If You Spot These Mysterious Black Dots in Your Kitchen, Here’s What to Do
A concerned mother recently took to Facebook after noticing strange black specks appearing throughout her home. She shared photos of the mysterious marks scattered across her skirting board, wallpaper, and floor, hoping to get answers from members of a cleaning group inspired by the influencer Mrs. Hinch. Desperate for insight, she wrote:
“Does anyone know what this could be? These marks just appeared over the past week on the skirting board in my dining room. I’ve also found them on the wallpaper and even on the floor, which I mop daily! They’re not raised or bumpy; they look like tiny splatters of paint, but they’re definitely not paint.”
Within minutes, her post was flooded with responses, and a common theory quickly emerged: spider droppings.
Fans of Mrs. Hinch were quick to offer their opinions. “It happens a lot this time of year. Spiders are leaving droppings everywhere,” one user commented. “Dettox spray works well to clean it up.” Another added, “I get the same thing on my window sills after spiders eat flies.” While a few suggested it could be fly droppings, one user insisted, “It’s definitely spider poo, no question about it!”
But what do experts say? Do spiders really leave droppings, and could they be responsible for these odd black spots?
What Are Spider Droppings?
According to pest control professionals, spiders do leave excrement, but it’s not solid like that of larger animals. Instead, spider droppings are thick and liquid, resembling ink stains or small drips. Their appearance can vary depending on the species, but they generally look like tiny, irregular spots about the size of a pinhead. The color can range from black to dark brown, gray, or even white, and their liquid nature often confuses homeowners who are unfamiliar with them.
Where Are Spider Droppings Commonly Found?
Spiders prefer dark, undisturbed areas where they can build their webs and hunt for prey. Their droppings tend to accumulate beneath their webs, in room corners, on ceilings, or along skirting boards where cobwebs form. If left uncleaned, these stains can build up over time and become an unsightly mess that’s difficult to remove, especially on porous surfaces.
Are Spider Droppings Dangerous?
While the idea of spider waste might be unpleasant, experts assure homeowners that spider droppings pose no direct health risks. Research indicates that spiders do not transmit diseases to humans through their waste, even if they consume infected insects. However, it’s always best to handle the cleanup with care.
To be on the safe side, experts recommend wearing gloves when cleaning spider droppings and washing your hands thoroughly afterward. Fresh droppings are relatively easy to wipe away with a damp cloth and a standard household cleaner. However, dried droppings can be more stubborn and may require a bit more effort. In some cases, older stains can leave a faint yellow discoloration, particularly on wallpaper or porous materials.
How to Prevent Spider Droppings in Your Home
Cleaning up the droppings is only a temporary solution. If you notice spider waste in your home, it’s a sign that spiders are living there, too. To prevent them from coming back, you need to address the root of the problem.
Here are some effective ways to deter spiders from taking up residence in your home:
- Keep Your Home Clean and Clutter-Free: Spiders thrive in undisturbed spaces like basements, attics, and unused corners. Regularly dusting, vacuuming, and removing cobwebs will make your home less inviting to them.
- Seal Entry Points: Check for cracks or gaps around windows, doors, and vents. Sealing these openings can prevent spiders from getting inside in the first place.
- Use Natural Repellents: Many homeowners swear by diluted white vinegar or essential oils like peppermint and tea tree oil to keep spiders away. Spraying these solutions in areas where spiders tend to lurk can help repel them naturally.
- Limit Other Insects: Since spiders primarily feed on insects, reducing the presence of flies, mosquitoes, and ants in your home will naturally make it less attractive to them.
- Consider Professional Pest Control: If spider infestations persist, calling an expert might be the best course of action. A professional pest control service can safely eliminate spiders and implement long-term solutions to keep them from returning.
Conclusion
If you’ve spotted mysterious black marks on your walls, floor, or furniture, spider droppings could very well be the culprit. While spider waste isn’t harmful to humans, it’s important to clean it promptly and take steps to prevent future infestations. Regularly maintaining a clean home, sealing entry points, and using natural deterrents can significantly reduce spider activity. And if the problem persists, professional pest control services are always a reliable option.
As for the mother who first raised the question on Facebook, she received more advice than she likely expected. From cleaning solutions to debates over whether it might be fly droppings instead, one thing became clear: she wasn’t alone. Many homeowners deal with spider waste, especially during certain times of the year. While the thought of spiders hiding in your home may be unsettling, being proactive about cleaning and pest control can help ensure those pesky black spots don’t return.
