Giles and Kendall Cedar Oil: Does It Work? (300 Sq Ft Per Can)
Giles and Kendall Cedar Oil is 100% pure oil distilled from Aromatic Eastern Redcedar — rubbed onto unfinished wood with a cloth, one 8 oz can renews scent and insect resistance over roughly 300 square feet. It is formulated for indoor, unfinished cedar only and is not food-grade. This guide covers how the oil works, how to apply it correctly, and how it compares to the brand’s other cedar products.
The Power Of Cedar Oil
Giles and Kendall Cedar Oil works by re-saturating the wood’s surface with the same aromatic compounds a freshly cut cedar board has, which is what gives cedar its natural insect-repelling and mildew-resistant qualities in the first place. See our full guide to the benefits of cedar oil for a complete breakdown beyond wood treatment, or our broader cedar oil for wood guide for how cedar oils in general compare.
Natural Insect Repellent
Cedar oil acts as a natural insect repellent, warding off moths, ticks, and other pests without synthetic chemicals.
Anti-fungal Properties
Its anti-fungal properties help combat mold and mildew on unfinished wood surfaces, which is why it’s a common choice for cedar closets and chests that trap moisture.
Giles And Kendall Cedar Oil Products
Giles and Kendall sells its cedar oil primarily as a single 8 oz can, with a low-luster clear variant also available. Both are pure distilled cedar oil with no added synthetic scent — the difference is finish sheen, not formula.
Cedar Oil Wood Treatment
- Renews the original cedar aroma on unfinished wood
- Helps deter moths and other fabric-eating insects
- One 8 oz can covers approximately 300 sq ft
How To Apply Giles And Kendall Cedar Oil
Cedar oil only works on unfinished wood — it soaks into bare cedar rather than sitting on top of a sealed surface, so any lacquer, paint, or existing finish has to come off first.
- Confirm the surface is unfinished: Giles and Kendall Cedar Oil only penetrates bare, unsealed cedar — sand off any old finish first.
- Apply with a clean cloth: Pour a small amount onto a soft cloth and rub it into the wood in the direction of the grain.
- Cover the full surface evenly: Work in sections so no area dries out before you’ve wiped it — one can treats about 300 sq ft.
- Let it absorb: Leave the surface uncovered for a few hours so the oil fully soaks in before closing doors or drawers.
- Reapply every few months: The scent and insect-repelling effect fade over time, so plan to re-oil cedar closets and chests roughly twice a year.
📊 One 8 oz can of Giles and Kendall Cedar Oil covers approximately 300 square feet of unfinished wood. — Source: Giles & Kendall Oil, manufacturer site, 2026
Best Giles And Kendall Cedar Oil Pick
Cedar Oil – Giles and Kendall, 8 oz – $29.59
The standard 8 oz can this guide is built around — covers about 300 sq ft of unfinished wood, matching the coverage figure cited in the how-to-apply steps above.
- Best for: Restoring scent on cedar closets, chests, and unfinished furniture
- Why we picked it: The exact 8 oz size and coverage this guide’s application steps are based on
- Main drawback: Some users report the scent fades faster than expected on porous wood
Compare more Giles and Kendall Cedar Oil options
 Option 1 Cedar Oil 8 OZ Can (A) – $27.76
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 Option 2 Cedar Oil 8 OZ Can, 2-Pack – $61.27
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 Option 3 Low Luster Clear Cedar Oil, 8 oz – $33.72
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Benefits Of Using Cedar Oil
Discover the natural benefits of cedar oil by Giles and Kendall for a refreshing aromatic experience that also protects against pests. Cedar oil, derived from Aromatic Eastern Redcedar, offers an array of advantages for household use, including safety around pets and children and a biodegradable, eco-friendly profile.
Safe For Pets And Children
Cedar oil is generally considered safe for use around pets and children when applied as directed to unfinished wood, unlike synthetic pesticide sprays. As with any essential-oil-based product, keep it out of reach of small pets and children until fully absorbed and dry.
Environmentally-friendly Alternative
Cedar oil serves as a biodegradable alternative to conventional pest-control products. Unlike chemical insecticides, it does not require special disposal and breaks down naturally without contaminating water sources.
How To Incorporate Cedar Oil Into Your Home
Giles and Kendall Cedar Oil is built for unfinished cedar surfaces — closets, chests, and raw furniture — rather than sealed or painted wood. Beyond the closet, it also pairs well with a broader wood furniture restoration routine.
Protecting Clothes And Linens
Applying cedar oil directly to unfinished cedar closet walls, shelves, or hangers restocks the wood’s own aroma rather than masking odors with a spray. A few simple ways to work it into a wardrobe routine:
- Rub a small amount onto unfinished cedar closet walls, shelves, or hangers with a cloth — do not apply directly to fabric.
- Consider unfinished cedar hangers or blocks, which respond to the oil the same way a closet wall does.
- Reapply roughly every 3–6 months as the scent fades — sanding the surface lightly first helps the oil re-absorb.
Preserving Wood And Furniture
On unfinished wood furniture, cedar oil helps repel insects and resist mildew without changing the wood’s natural color. For finished or previously stained furniture, remove the old finish first — the oil cannot penetrate through varnish, paint, or polyurethane.
What Real Buyers Say
Giles and Kendall 8 oz Cedar Oil holds a 4.4 out of 5 rating on Home Depot, with 84% of reviewers recommending it. The most common praise is that it restores the color and grain of aged cedar and “makes the colors jump out” on unfinished wood. The most common complaint is that the scent is milder than expected compared to raw cedar shavings or stronger cedar sprays — a real limitation worth knowing before buying, not just a footnote.
Frequently Asked Questions For Giles And Kendall Cedar Oil
Which Cedar Oil Is Best?
The best cedar oil is one that is 100% pure and sourced from high-quality cedar trees. Look for organic options for optimal effectiveness.
What Is The Best Oil Treatment For Cedar?
The best oil treatment for cedar is linseed oil or tung oil, as they penetrate and protect the wood. These oils enhance the natural beauty and durability of cedar, providing long-lasting protection against weathering and insect damage. Regular application of the oil treatment helps maintain the wood’s appearance and strength.
What Is The Best Cedar Oil For Cedar Chests?
The best cedar oil for cedar chests is determined by personal preference and needs. Some popular options include 100% pure cedar essential oil or cedar oil sprays, such as those specifically designed for repelling moths and other pests. It is important to choose a high-quality product that is safe and effective for your specific requirements.
What Does Cedar Oil Do For The Body?
Cedar oil offers several benefits for the body. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can ease pain and reduce swelling. It also acts as a natural insect repellent and can help with skin conditions like eczema. Cedar oil is also known for its calming effects and can promote relaxation.
Conclusion
Giles and Kendall Cedar Oil is a straightforward, single-ingredient option for restoring the scent and insect-repelling properties of unfinished cedar — one 8 oz can covers roughly 300 sq ft and needs reapplication every few months. It works best on bare wood, not sealed or painted surfaces, and its main trade-off is a milder scent than some buyers expect.
