What to Do If You Spot Mysterious Black Dots in Your Kitchen
Have you ever noticed mysterious black specks appearing in your home and wondered what they might be? One concerned mother recently turned to Facebook for help after discovering dark droppings scattered around her kitchen and dining room. She shared several pictures of the marks along her skirting boards and walls, asking if anyone could identify them.
The Mysterious Droppings: Spider Poop?
In her post on a Mrs. Hinch fan page, the mother shared that the spots had appeared over the past week. She described the dots as looking like “paint splatters,” but insisted they weren’t. The marks were found not only on the skirting boards but also on the wallpaper and floor, which she cleaned every day.
The Common Answer: Spider Poop
Her fellow Mrs. Hinch fans quickly jumped to the conclusion that the marks were likely spider droppings. Many users confidently agreed, commenting that it’s common to see spider poo during this time of year. One user explained, “Spiders poo everywhere, especially after eating flies,” while another recommended using Dettol spray for cleaning it up. There were a few who suggested the droppings could also be from flies, but most were certain it was spider poo.
What Do the Experts Say?
Experts confirm that spiders’ droppings are not solid but instead consist of thick, liquid excrement. The marks left behind are usually dark and resemble ink stains. These stains can appear on walls, skirting boards, and other surfaces, often below where the spider has made its web. The droppings are typically small—about the size of a pinhead—and can vary in color, ranging from black to brown, gray, or even white.
Since spiders prefer dark, undisturbed places, their droppings can appear in various unexpected locations, not just in corners where webs are found. The appearance of spider droppings can vary depending on the species of spider, making it tricky to identify without expertise.
Is Spider Poop Harmful?
Although spider droppings are not known to transmit diseases, it’s always a good idea to handle them carefully, as with any pest-related waste. Studies have shown that the pathogens spiders ingest typically do not pass through to their droppings. However, it’s important to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after cleaning up spider poo to avoid any potential risks.
Fresh spider droppings are relatively easy to clean, but dried ones may be more stubborn and could leave behind yellow stains. It’s also worth noting that cleaning the droppings does not solve the problem of the spiders themselves. To prevent them from reappearing, you’ll need to remove spider webs regularly and consider pest control measures. There are various cleaning products and professional services that can help with infestations if needed.
Conclusion
If you find black dots around your home, chances are it’s just spider droppings, and while they’re not dangerous, it’s still important to clean them up properly. If the problem persists, consider taking steps to deal with any potential spider infestations in your home.