Get Rid Of Bedroom Termites: Effective Strategies Revealed

Termites are a common pest that can cause significant damage to your home, compromising its structural integrity and resulting in costly repairs if left untreated. These insects feed on cellulose, which is found in wood and plant materials, and they often remain undetected for long periods, quietly damaging the framework of a home. To protect your home and ensure your safety, it is crucial to address a termite infestation promptly and effectively. This involves understanding the types of termites, recognizing the early signs of an infestation, conducting a thorough inspection, and selecting the appropriate treatment method. This guide will provide comprehensive information on how to get rid of termites in your bedroom and prevent future infestations.

Identify the type of termite

Termites are known as "silent destroyers" due to their ability to cause extensive damage to wooden structures without being detected. They are tiny, usually about a quarter of an inch to half an inch in length, and are difficult to spot. However, knowing the type of termite can help you identify the signs of an infestation and implement effective control measures. Here are some common types of termites and how to identify them:

Subterranean Termites

Subterranean termites are the most common type of termite in the United States, found in all states except Alaska. They nest underground and build distinctive "mud tubes" to reach wood in houses. Their colonies can range from several hundred thousand to a million members, and they are known for their ability to eat through various materials to get to the wood. Subterranean termites are creamy white to dark brown or black, about 1/8 inch long, and live in underground colonies or moist, secluded above-ground areas. They require certain temperatures and humidity levels to survive, so their tunnels help block out cool, dry air.

Formosan Termites

Formosan termites are similar in colour to subterranean termites but can grow up to 1/2 an inch long. They are found in Hawaii, California, and the southern United States. This species is the most aggressive known termite, capable of consuming one foot of 2x4 wood in just 25 days. They live in huge underground colonies, building intricate mud nests inside the walls of structures. Formosan termites are extremely destructive and can cause severe structural damage in as little as six months.

Drywood Termites

Drywood termites do not require contact with the soil and usually infest undecayed wood. They are typically between 3/8 and one inch long and often establish nests in roof materials, wooden wall supports, and dead wood around homes. They can even infest wood furniture and framing if they gain indoor access. Drywood termites are found in the southern states, from North Carolina through the Gulf Coast and into the coastal areas of California. They form colonies of up to 2,500 members and usually swarm on warm, sunny days after a sudden rise in temperature. These termites leave behind small piles of feces that resemble pellets or coffee grounds.

Dampwood Termites

Dampwood termites infest wood with high moisture content, such as dead trees or logs, and are typically found in the Pacific coastal and adjacent states, the desert or semi-arid southwest, and southern Florida. This species is between 1/2 and 5/8 of an inch long. While they don't usually infest structures due to their need for excessive moisture, they can cause serious property damage if they find their way inside. Dampwood termites are attracted to water-damaged areas, such as spaces with cracked drain pipes or roof leaks.

Conehead Termites

Conehead termites are named for the cone-shaped heads of their soldiers. Unlike other species, they travel above ground like ants instead of using underground tunnels. This allows them to move faster and more efficiently. Conehead termites can still construct tunnels through walls and wood flooring, allowing them to go unnoticed for long periods. They are primarily found in various southern regions of Florida, and any infestation could have a significant impact on the structural integrity of a building.

Use boric acid or borax

Boric acid, also known as borax, is a popular and effective way to get rid of termites. It is a natural pesticide and wood preservative that is safe for humans, plants, and animals when used correctly. Here are some detailed instructions on how to use boric acid or borax to eliminate termites from your bedroom:

Preparation

Before using boric acid, it is important to take some precautionary measures. Ensure that you are wearing protective gear, such as gloves and a mask, to avoid any direct contact with the substance. Additionally, be cautious to avoid breathing in the boric acid dust and always follow the instructions on the product label.

Application

Boric acid can be applied in various forms, including powder, spray, solution, foam, and gel. The powder form can be used to treat cracks and crevices in wooden structures. You can also create a borax solution by dissolving the powder in warm water (a 1:1 dilution is recommended). This solution can then be sprayed into infested soil, trenches, or "painted" onto wooden surfaces. For wall voids, drilled holes, and nest openings, you can use borax foams, which are injected into these spaces.

Mechanism of Action

Boric acid does not work on contact with termites. Instead, it needs to be ingested by the insects. When termites walk through borax dust, the particles stick to their bodies, antennae, and legs. As they groom themselves, they ingest the borate toxin. Once ingested, boric acid disrupts the termite's digestion and nervous system, eventually leading to death by dehydration.

