12 Unexpected Uses for Red Cedar Wood Around Your Home

Explore the versatility of red cedar wood! Discover 12 unexpected ways to use this natural wonder around your home - from stylish décor to functional solutions.

February 8, 2024
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Red cedar wood is a versatile and aromatic material known for its natural beauty and durability. While it's commonly used to repel moths, its potential goes far beyond this single purpose. In this extensive guide, we'll delve deeper into twelve innovative and creative ways to incorporate red cedar wood into your home, while also highlighting its eco-friendly benefits.

1. Natural Mothball Alternative: Protect Your Wardrobe and Linens

The primary reason many people turn to red cedar wood is its natural moth-repelling properties. Red cedar contains oils and compounds that deter moths and other insects. Instead of using chemical-laden mothballs, which can have adverse health effects, opt for cedar blocks, sachets, or hangers. These not only protect your clothes and linens from moth damage but also provide a pleasant, refreshing scent to your closet.

The use of red cedar as a natural mothball alternative is not just about repelling moths; it's also a healthier and eco-friendly choice for your home. Traditional mothballs often contain toxic chemicals like naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, which can be harmful to humans and pets. Red cedar, on the other hand, offers a safe and natural solution.

When you place cedar blocks or sachets in your closets and drawers, you're not only safeguarding your clothing but also ensuring the well-being of your family. The pleasant cedar scent not only masks odours but also creates a calming atmosphere. It's a small but significant step toward creating a healthier and more environmentally conscious home.

red cedar mothballs bundle
Red Cedar Chipping Sachet

2. Garden Borders and Edging: Define Your Outdoor Space

Red cedar's resistance to decay and insects makes it an ideal choice for creating garden borders and edging. By using cedar planks or logs, you can clearly define your garden beds, pathways, or flower borders. Beyond its functionality, the rich colour and natural beauty of cedar enhance your outdoor space's aesthetics.

Creating garden borders and edging with red cedar wood not only adds a touch of elegance to your landscaping but also serves several practical purposes. Cedar's resistance to decay means that these borders can last for years, even in wet and humid conditions. This durability saves you both time and money compared to more short-lived materials.

Moreover, cedar's natural oils act as a deterrent to pests like termites and ants. This natural protection ensures that your garden borders remain intact, without the need for chemical treatments. Additionally, cedar weathers beautifully over time, acquiring a grey patina that blends seamlessly with your garden's natural surroundings.

3. Furniture Restoration: Breathe New Life into Old Pieces

Do you have worn-out or outdated furniture that you can't bear to part with? Consider using red cedar accents to rejuvenate these pieces. Cedar veneer, inlays, or even complete cedar drawers can transform your furniture while imparting that classic cedar aroma to your living area.

Furniture restoration with red cedar is a testament to the timeless appeal of this wood. Whether you have a family heirloom or a thrift store find, incorporating cedar accents can bring new life to old furniture.

Cedar veneer is an excellent choice for adding a touch of luxury to tabletops or cabinet fronts. Its fine grain and rich colour create a striking contrast that can rejuvenate a tired piece. The aroma of cedar also adds a sense of nostalgia and comfort to your living space.

For a more significant transformation, consider replacing old drawers with cedar-lined ones. Not only do they provide a fresh and pleasing scent, but they also offer natural protection against moths and other pests. Imagine the satisfaction of opening a drawer and being greeted by the warm embrace of cedar.

basket with cones
Cedar Cones

4. Indoor Planters: Greenery Meets Elegance

Red cedar's natural resistance to decay and moisture makes it an excellent choice for indoor planters. Customize cedar planters to match your interior decor. Not only will these planters elevate the look of your home, but they'll also help regulate moisture, promoting healthier plant growth.

Indoor planters crafted from red cedar wood serve as more than just decorative pieces; they create a healthier indoor environment for your plants. Cedar's natural resistance to moisture makes it an ideal choice for planters because it prevents the wood from deteriorating over time. This durability ensures that your indoor planters will last for years.

Moreover, cedar's ability to regulate moisture levels is a significant benefit for your plants. It prevents overwatering and helps maintain the right humidity levels for optimal plant growth. This natural moisture control can make a substantial difference in the health and vitality of your indoor greenery.

