I still remember the cedar chest in my grandmother’s bedroom. The lid creaked when she opened it, and the smell hit you before you saw anything inside. Thirty years later, that same chest holds quilts she stitched in the 1970s, and the cedar aroma still pushes back when you lift the lid.
That experience sent me down a rabbit hole. Over the past three months, our team researched 24 cedar chest models, talked to knitwear collectors on Reddit who swear by them for moth protection, and measured everything from weight capacity to interior depth. This guide is the result – the best cedar chests for bedrooms available right now, with honest notes on construction quality and real user feedback.
A cedar chest is more than storage. The aromatic oils in red cedar naturally repel moths and silverfish, absorb excess moisture, and leave linens smelling fresh. Whether you want an Amish-made heirloom piece, a budget-friendly bench chest for the foot of your bed, or a modern lockable trunk, the best cedar chests for bedrooms in 2026 deliver both function and timeless style.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Picks for Best Cedar Chests for Bedrooms (October 2026)
- Best Cedar Chests for Bedrooms in 2026
- 1. Powell Furniture Chadwick Cedar Chest – Budget-Friendly Family Favorite
- 2. Coaster Home Furnishings Paula Wood Cedar Chest – Best Value Pick
- 3. Hope Woodworking Amish Made Cedar Chest – Solid Wood Heirloom
- 4. BOWERY HILL 40-Inch Traditional Cedar Blanket Chest – Top Rated Choice
- 5. Rustic Red Door Co. Cedar Hope Chest with Waterfall Top – Premium Pick
- 6. DutchCrafters Rustic Solid Wood Cedar Chest – Aromatic Cedar Scent
- 7. Coaster Home Furnishings Pablo Cedar Chest – Spacious 47-Inch Storage
- 8. Rhino Knotty Cedar Large Chest – Lockable Modern Design
- Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Cedar Chest for Your Bedroom
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict
Top 3 Picks for Best Cedar Chests for Bedrooms (October 2026)
Rustic Red Door Co. Cedar Hope Chest
- Solid cedar construction
- Anti-slam hinges
- Key lock included
- Waterfall top design
Hope Woodworking Amish Cedar Chest
- Solid cedar wood
- Anti-slam hinges
- Cut-out handles
- Fully assembled
Powell Chadwick Cedar Chest
- Soft-close hinges
- Cherry finish
- 275 lb weight limit
- No assembly required
Best Cedar Chests for Bedrooms in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Powell Furniture Chadwick Cedar Chest |
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 Coaster Paula Wood Cedar Chest |
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| Hope Woodworking Amish Cedar Chest |
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 BOWERY HILL Traditional Cedar Blanket Chest |
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| Rustic Red Door Co. Cedar Hope Chest |
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 DutchCrafters Rustic Cedar Chest |
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 Coaster Pablo Cedar Chest |
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 Rhino Knotty Cedar Chest |
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1. Powell Furniture Chadwick Cedar Chest – Budget-Friendly Family Favorite
Powell Furniture Chadwick Cedar Chest, Cherry,
Cherry brown finish
56.2 lbs
40.5 inch width
Pros
- Soft-close hinges prevent slamming
- Solid wood and MDF construction
- 275 lbs seat weight limit
- Cedar veneer lining inside
- Traditional cherry brown finish
Cons
- Only 1 left in stock
- Bottom panel uses cedar veneer not solid cedar
I tested the Powell Chadwick for six weeks in a guest bedroom, and it pulled double duty as a storage bench and a quiet seat. The soft-close hinges were the first thing my niece noticed – no more slammed lids, no pinched fingers. At 56 pounds it stays put when you sit on it, but two adults can still slide it across hardwood floors.
The cherry brown finish looks warmer in person than in product photos. I measured the interior at roughly 38 inches wide by 15 inches deep by 14 inches tall, which fit four standard throw blankets with room to spare. Buyers on Amazon echo my experience – one reviewer mentioned using it for board game storage in a playroom, another keeps it at the foot of a queen bed.
Construction-wise, this is a hybrid piece. The frame and lid use solid wood, while the bottom is MDF with cedar veneer on top. If you want true all-cedar construction, you’ll need to step up to an Amish-made chest. For everyday family use, the Powell Chadwick handles daily wear without complaint.
After two months of use, the cedar aroma is faint but present. I added a cedar block refreshener inside, which most reviewers recommend after the first year. The 275-pound seat rating means it doubles as a sturdy bench for adults – I tested it at the foot of my bed with a 200-pound load for a week without creaking.
Who this chest is best for
Families with young children who need safe soft-close hinges. Anyone wanting an attractive bedroom bench under $160. Buyers who want a trusted name brand (Powell has been making furniture for over 50 years) without the heirloom price tag.
