Revive an Aromatic Cedar Closet

Everyone likes the woodsy smell of a new aromatic cedar closet or chest. But the fragrance diminishes once the cedar oils evaporate and dust clogs the wood pores. You can revive much of the aroma by sanding and cleaning the paneling.

Steps

  1. Start by emptying the closet, laying down floor protection and draping the area with plastic sheeting to control the sanding dust.
  2. Sand the wood using 100 or 120 grit paper and a power sander. Move the sander slowly back and forth under medium pressure, changing the sandpaper when it’s clogged with dust. To avoid “chatter marks” on inside corners and door trim, grip the sander firmly and move it up and down without touching the adjacent walls and trim.
  3. Clean the paneling by vacuuming and then wiping it with tack cloths. Avoid using a damp cloth or sponge to remove the cedar dust. Wet-cleaning may raise the wood grain and leave a rough surface and water stains.
  4. Leave the wood unfinished and fill up the closet again.

Tips

  • See the external links below for more detailed instructions.

Warnings

  • Wear a dust mask when sanding.

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