Photo: Esin Üstün from Istanbul, Turkey · CC BY 2.0
Steatoda species
Identify Brown House Spiders in Australia
Small brown comb-footed spider in messy indoor webs, sometimes confused with redbacks or false widows.
Usually low riskFirst aid / what to do now
- Move away from the spider and avoid handling it.
- Wash the bite area with soap and water.
- Use a cold pack for pain or swelling.
- Call 13 11 26 or seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, spreading, infected-looking, allergic, or you are unsure what bit you.
This site cannot diagnose a bite. In an emergency call 000. For poisoning advice in Australia call 13 11 26.
Quick identification
- Small brown rounded body
- Messy indoor web
- May have pale patterning
- Can be confused with redbacks without the clear red stripe
Danger level
Usually low risk
What to check next
Check for redback-like shape but absence of a strong red stripe or hourglass mark.
When to seek medical help
Seek medical advice if pain is severe or symptoms spread beyond the bite site.
Where it is usually seen
Cupboards, corners, sheds, garages and sheltered indoor spaces.
Similar spiders
Use the homepage identifier to compare this spider against other Australian spiders by size, colour, location and web clues.