The simplest way is to look for any markings or labels that may be on the chest. Some cedar chests can have date stamps or stamps of the manufacturer, which can tell you the approximate age. Alternatively, if you know the manufacturer or designer, you can look up their catalogs to help date the chest.
You can also look at the chest itself and its construction style. Cedar chests generally come in either the traditional or modern styles. Traditional chests usually have lid supports, round corners, and possibly a set of drawers inside.
Modern chests generally have flat corners, no lid supports, and are made with more intricate designs. The style of chest you have and the materials used can give clues to the approximate age.
Finally, it may be helpful to consult an expert. Antique dealers and appraisers may be able to give you a more precise estimate of your cedar chest’s age based on their knowledge and experience. They may be able to look at the chest and give you an approximate time frame of when it was made.
What can I do with a cedar chest?
A cedar chest is a great piece of furniture that can be used in many ways. Most notably, it is often used as a storage unit to keep items such as blankets, linens, or seasonal clothing. It’s also great for keeping keepsakes, memorabilia, and other precious items safely stored away from dust, insects, and other damage.
Cedar’s natural antifungal and antimicrobial properties are also a plus, making cedar chests great for storing things like fabric that can easily accumulate dust mites if not treated properly. Cedar is also a very attractive material, so a cedar chest can be used as a nice furniture piece too — perfect for storing books, displaying collectibles, or even showcasing photographs and art.
You can also use a cedar chest as a makeshift bench or seat, such as at the end of a bed or in an entryway.
Are cedar chests still popular?
Yes, cedar chests are still a popular choice for many people. They offer a timeless, classic look and can add an instant charm to any room. Cedar chests are also long lasting and durable and can easily be handed down through multiple generations.
Additionally, cedar wood has natural anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, making it a great choice for storing clothes, linens, quilts and other fabric items. Cedar chests also tend to be more affordable than many other types of furniture, making them a popular choice for people who want chic storage options without spending a fortune.
Where is the serial number on Lane cedar chest?
The serial number on a Lane cedar chest is typically located on the interior of the chest, near the bottom right corner. Some chests may also have a serial number tag located on the bottom exterior of the chest, near the front.
For classic Lane Hope chest models, the serial number can be found on the underside of the chest lid. If the serial number tag is not readable or is missing, you may be able to find the serial number on the underside of the keyhole escutcheon or the keyhole lock.
It is important to note that Lane cedar chests manufactured prior to 1950 do not have serial numbers.
Are old cedar chests worth money?
The answer to this question depends on the age and condition of a cedar chest. Generally, older cedar chests that are in good condition may have some monetary value, as they are often desired for their craftsmanship and quality materials.
Cedar chests made of solid cedar may also offer a higher resale value than those made of particle board or other cheaper materials. Many factors influence the price, such as condition, age, quality of construction, size and desirability.
It is also important to note that even in its original condition a cedar chest may not necessarily be valuable to a collector or antique dealer. In some cases, the cedar chest may only be worth its material value, and some experts recommend avoiding cedar chests with complicated inscriptions, plaques, or with painted designs or decoration.
In addition to researching your cedar chest online or at local antique stores, some may request a formal appraisal or consult an auction house for an accurate estimate.
How do you identify Lane furniture?
Identifying Lane furniture is a relatively straightforward process and involves taking a close look at certain key features. First, look for a Lane logo or label. Many pieces of Lane furniture have a logo or label featuring the word “Lane” and a serial number, although this does depend on the era and type of furniture.
Second, inspect the construction of the piece. Lane furniture is usually well-constructed, featuring dovetailed joints and smooth, even finishes. Additionally, check for any identifying marks or stamps on the underneath side of the furniture.
Lastly, take into account the type and style of the furniture. Lane furniture has been around since 1912 and manufactured many different styles of furniture. Researching the furniture style and period it was manufactured can help you gain a better understanding of the piece and help in identification.
When did Lane stop making cedar chests?
Lane furniture ceased production of cedar chests in 2001 after operating for over 100 years. Lane had been family-owned since 1912 and was acquired by Furniture Brands International in 1985. Lane’s cedar chests originally used the distinctive dovetail construction, but the method later changed to more economical butt-joint assembly.
Despite its long history and recognizable branding, Lane eventually discontinued their cedar chest line-up due to a decreasing demand for the product. Despite the fact that production stopped in 2001, Lane cedar chests remain a popular item on the second-hand market, with some pieces fetching a premium.
How do you store items in a cedar chest?
When storing items in a cedar chest, the key is to keep items clean and dust-free. Start by lining the inside of the chest with fabric or a thin plastic sheeting to keep fabrics or items in the chest looking new and make them easier to find.
Place items in the chest in a way that allows them to be easily seen and retrieved. If storing clothing, seasonally-appropriate items should be placed in the chest together. Separate the items you frequently use from those you do not.
Hang garments on storage hooks or hangers and stand them up if space allows. For smaller items, store them in labeled fabric or plastic storage bins or drawers. Place larger items like blankets or quilts flat, ensuring that creases and lumps are avoided.
Lastly, use cedar blocks or cedar strips to keep the chest smelling fresh and reducing the chance of harm from any possible insects.
Do cedar closets prevent mold?
Yes, cedar closets can help prevent the growth of mold. Mold tends to thrive in dark, damp environments, so cedar is a great choice for closet lining due to its natural ability to absorb moisture. The scent of cedar also acts as a natural deterrent to mold, as the wood’s aroma percolates through the closet and prevents mold spores from taking hold.
Additionally, cedar’s natural acidity serves to inhibit the development of mold, and its fragrant oils act as a natural repellent to mold and mildew. Finally, because cedar wood is naturally rot-resistant, it won’t become a breeding ground for mold spores like other materials may.
