Generally speaking, high-quality solid wood furniture undergoes pest‑control treatment during the manufacturing process. Techniques such as high‑temperature and high‑pressure joining further help to effectively eliminate pests. ; At the same time, the wood will also be soaked in insecticidal medicinal herbs. ; Cover the wood with plaster or fire-retardant coating. When crafting furniture, it is also treated with a frost‑removal process and then painted. This effectively kills insect eggs hidden within the wood’s pores, ensuring the longevity of solid‑wood furniture.
Early insect‑proofing treatments ensure that the wood itself will not harbor pests once it is crafted into furniture, while proper post‑purchase maintenance is key to preventing infestations. Often, wood‑based furniture becomes infested not because of the wood itself, but due to inadequate care during use; for instance, surface damage can create entry points for insects. Additionally, in older homes or in damp environments where mosquitoes and other pests are abundant, insect eggs can easily take hold and compromise the furniture.
In everyday life, it’s still important to master a few simple maintenance tips to ensure your furniture lasts longer.
1. Avoid placing furniture in damp, dark, and insect-prone corners. Woodworm infestations typically occur only when wood is exposed to moisture, and since wood readily absorbs humidity, it can create an ideal environment for insect eggs to hatch. Regular ventilation is therefore essential.
2. Reduce the damage indoor humidity can cause to furniture. When humidity is high, close doors and windows to limit ventilation, or purchase desiccants and insect repellents at the supermarket and place them in wooden furniture and other areas of your home that are prone to moisture.
3. The cloth used to wipe furniture should be clean, soft, and not overly wet; after wiping, no water droplets or marks should remain on the surface, as these can accelerate moisture absorption and insect damage. Additionally, avoid impacts and scratches on the furniture’s surface, since the finish acts as a protective layer that effectively prevents the wood from absorbing moisture and helps keep it dry.
For readers whose homes have furniture infested with pests, you can place the furniture in direct sunlight to dry, then apply an insecticide. For larger pieces, wipe them repeatedly with a disinfectant, let them dry thoroughly, ensure they are well-ventilated and completely dry, and then spray with insecticide. To maximize the effectiveness of the insecticide, it’s best to keep treated furniture in a sealed space, allowing the product to penetrate deeply and minimizing evaporation. You can also place camphor balls inside solid‑wood cabinets to help repel insects. Additionally, consumers are advised not to opt for the cheapest solid‑wood furniture; instead, choose products from reputable brands whenever possible.