Can Playing Loud Music Really Keep Spiders Away From Your Home?

If you're terrified of spiders and find one in your home, you might be tempted by any method to get rid of it that doesn't involve going near it. While some online sources suggest that loud music will repel spiders because of the vibrations, this is not necessarily true. Several scientific studies have shown that some species of spiders react to sound and vibrations, but it doesn't necessarily cause them to flee. A 2016 study published in Current Biology found that Phidippus audax jumping spiders froze when exposed to low-frequency sounds, showing that they were startled by the noise. While this species did respond to the sound, they did not run away from the area.

Additionally, a 2022 study written up in PNAS looked at how orb-weaving Larinioides sclopetarius spiders react to sounds at different decibels. Though louder sounds with 88 decibels did get a response from the spiders, they typically stretched themselves out, lifted their legs into the air, crouched, or turned themselves. In some cases, the arachnids would turn in the direction of the speaker producing the sound. Though loud sounds and music can certainly affect spiders, they may not always be able to get rid of the spiders in your home. Other control methods, like diatomaceous earth, are likely more reliable.

Though these studies indicate that certain spiders exhibit specific behaviors when exposed to sound, other spiders may react differently. A 2014 study published in Animal Behaviour (via ScienceDirect) found that vibrations from loud sounds made it more difficult for European garden spiders (Araneus diadematus) to recognize insects caught in their webs. If spiders aren't getting food, they will move on to a location with more available prey, but relying on music to deter them might not be the best method. Even if music did consistently send spiders running, it would be impossible to play it at all hours, meaning that the spiders might return when the music stops, so long as there's food for them in your home. Additionally, there has not yet been scientific research that specifically shows if common household spiders stay away from areas with loud music. To test it for yourself, try playing music when you find a spider in your home and see if it leaves the area or not. 

If you want a natural way to keep spiders away from your home, try spreading food-grade diatomaceous earth near your exterior windows and doors, or any small openings that lead into your home. Food-grade diatomaceous earth is considered safe for humans and will kill spiders. Nonetheless, when working with this substance, wear a face mask and gloves to avoid inhaling the fine powder or drying out your skin.