You can use a variety of products on the inside of a cedar chest in order to keep it in the best condition possible. Consider liners of fabric or even plastic, to help the original wood of the chest last longer and prevent the transfer of moisture.
Varnish, stain, polyurethane, and lacquer are all great finishes to prevent against bugs, rot, and mildew. You can also use cedar wood oil to condition and polish the wood, giving it an extra shine and making it look like it just came off the showroom floor.
If you’re looking for something even extra special, you can also use fragrant cedar balls to give the interior a pleasant smell.
How do you protect a cedar chest?
A cedar chest can provide a safe place to store items and can also last for decades. To protect your cedar chest and keep it looking its best, start by cleaning it right away. Use a soft brush to brush away any dirt, dust or cobwebs, and then use a mild soap and warm water to wipe the entire chest.
Once it has dried completely, sand it lightly with a fine grit sandpaper.
Next it’s time to protect your cedar chest from the elements. Start by applying a coat of clear sealer designed for outdoor wood furniture. Once that dries, give it a few extra protective coats of polyurethane wood sealer, paying special attention to the edges and corners.
This sealer coats the wood and helps protect it from pests, rot and mildew.
Finally, keep your cedar chest in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Extreme temperatures can cause warping and shrinking over time and the sunlight can cause fading and discoloration. Additionally, make sure to check for signs of rot and mildew, and if you see any, use a brush or sponge to clean it away.
What is a good finish to put on cedar?
A good finish to put on cedar is a combination of stain and varnish. This will help protect the wood from the elements, add color, and enhance the natural beauty of the wood. After cleaning and sanding the wood, use a quality pre-stain wood conditioner before applying a quality wood stain.
Finally, finish it off with a coat of varnish. Doing so will keep your cedar looking beautiful for many years to come.
Will bed bugs get in cedar chest?
It is possible that bed bugs can enter cedar chests, especially if the chest is old and has cracks or crevices in it. Additionally, if the cedar chest is moved from an infested area, there is a risk of transferring the bugs to the chest.
Finally, if bed bugs have already spread throughout the home, they have the potential to move into any nook or cranny, including a cedar chest.
However, there is some evidence that cedar can have insect-repelling properties due to its aroma and oils. As a result, it is worth considering getting a new cedar chest, as it may provide a small level of protection from bed bugs.
For additional protection from bed bugs, do not leave any items storing off the floor and take care not to move the chest unless absolutely necessary. Additionally, ensure that any cracks or crevices are sealed correctly to ensure the bugs are not able to get in.
How do you condition cedar wood?
Conditioning cedar wood is an important step in ensuring the wood retains its natural beauty over time. The process typically involves three steps: cleaning, brushing/sanding, and applying a finish.
1. Cleaning – Before conditioning cedar wood, it is important to clean it first and remove any dirt, dust, and debris. This can be done with a damp cloth or a vacuum.
2. Brushing/Sanding – After cleaning, the wood should be lightly brushed with a soft bristle brush or sanded with a fine-grit sandpaper to remove any remaining dirt and debris, as well as any unevenness in the surface of the wood.
3. Applying Finish – The final step in conditioning cedar wood is to apply a finish. This can be done using an oil-based finish, such as tung oil, or a water-based finish, such as polyurethane. When applying the finish, make sure to spread it evenly across the surface of the wood with a brush or cloth.
Allow the finish to dry completely before using the cedar wood.
How can I tell how old my cedar chest is?
To determine the age of your cedar chest, you may need to examine the origins of the chest. You will want to look for information about the maker, such as the name of the company and where it was manufactured.
This can indicate the general era in which the chest was created. Also, look on the bottom or back of the chest to see if it is stamped with a manufacturer’s logo, a serial number, or a date. If there is only a logo, it can indicate the manufacturer but not the exact age.
You can also investigate the original purpose or type of construction of the piece. For example, if it is an American 19th century Navy chest, it is a definite indication of its origin and likely age.
If you are unable to determine the age of your cedar chest, you may want to consult a professional appraiser or antique specialist. These professionals have experience and knowledge of different construction styles and can provide an accurate assessment of the age of your cedar chest and its value.
Are cedar chests still popular?
Yes, cedar chests are still popular today, especially among those who enjoy quality furniture with attractive craftsmanship. Cedar’s attractive aroma and natural pest-repellent qualities make it a wise choice for storing clothing, linens, and special keepsakes.
Cedar chests offer an attractive and stylish storage piece that combines both form and function. Additionally, cedar chests can provide extra seating for visitors or for use in a bedroom. Including traditional and modern styles that can coordinate with any decor.
Educated consumers recognize the value of cedar chests and they are becoming increasingly popular, especially when they are passed through generations.
Where is the serial number on Lane cedar chest?
