American house spiders are considerably smaller and create unkempt webs in closets, corners, and other seldom visited places.
These brownish spiders are generally benign and frequently assist by capturing insects that infiltrate your house.
Vacuum webs frequently, clean dusty areas, and block off possible access points to keep them under control. One of the best ways to keep them out of your house is to keep it neat and clutter-free.
More serious are black widow spiders. Their bodies are lustrous black, and the bottom of their abdomens has a pronounced red hourglass appearance.
They favor quiet, dark spaces like sheds, garages, and woodpiles. Their venomous bite can produce serious symptoms, particularly in older people or children.
Wear gloves when inspecting dark areas or moving boxes if you think there may be black widows in or close to your house. Gently remove them with a broom or vacuum.