How to Move a Cedar Chest

A cedar chest looks like it should be light since it is just a wood box, but solid cedar construction alone runs 40 to 80 pounds empty, and most chests are stuffed full of heavy quilts and blankets on top of that. Empty it completely before you try to lift it.

Pro tip: If your cedar chest smells strong from years of closed storage, leave the lid propped open for a day at the new house before refilling it; fresh air helps the cedar scent settle to a normal level again.

Watch out: Never assume a cedar chest is light just because it looks like a simple wood box; solid cedar construction alone often weighs 40 to 80 pounds before anything is loaded inside.

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