If You Spot These Mysterious Black Dots in Your Kitchen, Here’s What You Need to Do

A concerned mother recently took to Facebook in search of answers after discovering strange black specks scattered throughout her home. She posted several photos in a Mrs. Hinch fan group, showing the odd marks on her skirting boards, wallpaper, and floors. Desperate for an explanation, she turned to fellow group members for advice.

“Does anyone have any idea what this is?” she asked. “These marks appeared within the past week on the skirting board in my dining room. I’ve also noticed them on the wallpaper and even on the floor, which I mop daily! They aren’t raised or bumpy. It almost looks like paint splatter, but I know for sure it’s not paint.”

Within minutes, comments poured in, with one common answer emerging—spider droppings.

Fans of cleaning expert Mrs. Hinch were quick to weigh in. “This happens a lot during this time of year. Spiders are leaving their droppings everywhere,” one user explained. Another commented, “That’s spider poo. I always find the same thing on my window sills after they’ve eaten flies.” Others debated whether the spots could be fly droppings, but one confident commenter declared, “It’s definitely spider poo, no doubt about it!”

So, what do the experts say? Is spider waste a real issue, and could it actually be responsible for these unsightly marks?

Understanding Spider Droppings

According to experts, spiders do produce waste, but unlike many people assume, their droppings aren’t solid. Instead, spider excrement has a thick, liquid consistency, often appearing as dark ink-like stains or small drips on surfaces such as walls and floors. Because of its texture, it can sometimes be mistaken for paint splatters or even mold, especially by those unfamiliar with it.

The appearance of spider droppings can vary slightly depending on the species, making it difficult to identify for the untrained eye. However, they generally appear as small, irregular spots, about the size of a pinhead. The color can range from black to dark brown, gray, or even white. Unlike waste from other household pests, spider droppings don’t have a solid form, which is why they often seep into porous surfaces.

Where Are Spider Droppings Found?

Spiders prefer undisturbed, dark areas where they can spin webs without being disturbed. This means their droppings are most commonly found in the same places—underneath webs, in corners of rooms, on ceilings, and along baseboards where cobwebs tend to accumulate. If left unchecked, these stains can build up over time, creating an unsightly mess that can be challenging to remove.

Are Spider Droppings Dangerous?

While the idea of spider droppings in your home might sound unappealing, experts reassure homeowners that they are generally harmless. Research suggests that spiders don’t transmit diseases to humans through their waste, even if they consume infected insects. However, like any waste, it’s always best to handle spider droppings with caution.

Experts recommend wearing gloves when cleaning the stains and washing your hands thoroughly afterward. Fresh droppings can usually be wiped away with a household cleaner and a cloth, but dried stains may require extra effort. In some cases, old stains may leave faint yellowish marks on porous surfaces like painted walls or wood.

How to Get Rid of Spider Droppings

The key to handling spider droppings is not just cleaning them but also addressing the root cause—spiders in your home.

Cleaning the Droppings

• Use a general household cleaner or diluted white vinegar to wipe down affected areas.
• If stains are stubborn, try using a magic eraser or a mild bleach solution.
• Regularly dust and vacuum corners, ceilings, and areas where webs tend to appear.

Preventing Future Spider Infestations

1. Declutter Your Home – Spiders thrive in undisturbed areas. Keep storage spaces tidy and free of excessive clutter.
2. Seal Entry Points – Check for gaps around windows, doors, and vents. Spiders can sneak in through even the tiniest cracks.
3. Remove Webs Promptly – Regularly inspect your home for spider webs and remove them immediately.
4. Use Natural Spider Repellents – Essential oils like peppermint and tea tree oil are known to deter spiders. Mix a few drops with water and spray around windows and doors.
5. Try Sticky Traps – If you suspect an infestation, use spider traps in problem areas.
6. Consider Professional Help – If spider activity persists despite your best efforts, calling a pest control expert may be the most effective solution.

A Lesson from Social Media

For the mother who first posted about her strange black marks on Facebook, the responses likely provided more information than she ever expected. From DIY cleaning tips to debates over whether the stains could be fly droppings instead, one thing was clear—she wasn’t alone. Many homeowners experience this issue, particularly during certain seasons when spiders become more active indoors.

While the presence of spiders and their droppings might not be the most pleasant thought, taking proactive steps to clean and prevent infestations can ensure that these unwanted marks don’t return. Regular cleaning, sealing off entry points, and using natural repellents can go a long way in keeping spiders—and their droppings—out of your home.