Does vacuuming kill spiders? Given our unhealthy interest in providing great vacuum cleaner information, we thought we’d try to answer!
Does Vacuuming Kill Spiders?
The quick answer to the question is most likely yes. It depends a bit on what type of skin they possess. If their skin is fragile then the spiders will almost certainly die.
If being sucked through the hose doesn’t do the job then the dirt and dust in the vacuum bag will finish off the little creatures via suffocation.
The spider might survive inside the vacuum bag for some time, but will eventually expire if it can’t get out.
Is It Unethical to Kill a Spider?
It is not illegal or wrong to kill spiders, even with a vacuum, though you might get into a little trouble if you use a handgun or flamethrower. No one is going to report you to the insect police if you do happen to use your vacuum to free your home from these little creatures.
Second, there is nothing wrong with ridding your home of spiders for they are invaders and not invited, house broken guests. Depending upon the variety of spider that does make itself a part of your home décor, they can be dangerous to your children and pets. It might be best to get rid of them altogether and put salve on your conscience later.
Related: Britain’s Most Dangerous Spiders
That said, I personally am a long-time spider-hater who has reformed his ways. We now share a common enemy – the loathsome fly – and I see spiders as great allies. I do sometimes get queasy watching them walk around on my floors and walls, but I found that it gets easier and easier to share a home with them.
These days I’d only vacuum a spider if I knew it was venomous.
This Guy Made a Fly and Spider Catcher