anonyme
The term “house spider” could probably use some clarification. I also doubt that most people finding a spider in their home could identify it accurately enough to know the difference.
Your house (all houses) are full of spiders, but lots of them aren’t sharing your actual living space. They’re inside walls, attics, basements, and crawl spaces. Many (like Tegenaria agrestis, the Hobo spider) are outdoor spiders that have adapted to live on houses (not in them) – generally under siding and around plants near the foundation. Many spiders (like some ants) accidentally find their way inside for just this reason – they just took a wrong turn and ended up in your kitchen. Putting out a “house spider” during mild weather will not kill it. They’ll just make their way back toward their preferred environment as quickly as possible. Spiders are highly adaptable.
Jeannie, I like your approach!