I've got some pallets sitting around outside, and I'm thinking of cutting a couple of them in half to create a simple indoor plant stand. However, I'm really worried about bringing any bugs or pests into my home. I don't have the tools to disassemble the pallets properly, and I'm not very handy, so my plan is to just saw them in half. Any tips on how I can make sure they won't bring any unwanted critters indoors? I eventually decided against bringing them in and will keep them outside instead.
3 Answers
If you're set on using pallets, make sure to check if they have a stamp indicating they have been heat-treated. These are generally safer, especially if you're in North America. Just remember, even with the right pallets, it's tough to inspect for hidden eggs or larvae. Some people suggest giving the pallets a good clean or sticking them in a hot oven for a bit to kill any pests before using them. Just make sure you do it safely!
Honestly, I've made a small table using a pallet after sanding and treating it, and I felt fine bringing it indoors. If you’re worried about pests, you can use insecticide sprays specifically designed for wood. It’s just wood after all—who knows what even new wood from the store goes through! But if you're not comfortable with that, keeping the pallets outside is probably the best idea.
It's great that you're being cautious about pests! Honestly, I’d advise against using those pallets inside. You never really know where they've been or what they might contain. Think about all the stuff those pallets could soak up outside—who knows what kinds of chemicals or bugs could be hiding in there! You might want to consider looking for alternative options for your plant stand if you're really concerned about bugs.