If there’s one insect that is an enemy to wood, it’s termites. Of course, termites should be dealt with by professionals, but we found some tips on the National Geographic: Green Living website on handling them on your own – at least until you have time to schedule an appointment. This is especially useful if you have some piece of furniture that has been targeted and you want to take action right away.
Cardboard Trap
Exterminators often use cardboard for bait traps because it contains an organic compound called cellulose that is attractive to termites. Create your own cardboard trap by spraying three or four pieces of cardboard with water. Stack the damp cardboard together and place the trap near the furniture, which will draw the termites to the cellulose and into the dampness of the cardboard. Leave the cardboard trap in place for two to three days. Remove the trap and burn it to dispose of the trapped termites.
Sunlight
Termites prefer dark areas, so one natural approach calls for setting the furniture outdoors in the direct sunlight on a hot, sunny day. Rotate the furniture throughout the day to ensure that heat and sunlight reach any termites trying to hide. If there is no sign of rain for several days, you may wish to use the cardboard trap in conjunction with the sunlight to maximize termite removal.
Freeze It
If the piece of furniture is quite small and you have a large enough freezer to accommodate it, consider getting rid of your termite infestation by putting the item in the freezer. Place the furniture into a sealable garbage bag and leave in the freezer for about two weeks. Once you remove the item from the freezer, allow it to stay in the bag for two more days to keep moisture from developing on the wood as it returns to room temperature. If the furniture is too large to go into the freezer, consider removing the infested pieces, such as drawers or chair legs, and giving them the cold treatment separately.
Eliminate Moisture
Termites thrive when water is present in dark areas. Move the furniture away from lingering moisture and relocate it to a dry location with sunlight. Treat the moisture problem in the room and allow the area to dry completely before returning the furniture to the location. You may find that you still need to use another method to eliminate the termites. Try the sunlight or freezing technique to treat the furniture before you return it to the room.