Arizona is home to dozens of spider species, and many East Valley homeowners encounter them regularly. Cummings Pest Control has been helping families in Scottsdale, Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, and surrounding communities manage spiders for over 50 years.
What dangerous spiders are found in the East Valley? +
The two medically significant spiders in the Scottsdale, Mesa, and greater East Valley area are the black widow and the Arizona brown spider (a relative of the brown recluse). Black widows are the more commonly encountered of the two and are easily identified by their glossy black body and red hourglass marking on the underside of the abdomen. Both species prefer dark, undisturbed areas like garages, sheds, and block wall fences.
Are black widow spiders common in Arizona? +
Yes, black widows are very common throughout the East Valley. They thrive in Arizona’s warm, dry climate and are frequently found in garages, under patio furniture, inside irrigation valve boxes, in block wall fence caps, and around outdoor storage areas. Cummings Pest Control treats hundreds of properties for black widows every year across Scottsdale, Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Fountain Hills, Paradise Valley, and Rio Verde.
What should I do if I get bitten by a spider? +
If you suspect a black widow bite, seek medical attention promptly. Black widow venom is a neurotoxin that can cause muscle pain, cramping, nausea, and in severe cases, difficulty breathing. Clean the bite area, apply ice, and get to an urgent care or emergency room. If possible, capture or photograph the spider for identification. Most spider bites from non-venomous species cause only minor irritation that resolves on its own.
Why are there so many spiders around my house? +
Spiders go where their food is. If you have a lot of spiders, it usually means you have a healthy population of insects — crickets, flies, moths, and other bugs — that the spiders are feeding on. Outdoor lighting that attracts insects at night is a major contributor. Cummings Pest Control addresses spider problems by treating for both the spiders and their prey, which reduces the spider population over time.
How does Cummings Pest Control treat for spiders? +
Our spider control program targets spiders directly and reduces their food supply. We apply residual treatments around your home’s exterior perimeter, focusing on common harborage areas like eaves, block wall fences, garages, and landscape features. We also knock down existing webs and egg sacs. By treating for crickets and other prey insects simultaneously, we make your property less attractive to spiders overall.
Do those giant spiders I see in my yard bite? +
The large spiders commonly seen in East Valley yards are usually desert tarantulas, which are most visible during late summer and fall when males wander in search of mates. While tarantulas can bite if provoked, their venom is mild — comparable to a bee sting for most people. They are generally docile and beneficial predators. Wolf spiders, another large species found locally, are also relatively harmless despite their intimidating appearance.
Can I use essential oils or natural remedies to repel spiders? +
While some people report that peppermint oil and other essential oils deter spiders, there is limited scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness as a reliable pest control method. These remedies may provide temporary relief in small areas but will not address an established spider population. For consistent results, professional treatment from Cummings Pest Control is the most effective approach, especially for venomous species like black widows.
How often should I have my home treated for spiders in Arizona? +
We recommend regular treatments every one to two months for homes in the East Valley. Spider activity peaks during the warmer months but continues year-round in Arizona’s mild climate. Cummings Pest Control’s maintenance plans keep spider populations consistently low by targeting both spiders and their insect prey throughout the year.
I keep finding spiders in my garage. How do I keep them out? +
Garages are one of the most common places for spider activity because they offer shelter, warmth, and plenty of prey insects attracted to garage lights. Keep your garage clean and reduce clutter where spiders can hide. Seal gaps around the garage door and any entry points. Replace white exterior lights with yellow or amber bug lights that attract fewer insects. And make sure your garage is included in your regular pest control treatment from Cummings Pest Control.
Are spider treatments safe for my pets? +
Yes. Cummings Pest Control uses EPA-registered products applied by licensed professionals following all safety guidelines. We apply treatments primarily to exterior perimeters and targeted areas. We recommend keeping pets off treated surfaces until they are dry, which typically takes about 30 minutes. Our technicians will always advise you on any specific precautions for your treatment.