Cedar planks used in closets will last for a long time, depending on how often the space is used, the ventilation, and the level of humidity. Generally, untreated cedar planks will last between 5-20 years.
To increase the lifespan of cedar planks in a closet, avoid condensation and moisture buildup by keeping the closet well-ventilated, and wipe the planks down occasionally with a dry cloth to keep away dust.
Additionally, if desired, many people choose to seal their cedar planks in order to make them last longer and protect them from wear and tear.
Is cedar in closet worth it?
Whether cedar in a closet is worth it depends on personal preference and the type of cedar you are using. First, cedar contains natural oils that act as a natural insect repellent and can deter moths, silverfish, and other pests.
Cedar also has a pleasant aroma and can help freshen up musty spaces. Its pleasant smell can help combat odors from clothing and musty air.
However, there are some downsides to using cedar as well. It can be expensive, and it isn’t a preventative to mold. Cedar can also warp and crack if exposed to too much moisture. Another downside is that it’s not widely available and may need to be purchased online or from specialty stores.
Overall, if you’re okay with spending some money and don’t mind the odor, cedar in a closet can be a great way to naturally repel pests and keep musty odors at bay.
What should you not put in a cedar closet?
It is generally not recommended to put certain items in a cedar closet such as fabrics, paper, and items that might be negatively impacted by the natural oils in the cedar. The oil in the cedar will eventually cause staining and discoloration to certain fabrics, so it is important not to store garments such as suits, dresses, or sweaters in the cedar closet.
Additionally, the oils in the cedar closet can cause paper products to yellow or fade over time. Photographs, books, and delicate paper products like fine stationery should not be stored in a cedar closet.
Furthermore, it is best to avoid storing leather items in a cedar closet since the oils in the cedar could darken and discolor the material. Finally, items with a rubbery smell should be kept out of a cedar closet due to the strong odor it can leave.
Items such as flip flops, shower clogs, and rubber gloves should not be stored in a cedar closet.
What’s the point of cedar closet?
The purpose of using cedar in a closet is twofold. First, cedar is naturally insect-repellent, which helps keep clothing, shoes, and other items stored in the closet safe from pests like moths and silverfish.
This helps protect items against damage. Second, cedar contains natural aromatic oils that help to repel odors, preventing unwanted odor-causing bacteria from entering and settling into fabrics over time.
The pleasant aroma of cedar is often used to help make closets smell fresher and more inviting.
Does cedar repel bugs in closet?
Yes, cedar does repel bugs in closets. The cedar oil found in cedar wood naturally repels moths, fleas, roaches, and silverfish. Its distinct smell also drives away other insects, making it a popular choice for protecting clothes and linens.
Cedar is also often used to line closets and drawers, as the aroma of its oils can permeate fabric and clothing, protecting them from infestations. Cedar has also been used for centuries to make chests, boxes, and liners as it helps to extend the life span of the fabrics stored inside.
It is also a cost-effective way to keep bugs away from your closets. Cedar should be properly sealed to maintain its pests-repelling capability, which you can do by applying a coat of lacquer or varnish.
For the best results, it is recommended to replace or sand down the wood every couple of years.
Are cedar closets expensive?
Cedar closets can vary in price depending on the size, type, and whether they come pre-built or will require construction. Generally speaking, cedar closets cost more than the regular type of closet due to their durable, long-lasting nature and the fact that they are pest-resistant.
For instance, a pre-built, freestanding cedar closet with adjustable shelving and hanging rods can range anywhere from $300 – $500. For custom cedar closets, however, the price can climb significantly depending on the size and design – with the cost of materials and labor combined, it could easily cost upwards of $2,500.
All in all, cedar closets are certainly more expensive than regular closets, but that additional cost is often more than worth it with the long-term benefits of a more durable, pest-resistant closet.
Does cedar really keep moths away?
Yes, cedar does naturally repel moths away. More specifically, cedar wood, cedar oil, and cedar chips, all emit fragrant odor molecules called terpenes, which moths, as well as some other insects, actively avoid.
