Cedar Chest FAQ's

A cedar chest is more than a gorgeous piece of furniture.  It's a nod to our heritage, a wink at our legacy.  People have some great questions regarding cedar chests.  Here are some answers to the most common concerns:

In the past, cedar chests were the traditional gifts to girls on their 16th birthdays.  Is that too old-fashioned for today?

Not at all.  Although great for her Sweet Sixteen, a cedar chest also makes an appropriate high school graduation gift.  In the olden days, young women got married; now they go off to college. A cedar chest will take them there.

Are they only appropriate gifts for young girls?

Cedar chests are excellent gifts for women of all ages to celebrate any occasion.

Can a cedar chest really help keep clothing in good condition?

Absolutely. Natural oils in cedar wood act as an insect repellant that also resists fungal growth.  Naturally, a solid box blocks damaging sunlight, but cedar boxes also repel excess moisture.  Clothes, photographs, and important papers stored inside a cedar chest are protected from decay and rot.

Isn't it better to hang clothes for storage?

Actually, it's worse.  Folded clothes retain shape better than hanging.  Creases can be easily ironed out.  Hanging clothes, on the other hand, will stretch fabrics.  Also, clothes stored in cedar chests will have a pleasant scent.

What can I put inside a cedar chest?

Clothing is just one item that keeps well in a cedar chest.  Anything you want to preserve will rest protected in a cedar chest.  Family photo albums, memorabilia, and heirlooms of all kinds all fit nicely.  You can also slip in things you periodically use.  Extra blankets or seasonal bedding are conveniently stored at the foot of the bed.

Do cedar chests demand a lot of maintenance?

Resilient hardwoods require very little care.  Occasionally dust with a soft cloth.  Even a soft brush attachment on your vacuum works well to keep the cedar chest clean.  Extend the life of your cedar chest with occasional applications of paste wax.  Prevent cracking and keep the chest in a stable environment with no sudden temperature fluctuations.  As with any wood, use coasters when resting drinking glasses on the surface.

More information on cedar chests