How to Get Rid of Daddy Long Legs: A Comprehensive Guide
Daddy long legs, also known as harvestmen, are common arachnids often found in homes and gardens. While they are generally harmless to humans, their presence can be unsettling for some. This comprehensive guide provides detailed steps and instructions on how to effectively get rid of daddy long legs and prevent them from returning.
Understanding Daddy Long Legs
Before diving into removal methods, it’s essential to understand these creatures. Daddy long legs are not spiders, despite their spider-like appearance. They belong to the order Opiliones and are characterized by their small bodies and extremely long, thin legs. They don’t spin webs like spiders, and they lack venom glands. They are scavengers, feeding on decaying organic matter, insects, and other small invertebrates.
Why are They in Your Home?
Daddy long legs are attracted to damp, dark, and sheltered environments. Common entry points include:
* **Cracks and crevices:** Found in foundations, walls, and around windows and doors.
* **Open windows and doors:** Especially during warmer months.
* **Gaps around pipes and utility lines:** Providing easy access points.
* **Areas with high humidity:** Basements, crawl spaces, and bathrooms.
* **Dense vegetation near the house:** Providing shelter and a food source close to your home.
Effective Methods to Get Rid of Daddy Long Legs
Here’s a breakdown of effective methods to eliminate daddy long legs from your home:
1. Prevention is Key
* **Seal Entry Points:**
* **Caulk cracks and crevices:** Use a high-quality sealant to seal any cracks in your foundation, walls, and around windows and doors. Pay close attention to areas where pipes or utility lines enter your home.
* **Weatherstrip windows and doors:** Install or replace weather stripping around windows and doors to create a tight seal. This will prevent daddy long legs and other pests from entering.
* **Repair damaged screens:** Fix or replace any torn or damaged window or door screens to keep insects out.
* **Reduce Humidity:**
* **Use a dehumidifier:** Place a dehumidifier in damp areas like basements and crawl spaces to reduce humidity levels. Aim for a humidity level below 50%.
* **Improve ventilation:** Ensure proper ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens by using exhaust fans during and after showers or cooking. Open windows when possible to allow fresh air circulation.
* **Fix leaky pipes:** Repair any leaky pipes or faucets to prevent water buildup and reduce humidity.
* **Maintain Your Yard:**
* **Trim vegetation:** Keep bushes, shrubs, and trees trimmed back from your house to reduce shelter for daddy long legs and other pests.
* **Remove debris:** Clear away piles of leaves, wood, and other debris from around your foundation. These provide ideal hiding places.
* **Maintain your lawn:** Cut your grass regularly to keep it short and less attractive to pests.
2. Vacuuming
Vacuuming is one of the most effective and immediate ways to remove daddy long legs. Here’s how to do it:
* **Use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment:** This will allow you to reach corners, crevices, and other hard-to-reach areas.
* **Vacuum thoroughly:** Vacuum along baseboards, in corners, under furniture, and in any areas where you have seen daddy long legs.
* **Dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister immediately:** This will prevent the daddy long legs from escaping back into your home. Seal the bag in a plastic bag before disposal.
3. Insecticides (Use with Caution)
While insecticides can be effective, they should be used with caution, especially if you have children or pets. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
* **Residual Sprays:**
* **Choose a product labeled for indoor use:** Look for insecticides that are specifically designed for indoor use and are effective against arachnids.
* **Apply to entry points and hiding places:** Spray along baseboards, around windows and doors, and in cracks and crevices. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask when applying insecticides.
* **Avoid spraying on surfaces that come into contact with food or people:** Focus on treating areas where daddy long legs are likely to hide or enter.
* **Insecticidal Dusts:**
* **Use boric acid or diatomaceous earth:** These are less toxic options that can be effective against daddy long legs and other pests.
* **Apply in cracks, crevices, and wall voids:** Use a duster to apply the dust into hard-to-reach areas. Be careful not to inhale the dust.
* **Reapply as needed:** Insecticidal dusts can lose their effectiveness over time, so reapply as needed.
4. Natural Repellents
If you prefer a more natural approach, several natural repellents can help deter daddy long legs:
* **Essential Oils:**
* **Peppermint oil:** Daddy long legs dislike the strong scent of peppermint. Mix a few drops of peppermint oil with water in a spray bottle and spray around entry points and areas where you have seen daddy long legs.
* **Tea tree oil:** Tea tree oil also has insect-repelling properties. Use it in the same way as peppermint oil.
* **Citrus oils:** Lemon, orange, and grapefruit oils can also be effective repellents. Use diluted citrus oil in a spray bottle.
* **Vinegar:**
* **White vinegar:** Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spray around entry points and areas where you have seen daddy long legs. The acidic nature of vinegar can deter them.
* **Diatomaceous Earth (Food Grade):**
* **Apply a thin layer:** Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth around baseboards, in corners, and in other areas where daddy long legs are likely to travel. Be sure to use food-grade diatomaceous earth, as other types can be harmful.
5. Traps
Traps can be used to catch daddy long legs and remove them from your home. While not as effective as other methods for large infestations, they can be useful for catching individual daddy long legs.
* **Sticky Traps:**
* **Place sticky traps:** Place sticky traps along baseboards, in corners, and near entry points. Daddy long legs will get stuck to the traps when they walk across them.
