{
  "id": 7956289,
  "title": "I just spotted two false widow spiders in my home — and this surprising location attracts them",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/17/i-just-spotted-two-false-widow-spiders-in-my-home-and-this-surprising",
  "topic": "science",
  "section": "Science",
  "published": "2026-09-17T05:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Tom's Guide",
    "slug": "tom-s-guide",
    "url": "https://www.tomsguide.com/home/i-just-spotted-two-false-widow-spiders-in-my-home-and-this-surprising-location-attracts-them"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "I have encountered numerous false widow spiders in my compact en-suite bathroom. The window in this room remains open throughout the year to prevent mold and condensation accumulation, as well as to allow air circulation in our bedroom. However, this practice has attracted certain spiders, particularly during the summer. Until last week, I believed these spiders were confined to this single room. But, I recently discovered a larger one in our living room. The reason? A dried flower bouquet that I've had for four years, since my wedding day, is the ideal breeding and sleeping spot for spiders. Surprisingly, this is the last place one would expect to find such pests. Therefore, it's advisable to check your pampas grass or dried blooms for signs of spiders. If you're brave enough, that is... Spiders are attracted to tightly packed spaces that remain undisturbed for extended periods. Consequently, a bunch of dried flowers provides the perfect environment for a spider to hide, with numerous sheltered gaps and web-spinning opportunities. Additionally, there may be other tiny insects living in the bouquet, unbeknownst to the owner, which serves as a food source for the spider. The spider itself does not consume the flowers, but uses them as a base. While I initially panicked and discarded my bouquet after confirming it was a false widow spider, I later realized this was premature. Luckily, I still possess three similar bouquets in my house. I plan to remove each bunch from my home and shake it outdoors, away from windows, to rid it of spiders. It's also wise to apply hairspray to your flowers, not to deter spiders, but to minimize further shedding as they remain stationary on your shelf. Vacuuming around this area and checking for webs is recommended, along with inspecting stems for eggs. If discovered, decide whether to discard the stem or remove and dispose of the egg. If you wish to prevent spiders from returning, consider using natural deterrents instead of chemical sprays, which could harm your flowers. These pouches, powered by essential oils, are safe and effective, lasting approximately 30 days. Place them in your vase and replace when necessary. Additionally, consider the location of your bouquet, as this factor could also attract more spiders. Avoid placing it in dark corners or near windows and doors that are frequently left open.",
  "summary": "Give this decor item a good clean if you have one in your home — I threw mine away instead, but there are preventative measures.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}