So we took the question to the experts who manufacture cedar chests, and here is what they had to say: It's OK to put photos in the chest as long as they are stored in an archival box with acid-free paper. Don't let the photos touch the wood itself, as it's acidic and could ruin the photos.
Cedar chests typically dry out the items that are stored within them, which is fine if it's clothing or paper. But you don't want a leather bag to dry out or it could become brittle and crack. Because of the potential for damage, it's best not to keep leather bags—or shoes or belts—in a cedar chest.
Thanks to cedar wood's amazing water resistance properties you don't need to fear mold growing inside of your chest. Decay resistant – Your cedar chest will not rot away with age.
With cedar's natural ability to keep bugs at bay, it's safe to store heirloom items inside a cedar chest like handmade quilts, blankets, clothing and keepsakes you've inherited. It's important to note that bed bugs won't eat or damage wood, they cannot chew wood or fabric.
While these are all nice, cedar chests should be avoided when housing your artifacts; historic textiles; wedding dresses, christening dresses, or uniforms, or any other family heirloom. As wood ages, it gives off an acid, which in the museum world is called 'off-gassing,' that reacts poorly with other objects.
So we took the question to the experts who manufacture cedar chests, and here is what they had to say: It's OK to put photos in the chest as long as they are stored in an archival box with acid-free paper. Don't let the photos touch the wood itself, as it's acidic and could ruin the photos.
Wet a lint-free cloth with vinegar and wipe down the interior of the chest. After it is wiped down, let it air dry before closing the lid.
Pest deterrent: Cedar is a natural non-toxic deterrent against moths and other pests, owing to the oil infused in its wood. This oil is naturally insect-repelling.
# 7. Picture frames. Bed bugs will sneak into the joints, cracks, and crevices along picture frames hanging on the wall to avoid detection. They are very skittish and will tuck away at the first sign of an intruder.
Cedarwood is a natural insect repellent that is effective against bed bugs and other pests. Its strong scent is thought to interfere with the pheromones that bed bugs use to communicate with each other and locate their hosts, making it harder for them to find their next meal.
Cedar chests have been cherished heirlooms for generations, and their timeless appeal continues to captivate homeowners today. These beautifully crafted wooden chests offer both aesthetic beauty and practicality.
One of the best ways to protect your home's cedar exterior from future damage is to clean it with vinegar regularly. By cleaning your home's exterior with vinegar, you can keep it free of any dirt, dust, and grime that could encourage mold.
Cedar chests are great for storing clothing, blankets, and delicate fabrics. Because the oil in cedar wood is an all-natural insect repellent that keeps moths and other pests at bay, you can store these items without worrying that they'll get damaged.
Although cedar lasts a long time under ideal conditions and treatment, it tends to degrade more quickly when it's used for ground-level decks, and if it's shaded, it will slowly dry out.
Sand the Interior
Sanding the interior of your cedar chest will also potentially remove any remaining stains. Plus, it also refreshes the cedar smell.
Hot humid areas, especially, create a lot of moisture, and the clothes in your closet have a nasty tendency to absorb it all. As you know, moisture equals increased mold and mildew, which can be catastrophic for your wardrobe and closet. Cedar comes and saves the day by getting rid of all and then some.
No. Bedbugs do not typically hide on your body and prefer to stay on places like mattresses and clothing.
Thunder bugs, thunder files, storm flies, thrips, Latin name: Thysanoptera – call them what you will – we all know how annoying they can be during the spring and summer, particularly in rural areas and at some stage a large number are likely to find their way under the glass of your favourite framed picture.
Like bed bugs, most insects like spiders, chiggers, and mites are active at night, so these creatures could be causing the problem. Meanwhile, here are other critters that may cause itchy bites on your skin: Mosquito bites usually appear as reddish, swollen welts scattered around your body.
The evidence is clear: Cedar does repel bugs, mosquitoes and spiders alike. But beyond its repelling properties, cedar stands as a testament to nature's brilliance. It reminds us that for many modern problems, age-old, natural solutions still hold immense value.
Property owners love how cedar chips can repel a variety of insects including cloth-eating moths, carpet beetles, cockroaches, and certain types of ants.
Keeping Spiders Out Of Your House FAQ:
To deter spiders, try peppermint oil, keep your space clean and clutter-free, seal cracks and gaps, and use cedarwood. Encouraging natural predators like ladybugs and birds can also help control spider populations.
So we took the question to the experts who manufacture cedar chests, and here is what they had to say: It's OK to put photos in the chest as long as they are stored in an archival box with acid-free paper. Don't let the photos touch the wood itself, as it's acidic and could ruin the photos.
Step 1: Wash surface
The first step is simple—wash the outside of the chest. To do this, mix up some standard Murphy's Oil Soap, apply it to the chest surface, and wipe down. The goal here is to remove any dirt and reveal any scratches in the original finish.
An old cedar chest's worth is based on its age, condition or rarity -- starting at $99 and as high as $700 or more. If the hardware is original then it is worth more and can fetch about $200 to $400.