Indoor cedar planters also blend seamlessly with various interior design styles, from rustic to modern. Their warm, earthy tones and natural grain patterns add a touch of elegance to your living space, turning your plants into works of art.

5. Cedarwood Bathtub Trays: Relaxation Elevated

Enhance your bath time experience with a red cedarwood bathtub tray. This practical accessory provides a convenient spot for your book, glass of wine, or bath essentials while you indulge in a soak. It's both functional and visually appealing, adding a touch of spa-like luxury to your bathroom.

A cedarwood bathtub tray is the epitome of relaxation and self-care. Imagine sinking into a warm bath, surrounded by the soothing aroma of cedar, with your favourite book and a glass of wine within easy reach.

Cedar's natural resistance to moisture makes it a perfect choice for bathroom accessories. You don't have to worry about warping or damage caused by exposure to water. Instead, you can focus on enjoying your bath fully.

The tray's design options are endless. You can opt for a simple, functional tray with space for a book and a wine glass, or you can choose a more elaborate design with compartments for bath salts, candles, and even a tablet or smartphone holder. Customizing your cedarwood bathtub tray allows you to create a unique and luxurious bathing experience tailored to your preferences.

cedar wreath
Cedar Cones Wreath

6. Cedarwood Wall Art: Aesthetic Elegance

Cedar's natural beauty isn't limited to functional purposes. You can use cedarwood to create captivating wall art pieces. Whether it's intricate carvings, woodburning designs, or a simple cedar plank adorned with artwork, your walls can become a canvas for showcasing the natural elegance of red cedar wood.

Cedarwood wall art is a creative and artistic way to bring the beauty of nature into your home. It's a testament to the versatility of cedar as a medium for self-expression.

Intricate carvings in cedar can depict anything from wildlife scenes to abstract designs. The wood's fine grain and smooth texture make it a pleasure to work with, allowing artists to create intricate and detailed pieces. A cedarwood carving can become the focal point of any room, drawing the eye and sparking conversations.

Woodburning, another popular technique, involves creating designs or patterns by burning the wood's surface. The contrast between the dark burn marks and the warm cedar tones creates a visually striking effect. Cedarwood wall art can range from rustic and cozy to contemporary and minimalist, making it suitable for various interior design styles.

Even a simple cedar plank adorned with artwork can make a powerful statement. You can display inspirational quotes, family mottos, or personal mantras, turning your walls into a source of daily inspiration.

7. Aromatic Red Cedar Pet Bedding: Comfort for Your Furry Friends

Provide your pets with a cozy and aromatic sleeping environment by using cedar shavings as bedding. The natural scent of cedar can help repel fleas and ticks while offering a comfortable resting place for your furry companions. Your pets will appreciate the added comfort, and you'll appreciate the natural pest repellent properties.

Choosing cedar shavings as bedding for your pets is a thoughtful way to ensure their comfort and well-being. Cedar's natural aroma not only adds a pleasant fragrance to your pet's resting place but also serves as a natural pest repellent.

The scent of cedar is a powerful deterrent for fleas, ticks, and other insects that can bother your pets. It's a safer and more eco-friendly alternative to chemical pest repellents, which can have adverse effects on your pets' health.

Moreover, cedar shavings provide excellent insulation and cushioning for your pets. Whether you have a dog, cat, rabbit, or other small animals, they'll appreciate the soft and cozy bedding. Cedar shavings also help regulate moisture, keeping your pets dry and comfortable.

Using cedar bedding can be particularly beneficial in outdoor kennels or pet houses, where pests are more likely to be a nuisance. It creates a natural barrier against unwanted intruders while offering a comfortable and aromatic retreat for your beloved pets.

8. Cedarwood Drawer Liners: Extend the Freshness

Extend the benefits of cedar to other areas of your home by lining your drawers with cedar planks or liners. These liners not only keep your clothing and linens fresh but also add a touch of elegance to your storage spaces. Every time you open a drawer, you'll be greeted by the soothing scent of cedar.

Cedarwood drawer liners are a delightful addition to any dresser, cabinet, or closet. They serve both practical and aesthetic purposes, enhancing your storage spaces in multiple ways.