This is why cedar chests, closets, and chests of drawers were very common in the past, as it was the best way to protect and preserve clothes and fabrics from damage.
Cedar oil is even commercially available these days, and is a natural and effective moth repellent. It is typically composed of Altriplene, Juniperene, Caryophyllene, Pinene, and other naturally-occurring compounds found in cedar.
These compounds help keep moths away and also help to prevent damage caused by them.
In addition to preserving clothes, cedar also has some other benefits, such as making a room that smells wonderful and helping to repel some other insects, such as fleas, ticks, and spiders.
In summary, cedar is an effective and natural way to keep moths away and protect belongings often susceptible to their damage.
Should you put cedar in your closet?
Adding cedar to your closet can be a great way to enhance your wardrobe and make it smell pleasant. Cedar naturally has antimicrobial, deodorizing, and repelling properties that are ideal for keeping moths, mold, and other pests away from your clothing.
Even if pests are not an issue in your closet, cedar can provide a sense of freshness in the air by neutralizing bad odors.
In addition to its benefits for keeping your clothes fresh and pest-free, cedar also adds a stylish touch to any closet. Cedar hangers, shelves, and walls look elegant and classic while they protect your garments.
However, if cedar is not already present in your closet, it is important to be careful with how you add cedar to the space. The oil from the wood can stain and damage clothing and furniture, so it is important to use caution when adding cedar items or oils.
It is also important to make sure that the item you choose is from a reputable source.
In conclusion, adding cedar to your closet can be a great way to protect your garments, add elegance, and make the air smell pleasant. However, it is important to take proper precautions when adding cedar items to your closet to ensure that your clothes remain in good condition.
What kind of cedar do you use for closets?
At most lumber yards and home improvement stores, you will find western red cedar for use in closets and other areas in the home. Western Red Cedar is a beautiful, soft aromatic wood with a red or pink hue.
It is a popular choice for closets and other areas due to its natural resistance to decay, insect infestation and decay-causing fungi. Additionally, the wood is lightweight and has a pleasant aroma. Western red cedar is durable and long lasting, making it an ideal choice for closets and other areas in the home.
It is also easy to maintain, requiring only minimal upkeep such as a light sanding and staining, to keep it in great condition for years to come.
Should cedar wood be sealed?
Yes, cedar wood should be sealed for maximum protection. Cedar is durable and naturally resistant to rot, decay, and insects, but over the years, the weather and other environmental factors can damage the wood.
Sealing cedar wood creates a protective layer over the wood and keeps out water, dirt and pests while helping to maintain the wood’s natural beauty. Applying a sealant will also allow you to maintain the wood better.
Sealing cedar wood can help prolong its life and prevent it from developing cracks, splintering, or warping. It is best to use a waterproof sealant that is designed for cedar wood, such as a polyurethane or polyacrylic, as these sealants work best for outdoor and high-humidity areas.
Each sealant will have different instructions for application, so be sure to read the product manual before applying.
When should you seal cedar?
Cedar should be sealed immediately after it has been installed. Even though cedar is naturally resistant to decay, it is still exposed to moisture, sun, and insects which can cause deterioration. Sealing cedar will help to protect it from any potential damage and also slow the natural aging process.
When done correctly, sealing cedar can help enhance the natural beauty and preserve its lifespan. When applying sealant, you should use a high-quality penetrative sealer. This type of sealer will help preserve the grains and natural beauty of the wood over time.
For the best protection, you should reapply sealant every 1-2 years.
How do you keep cedar from turning GREY?
Cedar will naturally turn grey over time as a result of sun and weather exposure. To keep cedar from turning grey, it is important to protect it from harmful UV rays, rain and wind. This can be done through a few simple steps.
For outdoor cedar, it is important to regularly clean the wood to prevent dirt and mildew buildup. Once a year, use a mild soap and water solution to scrub away any dirt and grime. Leave it to dry and then apply a clear sealer, like lacquer or a polyurethane sealant, which you can find at a local home improvement store.
