How to Know If Your Furniture Has Termites — Before It’s Too Late

 

Introduction

Your wooden furniture adds warmth and character to your home — until termites decide to make it their next meal. The problem? Termite infestations often go unnoticed until the damage is already done. But don’t panic.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to identify early signs of termites in wood furniture, what causes them, and how to treat and prevent termite infestations before they spread.

 

1. What to Do If You Find Termites

Do not ignore even a small sign — termites spread fast. Here is what you can do:

a. Isolate the affected furniture

Move it away from walls or other wooden items to prevent spreading.

**b. Use a termite spray or wood treatment solution

Over-the-counter termite control sprays or boric acid-based wood treatments can stop minor infestations.

c. Expose to sunlight

Termites thrive in dark, damp environments. Placing the furniture outdoors in direct sunlight for a few hours can kill some termites naturally.

d. Call a professional

If you notice widespread damage, it’s best to hire a pest control expert for termite treatment. They’ll assess the severity and suggest the right termite control method — from chemical barriers to baiting systems.

 

2. Why Termites Love Wooden Furniture

Termites feed on cellulose — the main component found in wood. Your furniture, especially if made from soft or untreated wood, is a feast for them.

• Moisture and darkness make perfect nesting conditions.
• Old furniture often goes unchecked for years.
• Poorly ventilated spaces, like attics or basements, attract them.

A little humidity, a few cracks, and they’re in. Understanding why they target wood helps you spot and stop them early.

 

3. Early Signs of Termites in Furniture

The earlier you catch a termite infestation, the easier it is to control. Watch for these telltale signs:

a. Hollow or papery wood

Knock gently on your furniture. If it sounds hollow or breaks easily, termites may have eaten through the inside.

b. Mud tubes or tunnels

Termites build mud tubes along walls, floors, or furniture legs to travel safely and stay moist.

c. Tiny holes and wood dust

Small holes or piles of sawdust-like powder (known as frass) are red flags.

d. Peeling paint or bubbling polish

This could mean moisture buildup from termite activity beneath the surface.

e. Discarded wings

Swarmers (flying termites) shed their wings after finding a place to nest — usually near windows or light sources.

Keep checking wooden cabinets, bed frames, and dining tables, especially those touching walls or floors.

 

4. DIY Tests to Confirm Termite Presence

If you suspect termites but aren’t sure, try these quick checks:

• Screwdriver test: Press gently on suspicious spots; if the wood gives way easily, termites may be inside.
• Flashlight inspection: Shine light into cracks and corners to spot tunnels or mud lines.
• Tap test: Lightly tap wooden surfaces — a hollow sound could indicate internal damage.

These methods can help you identify termite activity in furniture before calling a professional.

 

5. How to Prevent Future Termite Infestations

Prevention is the best form of termite control. A few simple habits can save your furniture and peace of mind:

• Keep humidity low: Use a dehumidifier or ensure good ventilation in wooden rooms.
• Apply termite-resistant polish or oil: Regular maintenance helps seal cracks and repel pests.
• Inspect wooden areas regularly: Pay attention to corners, joints, and the bottom of furniture legs.
• Avoid keeping furniture directly against walls: Leave some gap for airflow and inspection.
• Use anti-termite wood coatings: Especially for new furniture or home renovations.

Investing a little time in care and maintenance goes a long way in keeping your home termite-free.

 

Conclusion

Termites might be small, but their damage isn’t. They work quietly, hollowing out your furniture from the inside until it’s too late.

By learning how to know if your furniture has termites and spotting early warning signs — from hollow wood to mud tunnels — you can act before serious damage occurs. Combine regular inspections, DIY prevention, and professional termite control services when needed to keep your wooden furniture and home safe.

If you notice severe termite activity or multiple pieces of furniture showing damage, don’t wait — reach out to AJL Pest Control Services. A quick inspection and professional treatment plan can save your furniture and your peace of mind.