Dusting furniture is easy to remember and easy to do – but what about getting rid of those pesky cobwebs? Hiding away in hard-to-reach spaces, they can give a nasty surprise when discovered.
Getting rid of creepy spider webs can be a lot easier and less daunting than you may think. Follow these easy solutions and you can kiss goodbye to spiders lurking in the places you want to enjoy.
It’ll be fake spider webs only this Halloween!
Getting rid of creepy spider webs can be a lot easier and less daunting than you may think. Picture: Getty
The perfect tool
When clearing cobwebs both internally and externally, the perfect tool is one that can be purchased for a reasonable price from the local hardware store.
Funnily enough, it’s called a cobweb duster; it has hard bristles, a cone-shaped head and attaches to an extension pole.
For standard height ceilings or single-storey properties, usually, a 1.2m length is perfect. Should your ceilings be gorgeously high or when working with a two-storey dwelling, you can remove the brush head and attach to a 3m extension pole.
This will avoid any risk when awkwardly balancing on a ladder.
The perfect cobweb-clearing tool. Picture: Getty
I also recommend buying at least two brush heads, that way you can dedicate one for external use, and won’t bring any unwanted nasties inside.
To use, simply wipe or twirl the head around the area to capture any cobwebs. When done, wash the brush head under the tap, let dry and it’s ready for use next time.
Let’s get creative:
- A simple sock and a stick can be an effective (and super cheap) alternative to remove cobwebs. It’s also better than a vacuum which can leave scratches on your wall. Place a thick old sock over a mop pole (you hold the brush end) or an extender pole, then wipe across the cobwebs.
- Having a party? Then make time for a quick cobweb scout before your guests arrive. Take one of the helium balloons, and as it floats high, move it through the cobweb area, watching as the webs cling to the balloon. Best to only do this one inside to avoid sharp edges.
Ceiling cornices are prone to getting cobwebs. Picture: Getty
Where are cobwebs hiding?
Cobwebs are usually found up high on the ceiling cornice, between window panels, or along external guttering. But what other sneaky places will you spot a web?
- The corners of plantation shutters. Simply open the shutters and push through your cobweb duster or sock on a pole to remove.
- In your bathroom around the ceiling exhaust fan. Again, use the cobweb brush to remove any signs of webs.
- Air-conditioning vents. The filters should be changed or washed at least every six months. In between, give them a once-over using your cobweb brush.
Still freaked out having to go near these cobwebs?
Prevention is key to getting rid of the spiders in the first place. Avoid using pesticides where possible as the fumes can be dangerous to your kids and pets.
Instead, to discourage spiders setting up shop in your home, install motion active lights outside or change to yellow bulbs to attract fewer insects. Without the insects for food, the spiders will move on to greener pastures (outside of your home!).
Cobwebs can come back within days, so it’s best to keep this quick action as part of your regular cleaning routine. Or call in the experts and they’ll take care of it for you, while you enjoy the less spooky side of Halloween!
Originally published as Halloween clean: How to banish those cobwebs by Elke Keeley. Author at realestate.com.au.