Additionally, to keep the wood from fading, apply a coat of stain or wood preservative as often as once a year.
For indoor cedar, protect it from UV rays with curtains or blinds and keep humidity levels regulated. Wipe away dust and dirt with a soft, damp cloth and then apply a protective wax or finish. Avoid using acidic cleaning agents which can damage the wood finish.
Avoid placing cedar in direct sunlight – if possible, keep the wood in shaded or indirect light.
By taking these proactive steps, you can help to keep your cedar from turning grey.
Where should cedar blocks be placed in a closet?
Cedar blocks should be placed in the corners and near the center of the closet, leaving a few inches between them to ensure adequate air circulation. Cedar blocks should be placed higher up in the closet, away from clothing which may hang or rest on the lower shelves.
Cedar blocks should not be placed on the floor or on low shelves, as their fragrance can be too overpowering when placed too close to your clothing. Hang the cedar blocks or place them on shelves that are higher up in the closet.
If possible, try to lay them on the floor of the closet, away from any clothes or shoes that may brush against them. If a cedar block slips, have it placed in a sealed container away from any clothing.
Additionally, make sure that cedar blocks are away from any kind of direct sunlight, as this can cause the cedar’s oils to evaporate quickly.
Why do old houses have cedar in closets?
Traditionally, old houses tend to have cedar in their closets as cedar has many beneficial properties that make it a great choice for closets. Cedar is naturally a non-toxic insect repellent, making it a great way to keep moths and other insects from damaging clothing and linens stored in closets.
Cedar also has natural antimicrobial properties, which help to prevent the growth of mold and mildew and keep closets smelling fresher for longer. Additionally, the wood is quite dense, meaning it does a great job of insulating, creating a warmer and more comfortable space for clothes during the colder months.
Finally, its beautiful aroma serves as a natural scent that helps to keep closets smelling fresh even after a long period of time.
How long is cedar effective against moths?
Cedar is an effective natural option for deterring moths, as it’s scent repels them. In general, the effectiveness of cedar against moths can be long-lasting, although there are several factors that can affect this.
The quality of the wood, for example, can play a role in how long it is effective for. Good quality cedar, such as Eastern Aromatic Cedar, can remain effective for several years and help to prevent moths from entering your home or storage.
Additionally, cedar oil or cedar shavings can also be used to help repel moths and can be rebuilt or replaced fairly inexpensively to extend effectiveness. Finally, the area or environment where cedar is used can also affect its effectiveness.
Cedar is most effective when it is used in enclosed areas or in areas with limited ventilation, as it can help to keep the scent, and therefore the repelling ability, in the area. All in all, the effectiveness of cedar against moths can be quite long-lasting if the factors mentioned are taken into consideration.
Does cedar absorb odors?
Yes, cedar has long been recognized as an effective natural odor absorber due to its natural oils. The durable and attractive wood has a unique aroma that can help mask unwanted odors, as well as absorbing them.
Cedar also has a natural ability to repel pests, making it an ideal choice for wardrobes, closets, and drawers where clothes, linens, and other scented items are stored. This can help to keep your favorite garments smelling fresh and free of musty odors.
Cedar also has mild antiseptic qualities, further protecting your items from bacteria, mold, and unwanted odors.
How can I make my closet smell like cedar?
You can make your closet smell like cedar by hanging cedar blocks or chips in your closet. Cedar wood naturally has a pleasant smell, so cedar blocks and chips will help to keep your closet smelling fresh.
Cedar is also believed to have anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, making cedar blocks or chips a great natural way to keep your closet smelling great and free of mildew and mold. You can purchase small cedar blocks or chips at your local home improvement store, or you can make your own at home.
Simply take some thin slices of cedar wood and place them throughout your closet. You can even add a few drops of essential oil to the cedar slices or chips to make your closet smell particularly pleasant!.
