Home Furniture Pests: Spot, Stop, and Protect Your Belongings

Ever open a closet and feel a creepy crawl? Or notice tiny holes in a wooden chest? Those are signs that pests have moved in and are chewing away at your furniture. The good news is you don’t need a pest‑pro to save your sofa, bed, or bookshelf. Below are the most common culprits, what they look like, and simple steps you can take right now.

Which Pests Target Your Furniture?

Moths and Carpet Beetles love fabrics, wool blankets, and even stored upholstery. Look for tiny larvae, silky webbing, or small holes in cushions. Termites prefer untreated wood and will leave smooth, hollowed‑out sections. You might spot mud tubes near baseboards. Rodents (mice and rats) nibble on soft wood, leather, and even paint, leaving gnaw marks and droppings. Finally, silverfish prefer damp areas and can damage paper‑covered furniture.

Quick Prevention Tips You Can Do Today

1. Clean and Declutter – Dust and vacuum every corner of closets and drawers. Pests thrive in hidden crumbs and debris.

2. Seal Entry Points – Use caulk around baseboards, window frames, and door gaps. Even a tiny crack can become a highway for insects.

3. Control Moisture – Fix leaks, use a dehumidifier in basements, and keep wood furniture away from damp walls. Dry environments are less inviting.

4. Use Natural Deterrents – Cedar chips, lavender sachets, or a few drops of peppermint oil in drawers can repel moths and beetles without chemicals.

5. Consider Mothballs Carefully – Mothballs do work on some insects, but they release strong fumes that are unsafe for kids and pets. If you choose them, place them in sealed containers away from living areas.

6. Inspect New Pieces – Before bringing a new sofa or wooden table inside, give it a thorough check for insects or damage. A quick light test can reveal hidden tunnels.

7. Rotate and Air Out – Every few months, pull out stored items, shake them, and let fresh air circulate. This breaks the life cycle of many pests.

If you spot an active infestation, act fast. Small problems become big repairs quickly, especially with termites that can chew through structural beams.

For severe cases, contact a professional pest‑control service. They can identify the species, apply targeted treatments, and give you a plan to keep your home pest‑free.

Remember, the key is regular maintenance. A quick 10‑minute sweep each week, along with the tricks above, will keep your furniture looking great and your home pest‑free.