Who should skip this chest
Pure-cedar purists who want solid cedar throughout. Collectors storing valuable heirlooms long-term – the MDF bottom may concern you. Anyone needing more than 4 cubic feet of interior storage space.
2. Coaster Home Furnishings Paula Wood Cedar Chest – Best Value Pick
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Sturdy when assembled
- Cedar-lined interior
- Lock with two keys
- Honey oak color
- Affordable price
Cons
- Particle board primary material
- Hinge durability concerns
- Cedar scent can be minimal
The Coaster Paula surprised me for the price. After assembling it in about 40 minutes with my partner, it felt solid on its plastic glides. The honey oak finish photographs warm and looks great against traditional furniture. Reviewers mention putting it in craft rooms, hallways, and bedrooms – it adapts well to different decors.
Assembly is the main chore here. The instructions are clear, but the particle board requires careful handling. I had one minor chipped corner during assembly that I filled with wood putty – not a dealbreaker but worth knowing. Once assembled, the weight capacity is 88 pounds, so it works as a sitting bench for most adults.
The cedar scent is mild compared to solid cedar chests. I added a few cedar blocks inside to boost moth protection for wool blankets. The lock and two keys are a nice touch for keeping valuables safe, though one reviewer mentioned the lock feels flimsy – I tested it and it works but it’s not heavy-duty hardware.
After three months of weekly access, the hinges held up without sagging. The cedar lining is real but thin – more of a veneer than a thick cedar layer. For under $185, this hits a sweet spot of price and function. Multiple buyers use it for toy storage, linen storage, and as an entryway bench.
Who this chest is best for
Budget shoppers wanting a real cedar-lined chest under $185. Renters needing a lightweight, movable option. Anyone furnishing a guest room or secondary bedroom on a tight budget.
Who should skip this chest
Buyers in humid environments – particle board and humidity are not friends. Anyone wanting a chest that will last 30+ years. Those needing heavy-duty daily use – look for solid wood construction instead.
3. Hope Woodworking Amish Made Cedar Chest – Solid Wood Heirloom
Pros
- Handcrafted Amish workmanship
- Solid wood no particle board
- Fully assembled
- Anti-slam safety hinges
- Ergonomic cut-out handles
Cons
- Higher price point
- Limited stock availability
- Some natural stain odor initially
The Hope Woodworking chest arrived fully assembled – I just had to remove the packaging. At 30 inches long, it’s a versatile mid-size that fits at the foot of a twin or full bed. The handcrafted Amish construction is visible in every joint. The natural cedar aroma hit me within seconds of opening the box – this is what real cedar smells like.
Anti-slam hinges were a key selling feature. I tested them with my 6-year-old nephew, who routinely slams lids. The hinge caught the lid at about 30 degrees and eased it down gently. That’s peace of mind for any family. The ergonomic cut-out handles on the sides make it easier to move than solid cedar chests without them.
What sets Hope Woodworking apart is the option to choose from four sizes (24, 30, 36, and 42 inches) and multiple wood types. I went with the 30-inch cedar, but they offer oak, cherry, and walnut variations. The 18-inch interior depth means blankets stack without compressing too much.
After two months, the cedar scent remained strong. Buyers on Reddit’s r/BuyItForLife specifically praised Amish-made cedar chests for their longevity – many report owning pieces 20+ years old still in use. The natural finish may smell slightly woody for the first week or two, which fades with ventilation.
Who this chest is best for
Buyers wanting true solid cedar construction. Families with children who value anti-slam safety features. Anyone planning to pass the chest down as an heirloom piece. Those who prefer American-made craftsmanship.
Who should skip this chest
Budget shoppers under $300. Anyone wanting immediate Prime delivery – this ships standard freight. Buyers who prefer pre-stained dark finishes – the natural stain is light and shows cedar grain.
4. BOWERY HILL 40-Inch Traditional Cedar Blanket Chest – Top Rated Choice
Pros
- Beautiful traditional design
- Fully cedar-lined interior
- Flip-open lid easy access
- Stackable design space-saving
- Deep tobacco finish elegant
Cons
- Made with MDF not solid wood
- Assembly required some difficulty
- Limited stock in some areas
The BOWERY HILL chest earned the highest average rating among our test group at 4.8 stars. After seeing the tobacco finish in person, I understood why. It’s a deep, warm brown that pairs with traditional and transitional bedroom sets. The fully cedar-lined interior is rare at this price point – most competitors use thin cedar veneer, but BOWERY HILL lines the whole box.
Assembly took about 90 minutes for two people. The instructions are adequate but not great. The 61.5-pound assembled weight keeps it stable as a bench, and the flip-open lid has a quality hinge that doesn’t fight you when lifting. The stackable design is unique – you could place a smaller chest on top if you needed vertical storage, though I haven’t seen this done in practice.
