At first glance, these specks might not seem alarming. You might assume they’re crumbs, spilled seasoning, or even dust. But when they keep reappearing in the same spot — especially in dry areas far from food sources — it’s time to investigate further.
Chances are, you're seeing termite droppings , also called frass .
Unlike subterranean termites, which live underground and rarely surface, drywood termites live entirely inside the wood they consume — including walls, furniture, beams, and baseboards.
As they tunnel through wood, they create kick-out holes to expel waste. That waste — the tiny oval-shaped pellets you see — is frass , and its presence means one thing : you have active termites in your home.
How to Identify Termite Frass
Termite droppings (frass) have distinct characteristics that help distinguish them from other types of debris:
💡 Pro Tip: If you find what looks like a line or pile of tiny, uniform granules in a dry area — especially near wooden structures — it’s worth taking a closer look.
Why Termite Droppings Keep Reappearing
Termites don’t stop eating just because you cleaned once. As long as they have access to wood, they’ll continue to grow their colony — and that means more droppings every day .
Here’s why they keep coming back:
🧱 Hidden Infestations
Drywood termites can live undetected for years inside furniture, ceiling beams, or behind walls. Since they don’t need soil contact like subterranean termites, they’re harder to detect until damage becomes visible.
🕳️ Kick-Out Holes
Every few days, termites push frass out through small openings in the wood. These holes are so tiny you might never see them — but the droppings give away their location.
📅 Daily Waste Production
A mature termite colony can produce hundreds of droppings per day . So even if you clean thoroughly, the nest is still active — and producing more.
What Kind of Termites Are You Dealing With?
There are three main types of termites commonly found in U.S. homes:
If you’re finding white pellets , you’re most likely dealing with drywood termites — and that means action is needed before structural damage occurs.
What to Do If You Find Termite Droppings
Don’t panic — but do act quickly. Here’s what to do:
1. Inspect Nearby Wood
Look for signs of damage: hollow spots, blistered paint, or soft surfaces. Tap the wood — if it sounds hollow, you may have a nest.
2. Collect a Sample
Place some of the pellets in a sealed bag or container. A pest control expert will want to confirm it’s termite frass.
3. Call a Professional Exterminator
DIY methods won’t eliminate a full-blown termite infestation. Contact a licensed pest control company for inspection and treatment options.
4. Consider Fumigation or Localized Treatments
Depending on the severity, treatments may include:
- Whole-house fumigation (for severe infestations)
- Heat treatments
- Spot treatments using foams or injections
Preventing Future Infestations
Once the problem is resolved, take steps to prevent future issues:
✅ Remove untreated firewood from your home
✅ Seal cracks and gaps in wood trim and baseboards
✅ Avoid storing cardboard boxes directly on wooden floors
✅ Schedule regular pest inspections, especially for older homes
✅ Use termite-resistant materials when renovating
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I ignore termite droppings if there’s no visible damage?
A: No. Termites can cause serious structural damage over time. Early detection saves money and headaches.
Q: Are termite droppings dangerous to humans or pets?
A: Not directly — they’re not toxic or harmful to breathe — but they’re a sign of a potentially costly infestation.
Q: Can I use DIY termite killers instead of hiring a pro?
A: For localized issues, spot treatments may help — but for full nests, professional intervention is strongly recommended.
Q: Will cleaning up the frass kill the termites?
A: No. It removes evidence, but the colony remains intact.
Q: How much does termite treatment cost?
A: Costs vary widely — from $500–$1,500 for localized treatments to several thousand for full fumigation.
Final Thoughts
Those mysterious white pellets you keep finding aren’t just random debris — they could be a sign of drywood termites feasting on your home . Ignoring them might seem easy, but the longer you wait, the worse the damage can become.
The good news? With early detection and proper treatment, you can protect your home and preserve its charm — without breaking the bank.
So next time you notice strange white specks on your counter or floor, don’t just clean them up. Investigate. Act. And protect your space before the problem grows.
