How to get rid of spider crickets in the basement?

"What’s the difference between a camel cricket and a spider cricket, and how do I get rid of them?"

Camel crickets, spider crickets, and cave crickets are all the same pest. The names are used interchangeably across different parts of the country, and you may also hear them called "sprickets." Camel crickets are humpbacked, long-legged insects that love dark and damp basements.

You’ll get cave crickets in the basement for two reasons: moisture and shelter. They thrive in cool, damp environments and will move indoors when conditions outside become too dry or too cold. 

How to get rid of spider crickets

A few steps can help reduce numbers and make your basement less welcoming:

• Reduce moisture: A dehumidifier is one of the most effective tools. Spider crickets struggle in dry environments.
• Declutter: Remove cardboard boxes, paper bags, and piles of fabric. These are both hiding spots and food sources.
• Seal entry points: Check for gaps around pipes, foundation cracks, and gaps under doors. Sealing these off cuts off their route in.

If spider crickets keep coming back, it usually means there's an underlying moisture issue or entry point that hasn't been found. That's where professional cricket control can make a real difference.