The serial number for a Lane cedar chest can generally be found on the underside of the chest lid. The chest must be opened to locate the serial number, which can be printed onto a paper label or stamped directly into the wood.
The Lane company used unique 5-digit serial numbers to identify each of their cedar chests from 1912 until 1973, when they began using 6-digit numbers. If the serial number doesn’t include any preceding letters, the first two digits indicate the year during which the chest was manufactured or shipped.
From 1930 onward, the last two digits refer to the production sequence number of the cedar chest. A chest with a style label only will not have a serial number. Since serial numbers are the only reliable way to determine the age of the chest, it’s important to understand this information when attempting to date the piece.
Are old cedar chests worth anything?
Yes, old cedar chests can be worth quite a bit, depending on their age and condition. Cedar chests can be true antiques, from the 1920s or earlier. These can command high prices from collectors and antiques dealers because of their beauty, sturdiness and rarity.
A piece from the 1930s through the 1950s is more likely to sell for between $50 and $300. However, due to their age, cedar chests of this time period may have some wear or damage, which can detract significantly from their value.
Cedar chests manufactured in the 1960s and 1970s are rarely worth more than $100, and are probably only worth the cost of the materials. To get an accurate estimate of value, it’s best to take the piece to a professional antiques appraiser or research the piece online.
Do cedar chests keep moths away?
Yes, cedar chests can be effectively used to help keep moths away. The aromatic oils in cedar wood act as a powerful pest deterrent, which makes it an effective moth repellent. The strong scent of cedar wood helps to mask the scent of other materials, such as clothing, that may be stored in the chest.
The oils in cedar also have insect-repelling properties, making it an effective tool to fight against moths and other insects. Placing cedar blocks or chips within the chest will release a long-lasting scent that helps repel moths in the area.
Storing clothing and other items within the chest can also help to keep moths away as the scent of the cedar may prevent them from coming near the items. Additionally, the chest itself acts as a barrier from preventing moths from getting in or out, which further helps to keep your items safe from them.
What is a cedar closet good for?
A cedar closet is ideal for storing seasonal clothes, shoes, and accessories, as well as items that need to remain in a cool and humid environment. Cedar wood has many natural benefits that make cedar closets particularly ideal for this purpose.
The natural aromatic oils in the wood act as a natural insect repellent, making it difficult for moths and other pests to infest and damage clothing and fabrics. Additionally, cedar wood has a refreshing scent that is said to repel moths and act as an air freshener, while the closet’s enclosed space helps to retain the refreshing aroma.
Cedar wood is also renowned for its excellent insulation capabilities, making cedar closets ideal for storing items that are sensitive to extreme temperature and moisture changes. Finally, cedar closets are also ideal for preserving items like fur, wool and cashmere as the natural oils in the wood act to protect the fibers, thus preventing moths and other pests from damaging the items.
Is cedar wood harmful to humans?
No, cedar wood is not harmful to humans. In fact, it is a very popular choice of wood due to its natural properties that make it durable and aesthetically pleasing. Cedar wood has a pleasant aroma, natural oils and resists insect damage, making it an ideal wood for a variety of projects.
Cedar wood is non-toxic, which means that it does not pose any health risks to humans. Its strength and light weight make it suitable for cabinets, furniture, and wall paneling. Cedar wood is also widely used in shingles, siding, decks, and fences.
It is important to remember that undisturbed cedar wood is resistant to rot, decay, and mold, making it a very resilient wood. Additionally, cedar wood is often used in outdoor planters and gardens because it is naturally decay-resistant and its natural oils repel insects.
Although cedar wood is not harmful to humans, it is still important to practice safe woodworking protocols when using cedar products.
Is cedar furniture toxic?
No, cedar furniture is generally not considered toxic. Cedar has natural insect-resistant qualities, making it a popular choice for outdoor furniture. Cedar is also naturally rot-resistant, so it can stand up to the elements for a long time.
While cedar does not have inherently toxic qualities, some individuals may experience irritation from prolonged contact with the wood. Additionally, any finishes that are used on the furniture may contain toxic chemicals.
If the furniture is manufactured using modern techniques, the finish should meet industry standards and be safe for contact. If you are concerned about potential toxicity, it is best to contact the furniture manufacturer to inquire about their finish ingredients.
What do you store in cedar drawers?
Cedar drawers can be used to store a variety of items, including clothes, linens, blankets, towels, and even shoes. Cedar is an ideal material for drawers because of its natural properties which make it naturally resistant to insects, moths, and mildew.
This makes it ideal for storing items which may be susceptible to damage or decay, especially if stored in an otherwise humid environment. Many cedar drawers feature dividers and compartments, making it easy to store items in an organized way in order to maximize their use.
Additionally, cedar naturally emits a pleasant scent, making it a great choice for storing items such as sweaters and other clothing items.