Best Cedar For Closets

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Post on Feb 15, 2025

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Best Cedar for Closets: A Guide to Choosing the Right Wood for Your Needs

Are you looking to keep moths and other pests away from your precious clothes while adding a lovely aroma to your closet? Then using cedar is a time-honored and effective solution. But with so many types of cedar available, choosing the best cedar for closets can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the options and select the perfect cedar for your needs, covering everything from species to sourcing and maintenance.

Understanding the Types of Cedar

Not all cedars are created equal when it comes to repelling insects and providing that distinctive aroma. The most common types used for closet protection are:

1. Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana):

• Pros: Widely available, relatively affordable, strong insect-repelling properties due to its high thujone content, and boasts a classic cedar scent. This is often considered the best cedar for closets by many.
• Cons: Can be prone to cracking or warping if not properly dried and treated. The scent fades over time, requiring occasional replacement or reapplication of cedar oil.

2. Aromatic Cedar (Juniperus scopulorum):

• Pros: Strong and durable, pleasant aroma, and excellent insect-repelling capabilities, making it a great contender for the title of best cedar for closets. Often preferred for its longer-lasting scent compared to Eastern Red Cedar.
• Cons: Can be more expensive than Eastern Red Cedar.

3. Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata):

• Pros: Known for its durability and rot resistance, making it a long-lasting choice. Beautiful grain pattern. Often used for chests, and other storage solutions.
• Cons: Less potent insect-repelling properties compared to Juniperus species. Its aroma is milder and less prominent. Not the ideal choice if pest-repelling is your primary concern.

Choosing the Right Cedar Product for Your Closet

Once you've selected your cedar type, consider these product options:

• Cedar Blocks: These are a cost-effective and readily available option. Place them strategically throughout your closet.
• Cedar Chips: These offer a more natural and aesthetically pleasing look, filling spaces between clothes more effectively.
• Cedar Balls: These are a charming and aesthetically pleasing option, perfect for drawers or hanging in sachets.
• Cedar Closet Liners: These provide full coverage, offering optimal protection and a consistent aroma.
• Cedar chests: These offer a stylish and practical storage solution with built-in pest protection.

Remember to consider the size of your closet when choosing the quantity of cedar products. More cedar means a stronger scent and better pest protection.

Maintaining Your Cedar Closet

To maximize the effectiveness and longevity of your cedar closet, follow these tips:

• Proper Drying: Ensure your cedar products are properly dried before use to prevent warping and cracking.
• Regular Cleaning: Dust your cedar products occasionally to prevent the accumulation of dust and debris.
• Reapplication of Oil: The scent of cedar fades over time. Reapplying cedar oil periodically can help maintain its effectiveness and pleasant aroma. You can find pure cedar oil at most home improvement stores.
• Replacement: Eventually, cedar products will need replacing. Consider this a part of maintaining a pest-free closet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Is cedar safe for clothes? Yes, cedar is generally considered safe for clothing. However, it's always a good idea to test a small, inconspicuous area of fabric before using cedar products extensively.
• How often should I replace my cedar products? This depends on the type of cedar and the level of exposure to moisture and sunlight. Typically, replacement every 2-3 years is recommended.
• Can I use cedar oil directly on my clothes? It's generally not recommended to apply cedar oil directly to clothing, as it may stain or damage certain fabrics.

By following this guide, you can confidently choose the best cedar for closets that meets your specific needs and preferences, ensuring your clothes remain fresh, fragrant, and pest-free for years to come. Remember to consider factors like budget, desired scent intensity, and the size of your closet when making your decision. Happy organizing!