washington. However, you may find them in Tacoma inside garages, crawl spaces, or wood piles.
What should I do if a spider bites me?
Clean the area with soap and water, apply a cool compress, and monitor for any symptoms. If swelling, pain, or cramps get worse, seek medical attention immediately.
to walk you through your pest control plan.
