What should you not put in a cedar closet?

Author: Hudson Klocko  |  Last update: Sunday, January 11, 2026

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.

What are the cons of cedar in a closet?

Downsides of Cedar for Closets
  • Allergy trigger. Cedar closets may cause an allergic reaction in some people. ...
  • Not for everyone. For some people, the smell of cedar is unbearable. ...
  • Scent fades. Cedar smells wonderful when it's new, but unfortunately it loses its scent over time. ...
  • Needs maintenance. ...
  • Cost prohibitive.

What should be stored in a cedar closet?

Cedar chests are excellent for storing seasonal clothing and linens. The natural scent of cedar wood deters moths and other insects, making it an ideal storage solution for delicate fabrics that might otherwise be at risk of damage.

Can mold grow in a cedar closet?

Cedar controls the growth of mold and mildew by keeping the closet at a low moisture level.

Does cedar repel bugs in the closet?

Turning to natural repellants is a safer way to keep bugs out of your closets. Cedar is an all-purpose repellant that works against multiple types of insects, especially moths & carpet beetles. You can use sachets of cedar shavings or cedar blocks.

Turn any Closet into a Cedar Closet - Do It Yourself

What bugs hate cedar?

Property owners love how cedar chips can repel a variety of insects including cloth-eating moths, carpet beetles, cockroaches, and certain types of ants.

Will mice chew through cedar?

Cedar is a great deterrent for rodents and bugs.

Why do I have white stuff on my clothes in my closet?

If you have noticed a musty smell on clothing, or spotted patches of white on dark clothes, it is possible that mildew has developed in your wardrobe. Mildew can damage the fabric of your clothes, causing unpleasant stains, and may also cause an allergic reaction on your skin if you wear affected items of clothing.

Why do people want cedar closets?

Cedar Closet Benefits – Durable, Beautiful, Low Maintenance, Affordable and Natural Pest Repellent. There are many cedar closet benefits, both in terms of aesthetics and practicality. There is a pleasant scent that emanates from cedar wood. The oils in the wood are also a natural insect repellent.

What kills mold on cedar wood?

For more in depth instructions on how to clean your wood siding, read our guide on How to Clean Cedar Siding in Just 4 Steps.
  • Clean your wood siding with water.
  • Apply Oxygen Bleach.
  • Apply Oxalic Acid.
  • Re-stain your wood siding.

What not to put in a cedar chest?

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.

How to freshen a cedar closet?

Lightly sanding the wood with fine-grit sandpaper ought to renew the scent. Just be aware that some people are bothered by cedar dust, which can cause temporary dermatitis or respiratory problems.

Do cedar closets add value?

Most experts agree that adding a cedar closet adds value to any home. They are a throwback to a time when clothing was purchased and expected to last a generation (or more).

What are the negatives of cedar?

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.

Can you paint over a cedar closet?

It can be difficult to cover the grain in cedar wood. If you don't want any of the grain to peak through, apply a primer like KILZ 2® Latex Primer before you put on your first coat of paint. I was okay with a little of the wood grain showing through because I wanted that rustic, slightly worn look.

Does a cedar closet have to be airtight?

The basic construction of a cedar closet is similar to any other closet with one exception. It must be well sealed (airtight).

Does cedar repel bugs in closet?

Cedar, enriched with natural oils, acts as a powerful shield against these persistent pests. Cedar's pest-repelling power: Cedar effectively repels a variety of insects, including: Clothing moths: Cedar's natural oils protect wool and silk garments from damage.

Do cedar closets make clothes smell?

Fresh Scent: The scent of cedar can keep your clothes smelling fresh, eliminating the need for artificial air fresheners.

What is the best wood to use in a closet?

For closets, the best choice is oak plywood. It's the most dependable and versatile option because it comes in various hues. It also has great wear resistance, which adds to its durability. From drawers to shelves, your closet will look attractive with oak plywood!

Why are my shoes molding in my closet?

Mold on shoes often happens quietly, catching many off guard. Here's what you need to know in a nutshell: Mold loves moisture: Wet conditions in closets or storage areas are a big invite. Darkness is its friend: Dimly lit places like closets provide a perfect growing space.

What is the white worm on my clothes?

The damaging stage for cloths moths are small white worm –like caterpillars with dark heads. Larvae feed on wool clothing, wall hangings, feathers, silk garments, felt, furs, hair (including taxidermy mounts), wool rugs and carpeting. They prefer fabric that has been stained with oils, blood, urine, food, or beverages.

What could be eating my clothes in my closet?

While clothes moths and carpet beetles are the most common, other bugs feed on clothes. It may surprise you that cockroaches, crickets, silverfish and termites can feed on fabrics.

What animals does cedar repel?

Bug Repellant: The oils found in cedar trees naturally repel bugs, including termites. Moths, beetles, ants and many other insects can't stand the smell of cedar.

What do mice hate the most?

13 scents that mice hate and can help you to keep them away
  • Cinnamon. This has a strong and spicy aroma that mice probably hate. ...
  • Vinegar. Mix some water and vinegar in a spray bottle to mist any areas where they have been seen more often.
  • Dryer sheets. ...
  • Cloves/clove oil. ...
  • Peppermint oil. ...
  • Teabags. ...
  • Mint toothpaste. ...
  • Ammonia.

Does cinnamon repel mice?

Mice are also likely to avoid areas where cinnamon has been applied due to its overwhelming scent.

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