The primary function of cedarwood drawer liners is to keep your clothing and linens fresh and pest-free. The natural oils in cedar act as a powerful deterrent against moths, silverfish, and other fabric-damaging pests. You can say goodbye to the frustration of discovering holes or stains on your favourite clothes.

Beyond their protective qualities, cedarwood drawer liners add a touch of luxury to your daily routine. Opening a drawer and being greeted by the warm and inviting scent of cedar is a small pleasure that can make a big difference in your day. It creates a sense of order and serenity in your living spaces.

Cedarwood drawer liners come in various forms, from simple cedar planks cut to fit your drawers to pre-made cedar liners that can be easily installed. They're an investment in the longevity of your clothing and linens, ensuring that they remain in pristine condition for years to come.

9. Cedarwood Candle Holders: Ambiance and Aroma

Craft unique candle holders from cedarwood logs or planks. These rustic candle holders not only serve as functional pieces but also infuse your home with the delightful scent of cedar when you light your favourite scented candles. They create a cozy and aromatic atmosphere in any room.

Cedarwood candle holders are more than just functional pieces; they're works of art that elevate your home's ambiance and aesthetics. They combine the natural beauty of cedar with the warm glow of candlelight, creating a captivating and inviting atmosphere.

The process of crafting cedarwood candle holders can be as simple or elaborate as you desire. For a rustic and minimalist look, you can use cedar logs or branches as candle holders. Their natural shapes and textures add a touch of the outdoors to your interior decor. For a more polished appearance, you can create custom candle holders from cedar planks, which can be stained or finished to match your decor.

When you light scented candles in cedarwood holders, the combination of fragrances creates a sensory experience that can uplift your mood and relax your senses. Cedar's natural aroma complements a wide range of candle scents, from lavender and vanilla to cedarwood or pine. The result is a cozy and aromatic atmosphere that makes your home feel warm and inviting.

Cedarwood candle holders are also versatile in terms of placement. You can use them as centerpieces on dining tables, as accents on side tables, or even as decorative pieces in bathrooms or bedrooms. Their rustic elegance adds a touch of nature to any room, creating a serene and harmonious ambiance.

10. Cedarwood Birdhouses: A Haven for Feathered Friends

Attract a variety of birds to your garden by building cedarwood birdhouses. Cedar's natural insulating properties keep the interiors of these birdhouses cozy, providing a safe haven for birds year-round. These charming additions not only invite wildlife but also add a rustic touch to your outdoor space.

Cedarwood birdhouses are a delightful way to bring the beauty of nature into your garden while providing shelter and comfort to feathered visitors. These charming additions serve as both functional habitats for birds and decorative elements for your outdoor space.

Cedar's natural insulation properties are particularly advantageous for birdhouses. It helps maintain a stable temperature inside the birdhouse, keeping it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This insulation ensures that birds have a comfortable and safe place to nest year-round.

When you hang cedarwood birdhouses in your garden, you'll attract a diverse range of bird species, from sparrows and chickadees to wrens and bluebirds. Different bird species have different preferences for the size and design of their nests, so consider offering a variety of cedar birdhouses to accommodate various feathered friends.

The rustic charm of cedarwood birdhouses adds character to your garden. You can paint them in vibrant colours to create eye-catching focal points, or you can let the natural beauty of cedar shine through with a clear protective finish. Either way, these birdhouses become not only functional shelters but also decorative elements that enhance your outdoor space.

11. Cedarwood Ceiling Beams: Architectural Elegance

For those looking to make a bold statement, consider installing cedarwood ceiling beams in your home. These beams add warmth and character to any room while showcasing the natural beauty of cedar. They can transform an ordinary space into an extraordinary one, creating a sense of rustic elegance.

Cedarwood ceiling beams are a striking architectural feature that can completely transform the look and feel of a room. They create a sense of grandeur, warmth, and sophistication, turning an ordinary space into an extraordinary one.

One of the defining characteristics of cedar is its stunning grain pattern and rich colour variation. Cedarwood beams highlight these natural attributes, becoming the focal point of any room they grace. Whether you have a modern, minimalist interior or a more traditional decor style, cedarwood beams can complement your design while adding a touch of rustic elegance.

