If you’ve ever stepped into a cedar-lined closet or opened an old cedar chest, you know the scent. That fresh, woodsy smell isn’t just nostalgic—it’s practical. Cedar plywood has been trusted in American homes for centuries, thanks to its durability, insect resistance, and timeless beauty.
Back in colonial New England, settlers relied on cedar for shingles and siding. Fast forward to today, and still finds its way into closets, chests, and outdoor projects across the country. It has stood the test of time—and for good reason.
Why Cedar Plywood Stands Out
Cedar has a little secret most woods can’t match: it makes its own oils that bugs simply don’t like. That means no mothballs tucked into drawers, no chemical sprays in the closet, just the wood doing the job on its own. It’s one of the reasons people have been lining closets and building cedar chests for generations.
I’ve used it myself in places where fabric gets stored the most — closet ceilings, the bottoms of drawers, even in a chest I keep blankets in. The scent is pleasant, not overpowering, and it gives some peace of mind knowing clothes and linens aren’t being slowly chewed by moths.
The fragrance does fade after a while, but it doesn’t disappear completely. A light sanding is usually enough to bring the smell right back, which is one of those little tricks woodworkers pass along. It makes cedar a practical choice that keeps on working long after you’ve finished the project.
Cedar Plywood at a Glance: Key Benefits
If you’re wondering why it has stayed popular for so long, the answer comes down to a mix of practicality and natural charm. Here are some of the biggest advantages that make it stand out from other plywood options:
Feature
Why It Matters
Natural insect resistance
Protects clothes and fabrics from moths without chemicals
Lightweight yet strong
About 80% the strength of oak but easier to handle
Easy to cut and finish
Doesn’t warp much, takes stain/finish evenly
Moisture resistance
Handles humidity better than pine or fir
Eco-friendly
Naturally renewable and requires no chemical treatments
Easy to Work With, Hard Not to Love
Cedar plywood is one of the easiest materials for DIYers and professionals alike:
Cuts cleanly with hand or power tools
Rarely splits or warps
Lightweight panels are easy to maneuver
Straight grain makes it visually appealing even when unfinished
Whether you’re building furniture or paneling a closet, cedar gives you performance and beauty without the headaches of harder, denser woods.
Two Types of Cedar to Know
Most cedar plywood sold in the U.S. falls into two categories:
Aromatic Red Cedar
Strong, distinctive scent
Best for closets, trunks, dresser drawers, and storage areas
Closet lining – Adds scent and moth resistance. A cedar-lined closet keeps clothes fresh and helps protect them from insects without relying on chemicals.
Under-bed storage boxes – Protect seasonal clothes. They’re simple to build, slide neatly out of the way, and the cedar keeps blankets and sweaters smelling clean.
Garden planters – Withstands moisture outdoors. Cedar’s natural resistance to rot makes it a reliable choice for raised beds and outdoor boxes.
Patio benches – Durable with natural charm. The wood weathers gracefully and gives outdoor seating a warm, rustic feel.
Rustic wall paneling – Adds character to accent walls. It instantly brings warmth and a bit of cabin style into a mudroom, basement, or den.
Cedar plywood requires little upkeep, but you can extend its life with a few simple steps:
Refresh scent with light sanding when it fades
Use a clear outdoor finish on exterior projects to prevent graying
Keep panels elevated off ground contact to avoid water damage
Reapply finishes every 2–3 years for outdoor furniture
Pros and Cons of Cedar Plywood
Pros
Natural insect and moth resistance
Lightweight but strong
Easy to cut and finish
Beautiful warm tones
Eco-friendly and chemical-free
Cons
More expensive than pine or fir
Scent fades over time (but can be refreshed)
The grain pattern is less dramatic in plywood than in solid boards
Is Cedar Plywood Eco-Friendly?
Yes. Cedar grows relatively quickly, requires no chemical treatments, and, when harvested responsibly, is considered a sustainable building material.
Cedar doesn’t act like most woods. It grows fast enough that you don’t feel guilty using it, and it has this built-in resistance to bugs and rot that means you’re not spraying chemicals or painting on heavy preservatives. That’s part of why old cedar trunks and closets still hold up so well — the wood is basically doing the work for you. When I’ve bought cedar plywood in the past, I’ve noticed some yards label certain stacks as FSC-certified, and the guys behind the counter are usually happy to explain where it came from. Asking that one quick question gives you peace of mind that your boards were harvested the right way
What Does Cedar Plywood Look Like?
One of the reasons people love cedar plywood is the way it looks. The color can shift from pale, creamy sapwood to rich, reddish-brown heartwood, often blending into subtle bands. Solid cedar boards sometimes show dramatic swirls and patterns, but it is cut differently. Most sheets are rotary-sliced, meaning the veneer is peeled from the log in long, thin layers. That process produces a surface that’s more even and consistent, with a softer grain that still highlights cedar’s natural warmth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cedar Plywood
Is cedar plywood good for outdoor use? Yes, particularly Western Red Cedar. It naturally holds up against moisture and decay, which is why you’ll see it on siding, outdoor trim, and even patio furniture. If you’re building something that sits in the weather, cedar is one of the safer bets among softwoods.
Does cedar plywood repel moths naturally? It does. Aromatic Red Cedar gives off oils and that strong cedar scent, which moths and insects can’t stand. That’s the reason so many old cedar chests and closets still smell fresh decades later.
Can I stain cedar plywood? Definitely. Cedar takes stain evenly and doesn’t blotch the way pine sometimes does. For darker colors, I recommend applying a pre-stain conditioner first—it evens out the finish and makes the final coat look more professional.
Where can I buy cedar plywood? Most lumberyards and home centers will carry at least a few sheets, though the selection can be hit-or-miss depending on where you live. Online wood suppliers are another option if you’re after a specific thickness or grade.
What’s the best thickness for closet lining? Usually 1/8″ to 1/4″ panels. They’re light enough to cut and fasten easily, but thick enough to give you that cedar scent and protection against moths. For drawers, 1/8″ is often plenty.
Final Thoughts: Why Choose Cedar Plywood?
Cedar plywood is more than just a pretty material—it’s practical, long-lasting, and naturally protective. Whether you’re lining a closet, building furniture, or designing outdoor seating, cedar offers warmth and performance that’s tough to beat.
It combines beauty, strength, and function. It’s easy to handle, stands up to the elements, and protects against insects—no chemicals needed. If you’re planning a woodworking project that needs to last and look great, cedar is a solid bet.
Want to stay organized while working on your cedar plywood project? We created a free printable checklist to help you plan every step—from measuring to finishing.
Use it to map out your build, choose the right materials, and track your progress.
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