Spiders in the Bedroom: Should You Worry?

Finding a spider in the bedroom is unsettling, but it is usually harmless.

The short answer

Most bedroom spiders are harmless and bites are rare. They wander looking for prey. Reduce them by keeping the bed away from walls, avoiding hanging bedding, decluttering, shaking shoes and clothes, vacuuming corners and sealing gaps. Treat any unexplained skin lesions with a doctor's advice instead of assuming a spider bite.

Why they appear

• Insects drawn to lights and food.
• Warm, quiet spaces.

Reduce them

1. Keep beds clear of walls and hanging sheets.
2. Vacuum corners and under furniture.
3. Seal gaps and use screens.
4. Shake out shoes and clothes.

Health

• Most skin problems are not spider bites.
• See a doctor for severe pain, spreading redness or ulceration.

When to call a professional

See a doctor for skin symptoms. Call a pest professional for frequent sightings.

Frequently asked questions

Do spiders crawl on sleepers?

Occasionally, rarely bite.

Should I kill them?

Remove gently if harmless.

Can bites be confirmed?

Often hard to tell.

Will sprays help?

Not much.

This guide is part of IPest's complete resource on household pest control. For identification help, prevention and treatment options, see our full household pest control guide for Bangalore.