Discovering termites in furniture is alarming, but it's a problem that can be resolved with the right approach. Drywood termites — the species most commonly found in furniture — live entirely within the wood they infest and don't require soil contact. This makes them particularly difficult to detect until damage is visible or frass appears.

The first step is confirming you're actually dealing with termites and not another wood-destroying insect. Termite frass is distinctive: small, oval pellets with six flat or concave sides, often described as looking like coarse pepper or coffee grounds. If you find frass beneath or near a piece of furniture, inspect the wood closely for small exit holes about 1mm in diameter where termites have pushed droppings out of the gallery.

Isolation is critical. Move the affected piece away from other wood furniture and structural wood immediately. While drywood termites don't spread as aggressively as subterranean species, an infested piece kept in contact with other wood creates risk of cross-infestation.

Heat treatment is one of the most effective methods for treating individual pieces of furniture. Exposing the piece to temperatures above 120°F for at least 30 minutes kills all termites and eggs within the wood. Professional heat treatment companies can treat individual pieces, or for smaller items, a hot car or enclosed trailer on a summer Arizona day can reach effective temperatures.

Freezing works in the opposite direction. Extended exposure to temperatures below 20°F for 72 hours or more kills termites at all life stages. This is practical for smaller furniture pieces that can be placed in a large chest freezer.

Microwave treatment is available through some pest control companies and works by heating wood from the inside out, effectively cooking termites within galleries without damaging the piece externally. It's particularly useful for antiques or pieces where heat or freezing might cause damage.

Chemical injection using termiticides rated for drywood termites involves injecting product directly into galleries through exit holes. This is effective but requires thorough application to reach all active termites throughout the piece. Professional application is recommended for valuable furniture.