If you have a full-blown infestation (like seeing 10+ spiders a week, or finding webs the size of a pizza), it’s time to call an exterminator. Most spiders are harmless, but a few—like the brown recluse or black widow—are medical emergencies. If you see a spider with a violin-shaped mark on its back, that’s a fancy-looking danger noodle. Call a pro. Don’t try to be a hero.
Also, remember this surprising fact: the average house spider can jump up to 50 times its own body length. That’s like you jumping over a school bus. So if you try to whack one with a shoe and miss, it’s now chasing you from a different zip code. Just use a vacuum attachment—it’s safer for both of you.