What Are Cedar Chips Good For

If you’re looking for a natural way to solve common household and garden problems, you might ask what are cedar chips good for. These fragrant wood shavings are a versatile natural pest repellent that can help in many areas of your home and yard.

Their fresh, woody scent is pleasant to people but drives away many bugs and critters. This makes them a safe and effective choice compared to harsh chemicals.

You can use them indoors and outdoors with ease. Let’s look at all the practical ways cedar chips can work for you.

Cedar wood contains natural oils and compounds, like thujone. These substances are what give the wood its classic aroma. Insects and some animals find this smell very irritating, so they avoid it.

This isn’t just an old tale; it’s a method people have relied on for generations. The chips slowly release this scent over time, providing long-lasting protection.

They are a mulit-purpose tool in your natural home care kit. From the closet to the garden shed, they have a job to do.

1. Protecting Your Clothes from Moths

Moths can ruin wool, cashmere, and other natural fabrics. Cedar chips are a classic solution for keeping them out of your drawers and storage chests.

Here’s how to use them effectively:

Place a handful of chips in a breathable muslin bag or a perforated container.
Tuck these sachets into drawers, closets, and storage bins with your off-season clothes.
For best results, gently sand the chips every few months to refresh the scent. This releases more of the protective oils.

They leave your clothes smelling woodsy and avoid the strong chemical smell of mothballs.

2. Repelling Pests in the Garden

You can use cedar chips as a protective barrier around your plants. They can help deter slugs, snails, and even some crawling insects.

It’s a simple two-step process:

Spread a layer of chips around the base of plants you want to protect, like hostas or lettuce.
Replenish the layer after heavy rain, as the scent will fade when the chips get very wet.

Remember, they work best as a repellent, not a killer. They create a zone pests don’t want to cross.

3. Creating a Bug-Free Outdoor Space

No one enjoys mosquitoes and flies ruining a patio gathering. Cedar chips can help make your seating areas more comfortable.

Fill decorative planters or wide, shallow containers with cedar chips.
Place these containers under chairs, tables, and near doorways.
The ambient scent helps keep flying bugs at a distance. For a stronger effect, you can occasionally sprinkle a little cedar oil on the chips.

4. Deterring Rodents and Other Critters

Mice, rats, and squirrels often look for places to nest in sheds, attics, or garages. The strong smell of cedar can encourage them to look elsewhere.

To use them for this purpose:

Identify potential entry points or nesting areas, like corners or along walls.
Liberally sprinkle or pile cedar chips in these spots.
Check the chips periodically and replace them when the scent seems faint.

This is a great non-toxic first line of defence for your storage spaces.

5. A Pleasant and Functional Mulch

Cedar chips make an excellent mulch for garden beds and pathways. They have several advantages over other materials.

Weed Suppression: A thick layer blocks sunlight, preventing weed seeds from germinating good.
Moisture Retention: They help soil retain water, reducing how often you need to irrigate.
Slow Decomposition: Cedar breaks down slower than pine or spruce, so it lasts longer.
Natural Repellent Bonus: As a mulch, they continue to work repelling insects from your garden soil.

6. Natural Pet Bedding and Litter Additive

For small animal bedding, like in a hamster or rabbit cage, cedar chips are popular. They control odor and may help repel fleas.

Important Note: Some vets advise against cedar for small pets with respiratory issues, as the strong aroma can be irritating. For dogs, you can use cedar chips in an outdoor dog house to freshen it and deter fleas. Always check with your vet if your unsure.

7. Freshening Up Your Home

Beyond repelling pests, cedar chips are a fantastic natural air freshener. You can make simple sachets for shoes, cars, or musty basements.

Simply fill a small cloth bag with chips and tie it closed. Place one in a gym bag, suitcase, or laundry room to neutralize odors. They work much better than artificial sprays for certain smells.

How to Refresh Cedar Chips When the Scent Fades

Over time, the oils in cedar evaporate. Don’t throw the old chips away; you can easily renew them.

Take your faded chips and place them in a bucket or bowl.
Lightly sand them with coarse sandpaper or give them a quick rub against a rough surface. This opens up the wood grain.
For an extra boost, add 2-3 drops of pure cedarwood essential oil and mix well.

Your chips will be good as new and ready for another season of use.

Where to Buy Cedar Chips and What Kind to Get

You can find cedar chips at most garden centers, home improvement stores, and pet supply stores. Look for chips labeled as “Eastern Red Cedar” or “Aromatic Cedar,” as these have the highest concentration of repellent oils.

Avoid “white cedar” or “cedar-scented” products, which may not be as effective. You can buy them in small bags for closet use or in large bulk bags for mulching projects.

Important Limitations and Safety Tips

While cedar chips are very useful, they aren’t a magic bullet. Here’s what to keep in mind:

They repel, but do not kill, insects or rodents. A severe infestation may need additional methods.
Keep chips away from direct contact with young seedlings, as the oils can sometimes inhibit growth.
Avoid using them in aquariums or water features, as the oils can be harmful to fish.
Always wear gloves when handling large quantities, as the dust can be drying to your skin.
Store extra chips in a sealed bag to preserve there scent until you need them.

FAQ About Cedar Chips

How long do cedar chips last?
Typically, 3 to 6 months. Their lifespan depends on exposure to air, sunlight, and moisture. Refresh them when the scent becomes weak.

Are cedar chips safe for dogs and cats?
For bedding, cedar is generally considered safe for dogs. For cats, it’s best to avoid using chips in litter boxes, as cats are sensitive to strong smells and oils. Consult your vet for specific concerns.

Can I use cedar chips in my vegetable garden?
Yes, they make a fine mulch. Some gardeners believe they can slightly acidify soil over time, so it’s good to monitor your soil pH if you use them annually.

Do cedar chips repel termites?
Cedar is naturally resistant to termites and decay, making it a good choice for mulch near house foundations. However, it is not a guaranteed barrier against an active termite colony.

What’s the difference between cedar chips and cedar shavings?
Shavings are thinner and smaller, often used for pet bedding. Chips are chunkier and better for mulching and outdoor repellent applications. Both work, but chips last longer outdoors.

As you can see, the answer to what are cedar chips good for covers many areas. They are a simple, natural product with powerful benefits. By adding them to your routine, you can tackle pests and odors in an eco-friendly way.