See also:
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Cedar Closets
Eastern red cedar has been used for many
years in closets to prevent damage to clothes
and blankets caused by moths, silverfish,
cockroaches, and mildew. The natural oils
in this wood give it an attractive, spicy
scent that repels insects and is particularly
effective in protecting woolens. If you are
thinking of installing a cedar closet in
your home, consider the following:
- Any closet can be converted to or constructed
to be a cedar closet by putting in a cedar
lining. The least expensive way to do this
is to use waferboard (also known as pressboard
or chipboard) panels that are made from red
cedar chips to form ¼ inch thick boards.
Cedar plywood panels, also 1/4 inches thick,
are more expensive because they are made
from top quality red cedar veneers. Both
of these linings are quick and easy to install
with panel adhesives or nails. The most expensive
linings are constructed from cedar lumber
that has been milled for tongue and groove
installation. These are time consuming to
put in, as the boards must be hand fitted.
- Portable fabric wardrobes that are easy to
assemble can be purchased with cedar floors
or linings. These are especially useful for
storing out of season clothing, linens, and
blankets. Some models come with wheels for
extra convenience.
- Stackable closet components made from cedar
are also available. They include drawers,
shelves, and shoe racks. Since these units
can be mixed and matched, they can be installed
in any existing closet space.
- Some people do not want the smell of cedar
to permeate their sleeping
space. Many find
it preferable to locate a cedar
closet in
the attic, basement, or other
more remote
area of the house, especially
if the closet
will be used for out of season
storage.
Over time the cedar’s smell will
lose some
of its
intensity. A light sanding will easily renew
the scent; but some people are particularly
sensitive to cedar dust, so they should be
sure to wear a dust mask and keep their skin
covered while sanding the cedar. A light
application of cedar oil rubbed into the
wood will also refresh the smell. |
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