A Cedar Dream

That's it. You've had it with the moths that continue to invade your closet and bear young that eat holes in your clothes. While you could put out some mothballs, you're looking for a larger fix that will not only resolve your moth problems but your need for more closet space. You're planning to build a large cedar closet and you could use some direction.

First, you need to decide where you are going to put your new cedar closet. Keep in mind that in order to repel moths, you will need to use cedar with a fairly strong scent. If you are extra sensitive to scents or don't want the scent to permeate your bedroom, then you may want to consider putting your closet elsewhere, such as in the attic or the basement.

Along with the site of the closet, you must figure its dimensions and select a design based on those dimensions. Study the items you plan to store in the closet and select a size and design for them. If you have loads and loads of clothes, for example, you will probably want a fairly large closet. If you have a lot of long coats, you will want a design that includes a fairly high rod from which to hang those coats.

Next, you must gather all of the necessary supplies. One of the most important will be the wood itself. Just any old cedar will not do. You need strong, aromatic cedar like Eastern red cedar. Depending upon your budget, you may purchase planks or less expensive cedar chip panels. Along with the wood, you will need a quality exterior door that will provide a good seal and prevent air from entering and reducing the scent of the cedar.

With the site, dimensions, design and supplies in hand, you can then build your closet. Follow the design instructions carefully, and before you install the cedar lining, make sure you fill all of the gaps between the floor and the drywall with caulk. This will help reduce air infiltration. You should also apply weather stripping around the door. Do not varnish, shellac or paint your cedar closet, or you will clog the pores of the wood and weaken its scent considerably.

When complete, your cedar closet will require little care other than an occasional dusting. Be sure you keep the door closed to cut down on air infiltration. Over time, your closet may lose of some of its aroma. To restore it, simply sand the wood with some fine-grade sandpaper and apply a coat of natural clear oil extract.

If taken care of properly, your cedar closet will last for years to come and repel those pesky moths.