The way to Remove Mold From a Cedar Chest

Bleach is often in mold-removal remedies for a variety of surfaces, but might harm or lighten cedar. Using a more fitting all-natural solution not only corrects the problem, but also lets you keep your wood’s rich color, and even enhances its pleasant aroma.

Err on the Side of Caution

Mold lifts easily from just about any surface, even rough cedar. Protect yourself with a well-fitting N-95 respirator, long rubber gloves and safety glasses without venting holes to clean mould, recommends the Environmental Protection Agency. Working outside, use a plastic putty knife to carefully loosen or detach the mould from the wood. Gently sweep the mould with a whisk broom and dustpan. Sand the torso with coarse sandpaper to get rid of dark mould stains and a general musty odor, then sweep up the sanding dust — vacuumed mould particles will contaminate a typical vacuum cleaner and spread spores, advises the North Carolina State University.

A Natural Alternative

Cedar Oil contains natural mold-killing properties. Mix the oil as directed on the label, which might indicate a solution of 1 tbsp of cedar oil into 1 cup of water. Use a clean spray bottle or mister to spray on the entire torso to limit future mould growth and boost the wood evenly. A cedar-oil diffuser — set in an empty trunk — can also prevent mold growth. Either way, an oil that’s refined from Eastern red cedar can achieve a pungent cedar aroma, if desired.

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