For all these reasons, cedar closets are an excellent choice for preventing the growth of mold.
Is cedar good for storing clothes?
Yes, cedar is an excellent material to use for storing clothes. This is because cedar has natural oils that repel moths and other insects, allowing clothes to stay fresher for a longer period of time.
Additionally, cedar also absorbs moisture, which is another factor that helps to keep your clothing in good condition. In fact, cedar is so effective at preserving clothing that it can even prevent clothes from becoming musty and rancid, due to the presence of mildew and mildew spores.
Cedar can also make clothes smell fresher, due to its pleasing, woodsy aroma. When used properly, cedar is an effective and natural way to keep clothes in top condition.
Why do old houses have cedar in closets?
Old houses often have cedar in closets because cedar has long been recognized for its insect repelling and aromatic qualities. The essential oils in cedar wood act as a natural insect repellant, discouraging ants, beetles, moths, and other unwanted pests from infesting clothing and linens.
On top of its bug-fighting capabilities, cedar also releases an intense aroma that not only smells pleasant but can also act as a mood booster and relaxation aid. People have been taking advantage of these natural properties of cedar for centuries, making it a popular material in closets throughout the ages.
Can mold grow in cedar closets?
Yes, mold can grow in cedar closets. Cedar closets are generally considered to be resistant to mold and mildew growth because of their natural properties including the presence of essential oils, but that does not mean that mold cannot grow in them.
Areas of high humidity and poorly ventilated closets can still be the sites for mold growth and must be prevented by proper maintenance. Cedar closets should be routinely inspected for mold and mildew growth and take proactive steps to prevent it, including regular cleaning and airing out the closet, keeping humidity levels low, and making sure that the closet is well ventilated.
If you notice signs of mold or mildew in your cedar closet, take steps to clean it up quickly using antimicrobial and/or antifungal cleaning solutions, following all safety protocols.
Should I line my closet with cedar?
Whether or not you should line your closet with cedar depends on your particular needs and preferences. Cedar is a popular choice for closets because it has natural insect repelling and deodorizing properties.
Its reddish-brown hue adds a nice scent and visual appeal. Cedar is also a very durable material, and its natural properties are perfect for absorbing excess moisture, which is ideal for an enclosed space like a closet.
On the other hand, cedar is an expensive material to work with, so you may want to consider other options like cedar-laminate veneer, a painted finish, or treated hardwood. Additionally, cedar tends to make a closet more difficult to clean due to its porous nature.
If you do ultimately decide to line your closet with cedar, make sure to keep it properly maintained with regular cleaning and oiling. Doing so will help ensure that your cedar closet lasts longer and remains attractive.
How do I keep mold from growing in my closet?
The key to preventing mold growth in your closet is creating an environment that deters mold spores from living and spreading. Here are a few tips to help keep mold away:
• Keep the closet dry by ensuring that any leaks are sealed and repaired. Use a dehumidifier or air conditioning to control moisture levels in the air if necessary.
• Ventilate your closet by opening the door and allowing air to circulate.
• Wash the interior walls and floor of your closet with an antifungal cleaner.
• Keep the closet free of clutter and stored items as much as possible, as these can be breeding grounds for mold.
• Vacuum the closet regularly to reduce the number of dust and spores in the air.
• Reduce humidity in the closet by using a fan or air conditioner to expel humidity.
• Empty and clean the closet regularly and be sure to dry out any wet or damp items before storing them.
• Clean or replace your air filters in order to improve air circulation.
• Use natural remedies such as tea tree oil, clove oil, or vinegar to kill mold spores.
• Place charcoal or open boxes of baking soda inside the closet to reduce moisture levels and absorb odors.
By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of mold growth in your closet and keep your belongings safe from mold damage.
What’s the difference between a hope chest and a cedar chest?
The primary difference between a hope chest and a cedar chest is the purpose for which each item is used. A hope chest, or dowry chest, is a chest given as a gift to a young woman as a symbol of hope for her future.
The chest is typically filled with items such as linens, clothing, silver and household goods which the bride will use when she is married, enters a household, or sets up her own home. A cedar chest, on the other hand, is a chest made from cedar wood, primarily for storage purposes.
A cedar chest can be given as a gift, however it would not have the same symbolic context as a hope chest. Cedar chests have been popular since the turn of the century due to their resistance to moths, insects, and their aromatic smell.
People often store items such as blankets and sweaters in them to preserve them.
Do people still give hope chests?
Yes, people still give hope chests, although they may not be as popular as they once were. For centuries, parents have given hope chests to their daughters as a symbol of love and as a reminder of their parents’ faith in them.
Commonly a high-quality wooden chest that is filled with clothing and other meaningful items, the items inside can easily represent the ample opportunities that life has to offer. By focusing on the special occasions in a young person’s life such as graduation and her wedding, a hope chest can serve as both a blessing of support and a way of preserving memories.
Hope chests are still seen today as a meaningful exchange between parents and daughters, and they can often become a family heirloom.
Why did they call it a hope chest?
The use of a hope chest has been around since the 1600s and the origin of the term is linked to the traditional practice of a young woman filling it with clothing, linens, and other items that showed readiness for marriage when she was of age.
Because these chests were filled with items that represented hope, support, and stability for an entering marriage, the name ‘hope chest’ was adopted. The hope chest was filled with items for the bride-to-be that were practical and sentimental.
Typical items would include more formal clothing and linens, such as handkerchiefs, aprons, cloaks, skirts, and sheets, while other items could be more sentimental, such as embroidered pillow cases and hand towels.
The idea is that when the time came, the bride-to-be would be able to use these items in her new home together with her husband.