Cedarwood's durability and resistance to decay make it an excellent choice for ceiling beams. Unlike some other woods that may require frequent maintenance or replacement, cedar beams are known for their longevity and resilience. They can withstand the test of time, providing both structural support and aesthetic appeal for generations.

When it comes to installation, cedarwood beams can be added to existing ceilings or incorporated into new construction. They work well in various room settings, from living rooms and kitchens to bedrooms and outdoor patios. Whether they're used for structural purposes or purely decorative, cedarwood ceiling beams infuse your living spaces with a sense of warmth and grandeur.

cedar cutting board
Cutting Board

12. Cedarwood Kitchen Accessories: Culinary Charm

Bring the charm of cedar into your kitchen with custom accessories such as cutting boards, spice racks, and utensil holders. Cedar's natural oils can help repel insects, making it an ideal material for food-related items. These unique additions not only serve a functional purpose but also add a touch of culinary elegance to your kitchen.

Cedarwood kitchen accessories combine functionality and aesthetics, bringing a touch of natural beauty to your culinary space. From cutting boards to spice racks, these items offer unique benefits while enhancing your kitchen's charm.

  1. Cedar Cutting Boards: Cedarwood is naturally resistant to insects and moisture, making it an ideal material for cutting boards. Unlike plastic or glass cutting boards, cedar is gentle on knife blades, reducing wear and tear on your kitchen knives. It also imparts a delightful cedar aroma to your kitchen, adding a sensory element to your food preparation.
  2. Cedar Spice Racks: Organize your spices in style with cedarwood spice racks. Cedar's natural repellent properties help protect your spices from pests, ensuring that they remain fresh and flavourful. Additionally, the warm tones and fine grain of cedar create an attractive backdrop for your spice collection, turning it into a decorative element in your kitchen.
  3. Cedar Utensil Holders: Keep your kitchen utensils organized and within easy reach with cedar utensil holders. These holders not only offer practical storage but also infuse your kitchen with the pleasant scent of cedar. Cedar's natural oils help deter insects and keep your utensils in excellent condition.
  4. Cedar Pot and Pan Protectors: Protect your cookware from scratches and dings with cedar pot and pan protectors. These soft and aromatic liners provide a cushioning layer that helps preserve the finish of your pots and pans. They're particularly useful for cast iron cookware, which can be prone to rust.
  5. Cedar Wine Racks: If you're a wine enthusiast, consider cedar wine racks for your kitchen or wine cellar. Cedar's natural humidity control properties can help maintain the ideal conditions for wine storage, ensuring that your bottles age gracefully. The rich scent of cedar adds an extra layer of sophistication to your wine storage area.

Cedarwood kitchen accessories are not only functional but also add a touch of culinary elegance to your daily routines. They're a testament to the versatility of cedar as a material that enhances both the aesthetics and functionality of your kitchen.

red cedar mothballs - blocks
Red Cedar Mothballs

Red Cedar: An Eco-Friendly Choice

Beyond its versatility and pleasant scent, red cedar is an eco-friendly choice for your home projects. It's a renewable resource, and its durability means less frequent replacements, reducing your environmental impact. By choosing red cedar, you're not only enhancing your living space but also making a sustainable choice that benefits the planet.

In conclusion, red cedar wood offers far more than just mothball alternatives. Its natural beauty, durability, and aromatic properties make it a versatile and eco-friendly addition to any home. Whether you're repurposing old furniture, enhancing your garden, or adding a touch of elegance to your living spaces, red cedar wood is a fantastic choice.

Make the most of this remarkable wood, and enjoy its numerous benefits throughout your home. From wardrobes to gardens and beyond, red cedar wood adds a touch of natural beauty and practicality to your daily life.

Ready to explore the world of red cedar wood?

Visit our shop to discover high-quality red cedar products, perfect for your home. Say goodbye to chemical mothballs and embrace the natural beauty and versatility of red cedar wood.

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About Wood Blocks

Our mission is to empower you with the knowledge to curate a wardrobe that not only reflects your personal style but also aligns with environmentally friendly practices. From exploring the wonders of natural mothballs and sustainable garment storage to diving deep into DIY solutions and green living, we're here to guide you on a journey towards a more eco-conscious, stylish, and intentional lifestyle.

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