* **Check traps regularly:** Check the traps regularly and dispose of them when they are full or have caught daddy long legs.
* **DIY Traps:**
* **Jar trap:** Place a small jar with a wide opening near areas where daddy long legs are seen. Put a small amount of bait in the jar, such as a piece of fruit or a damp paper towel. The daddy long legs will crawl into the jar and be unable to get out.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Common Scenarios
Here are step-by-step instructions for addressing common scenarios:
Scenario 1: Daddy Long Legs in the Basement
1. **Assess the Situation:** Identify the areas in your basement where daddy long legs are most prevalent. Look for signs of dampness or humidity.
2. **Reduce Humidity:**
* Place a dehumidifier in the basement to reduce humidity levels.
* Ensure proper ventilation by opening windows or using a fan.
* Fix any leaky pipes or faucets.
3. **Seal Entry Points:**
* Caulk cracks and crevices in the foundation and walls.
* Seal gaps around pipes and utility lines.
4. **Clean the Area:**
* Remove any clutter or debris that could provide shelter for daddy long legs.
* Vacuum the area thoroughly, paying attention to corners and baseboards.
5. **Apply Insecticide (Optional):**
* If necessary, apply a residual insecticide spray to baseboards, corners, and other areas where daddy long legs are likely to hide. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Scenario 2: Daddy Long Legs in the Bathroom
1. **Assess the Situation:** Identify the areas in your bathroom where daddy long legs are most prevalent. Look for signs of dampness or humidity.
2. **Reduce Humidity:**
* Use the exhaust fan during and after showers to remove moisture.
* Open a window to improve ventilation.
* Fix any leaky faucets or showerheads.
3. **Clean the Area:**
* Remove any standing water or damp towels.
* Clean the shower, tub, and sink regularly to remove any food sources.
* Vacuum the area thoroughly, paying attention to corners and baseboards.
4. **Seal Entry Points:**
* Caulk cracks and crevices around the tub, shower, and sink.
* Seal gaps around pipes and utility lines.
5. **Use Natural Repellents:**
* Spray a mixture of peppermint oil and water around the bathroom to deter daddy long legs.
Scenario 3: Daddy Long Legs in the Garden
1. **Assess the Situation:** Identify the areas in your garden where daddy long legs are most prevalent. Look for areas with dense vegetation or damp soil.
2. **Maintain Your Yard:**
* Trim bushes, shrubs, and trees back from your house.
* Remove piles of leaves, wood, and other debris.
* Maintain your lawn by cutting the grass regularly.
3. **Reduce Moisture:**
* Ensure proper drainage in your garden to prevent water from pooling.
* Water plants in the morning to allow the soil to dry out during the day.
4. **Use Natural Repellents:**
* Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around plants to deter daddy long legs.
* Plant insect-repelling plants like marigolds or lavender in your garden.
Long-Term Prevention Strategies
To prevent daddy long legs from returning, it’s essential to implement long-term prevention strategies:
* **Regular Cleaning:**
* Clean your home regularly to remove food sources and hiding places for daddy long legs.
* Vacuum frequently, paying attention to corners, baseboards, and other areas where they are likely to hide.
* Dust regularly to remove cobwebs and other debris.
* **Home Maintenance:**
* Inspect your home regularly for cracks, crevices, and other entry points. Seal any gaps that you find.
* Maintain your yard by trimming vegetation, removing debris, and keeping your lawn short.
* Ensure proper ventilation in your home to reduce humidity levels.
* **Monitor for Infestations:**
* Be vigilant and monitor your home for signs of daddy long legs or other pests.
* Take action immediately if you notice an infestation to prevent it from becoming a larger problem.
Debunking Common Myths About Daddy Long Legs
There are several common myths about daddy long legs that need to be debunked:
* **Myth: Daddy long legs are the most venomous spiders in the world.**
* **Fact:** Daddy long legs are not spiders and do not have venom glands. They are harmless to humans.
* **Myth: Daddy long legs are dangerous to humans.**
* **Fact:** Daddy long legs are not dangerous to humans. They are scavengers that feed on decaying organic matter and other small invertebrates.
* **Myth: Daddy long legs can bite humans but their fangs are too small to penetrate the skin.**
* **Fact:** Daddy long legs do not have fangs or venom glands. They cannot bite humans.
Conclusion
Getting rid of daddy long legs requires a multi-faceted approach that includes prevention, removal, and long-term maintenance. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively eliminate these arachnids from your home and prevent them from returning. Remember to focus on sealing entry points, reducing humidity, maintaining your yard, and using appropriate removal methods. With a little effort, you can enjoy a daddy long legs-free home environment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
* **Are daddy long legs harmful to humans?**
No, daddy long legs are not harmful to humans. They are harmless scavengers.
* **What attracts daddy long legs to my home?**
Daddy long legs are attracted to damp, dark, and sheltered environments, as well as areas with high humidity and abundant food sources.
* **How can I prevent daddy long legs from entering my home?**
Seal entry points, reduce humidity, maintain your yard, and clean your home regularly to prevent daddy long legs from entering.
* **What are some natural ways to repel daddy long legs?**
Essential oils like peppermint and tea tree oil, vinegar, and diatomaceous earth can be used to repel daddy long legs.
* **When should I call a professional pest control service?**
If you have a large infestation or are unable to control the daddy long legs population on your own, it may be necessary to call a professional pest control service.