Baiting

Another method of using boric acid is through baiting systems. Prepare a borax solution by dissolving the powder in warm water, following the recommended dilution ratio. Fill bait stations with this solution and place them in areas where termite activity is observed. The termites will be attracted to the bait and ingest the poison, which they will then carry back to their colony, effectively spreading it to other termites.

Combination with Other Treatments

While boric acid is effective in controlling termites, it may require multiple applications due to its slow-acting nature. It is often recommended to use boric acid in combination with other products to treat an entire infested area effectively. Additionally, consider using preventive measures, such as regular inspections and proper wood treatment, to ensure long-term protection against termite infestations.

Use essential oils

Essential oils are an effective way to get rid of termites in your bedroom. They are a natural, non-toxic, and eco-friendly alternative to chemical treatments. The active ingredient in essential oils, d-limonene, is neurotoxic to insects and helps kill termites through direct contact during feeding and mutual grooming.

• Tea tree oil
• Catmint oil
• Orange oil
• Lemon oil
• Bigarade oil
• Neem oil
• Cinnamon oil
• Vetiver oil
• Basil oil
• Citronella oil

To make a termite repellent spray, mix 4 drops of any of the above oils with one gallon of water. Fill a vaporizer with this solution and spray it directly onto structural lumber and other wooden items. The d-limonene from the essential oil solution will be absorbed by wooden surfaces, and its smell will repel termites.

You can also use essential oils in homemade bottle stoppers. Place pieces of cotton wool into the bottle stoppers and add a few drops of oil with d-limonene. Use these homemade repellents in the attic, basement, under/in firewood piles, and inside furniture drawers and cupboards. Remember to replace them regularly.

It is important to note that while essential oils are effective in treating and repelling termites, repeated treatments are required regularly for ongoing protection.

Repair wooden structures

Repairing wooden structures is a crucial step in eliminating drywood termites. Here are some detailed instructions to help you effectively repair and treat the affected wooden structures:

Identify the Infestation:

Before starting the repair process, it is essential to confirm the presence of drywood termites. Look for common signs of termite activity, such as small holes in wooden structures, discarded wings, termite droppings (frass), or hollow-sounding wood.

Drill Holes in the Infested Wood:

Once you've identified the infested wood, use a drill or screwdriver to make holes approximately every 10 inches in the wood. Drill until you feel resistance, indicating that you've reached the termite nest.

Fill the Holes with Termiticide:

After drilling the holes, fill them with termiticide, a chemical designed to kill termites. Ensure you use a termiticide that is safe for indoor use and follow the instructions on the product label.

Seal the Holes:

Allow the termiticide to take effect, then seal the holes with putty or wood filler. This will help restore the structural integrity of the wooden structures and prevent further termite infestations.

Focus on Finished or Painted Wood:

This method of repairing wooden structures is most suitable for finished or painted wood. If you have high-quality hardwoods, consider seeking professional advice to determine the best treatment option.

Combine with Other Treatments:

Repairing wooden structures is an effective way to eliminate drywood termites, but for severe infestations, combining it with other treatments such as essential oils or professional extermination services may be necessary.

Remember, drywood termites can cause extensive damage to wooden structures, so it is crucial to act promptly and thoroughly when repairing and treating the affected areas.

Use termite insecticides

Insecticides are a popular method for getting rid of termites. The soil around your house can be treated with termite insecticides such as imidacloprid or fipronil. Wood can also be treated directly if termites are inside.

Termidor

Termidor is available as a liquid concentrate and a foam. It contains fipronil, a slow-acting poison that allows termites to disperse it throughout their colony, killing all the termites in the nest. You can choose from Termidor HE, Termidor Foam, Termidor SC, Termidor HP, and Termidor HP II.

Taurus

Taurus insecticide is available in two types: Taurus SC liquid and Taurus Trio G granules. They contain fipronil and work as a termiticide and an overall insecticide for ants and other pests. The liquid form is ideal for treating wood and other infested areas, while the granular version is perfect for lawns and can help stop subterranean termites before they locate your home.

Navigator SC

Navigator SC is a powerful termiticide with fipronil as the active ingredient. It is designed for professional use and can be applied before or after construction to target subterranean termites and other invasive pests such as ants, spiders, and roaches.

When using insecticides, it is important to take safety precautions, especially in homes with children and pets. Always follow the instructions on the product label, and if you have any concerns, consult a pest control professional or your state pesticide regulatory agency.

Frequently asked questions