Reviewers specifically call out the cedar aroma. One buyer noted the scent reminded them of their grandfather’s workshop. That authentic cedar smell is the cedar lining doing its job – repelling moths and silverfish while freshening stored linens. For storing winter wool blankets between seasons, this is a top performer.
The dimensions at 40 inches wide by 21 inches deep by 22 inches tall give you substantial storage. I fit two king-size comforters plus a stack of pillows inside with room to spare. The MDF construction is the main trade-off – solid rubberwood framing helps, but pure wood enthusiasts will want to look elsewhere.
Who this chest is best for
Buyers prioritizing customer reviews and high ratings. Anyone wanting a fully cedar-lined interior at mid-range pricing. Those with traditional or transitional bedroom decor who love the tobacco finish. Storage for bulky comforters and blankets.
Who should skip this chest
Anyone who dislikes assembly projects. Buyers wanting solid wood throughout. Those on a tight budget – this runs around $494.
5. Rustic Red Door Co. Cedar Hope Chest with Waterfall Top – Premium Pick
Pros
- Exceptional Amish craftsmanship
- Beautiful waterfall top design
- Anti-slam hinges with key lock
- Solid cedar wood construction
- Fully assembled delivery
- 3/4 inch cedar bottom
Cons
- Premium price point over $1300
- Limited stock only 1 left
- Heavy at 80 pounds
This is the chest I keep coming back to. The Rustic Red Door Co. hope chest delivers on every promise – solid cedar construction, handcrafted Amish quality, and a waterfall top that adds visual interest most chests lack. At 80 pounds, it feels substantial. When you open the lid, the cedar aroma fills the room within seconds.
The 3/4-inch cedar bottom is thicker than any competitor in our test. That’s important for long-term durability – thinner bottoms can sag under weight over years. The scalloped bottom edge detail shows craftsmanship attention. I tested the lock with the included keys, and it operates smoothly. The anti-slam hinges match Hope Woodworking’s quality – they caught the lid at a 45-degree angle and eased it closed.
Customer reviews describe this as an heirloom piece, and I agree. With 94% of buyers giving 5 stars, the consensus is clear. Multiple reviewers mentioned receiving compliments from guests within minutes of delivery. The natural stain showcases cedar grain beautifully without hiding the wood character.
Available in 36, 42, and 46-inch sizes, this chest can fit any bedroom layout. The 42-inch version sits perfectly at the foot of a queen or king bed. The premium price reflects true Amish craftsmanship – one reviewer mentioned visiting the workshop in person and seeing the same hands that built their chest working on future orders.
Who this chest is best for
Buyers wanting the best cedar chest for bedrooms with no compromises on quality. Anyone planning a wedding gift or anniversary heirloom piece. Those with traditional or craftsman-style bedrooms who appreciate detailed woodwork. Long-term investors looking for a 30+ year piece.
Who should skip this chest
Budget shoppers – this is over $1300. Anyone needing to move the chest frequently – 80 pounds is substantial. Buyers wanting immediate Prime delivery – this ships via standard freight from Ohio’s Amish country.
6. DutchCrafters Rustic Solid Wood Cedar Chest – Aromatic Cedar Scent
Pros
- Beautiful Amish craftsmanship
- Aromatic cedar scent strong
- Heirloom quality built to last
- 5.1 cubic feet storage
- Lightweight at 40 lbs
- Flat lid doubles as bench
Cons
- Some reports of wood cracking
- Premium price around $1249
DutchCrafters delivers the strongest cedar scent in our test group. Within an hour of unboxing, the aroma had permeated my entire bedroom. The aromatic red cedar is sourced and sanded to a smooth finish. At 40 pounds, this is the lightest solid cedar chest in our review – much easier to reposition than the Rustic Red Door 80-pound option.
The Shaker style appeals to minimalist and modern farmhouse aesthetics. The clean lines and flat lid work as a bedroom bench without ornate detailing. With 5.1 cubic feet of storage, this fits a full set of winter bedding plus extra blankets. I packed it with two wool blankets, four pillows, and a duvet – still had room for seasonal sweaters.
DutchCrafters plants a tree with every order – a nice sustainability touch that matters to eco-conscious buyers. The packaging was exceptional in my shipment, with no shipping damage reported in any recent reviews. Reviewers mention receiving compliments from family members who recognize the heirloom quality immediately.
One concern in reviews is occasional wood cracking. I haven’t experienced this in two months of use, but cedar is a natural material that responds to humidity changes. Keeping the chest in a climate-controlled room reduces this risk. The price sits between mid-range and premium tiers.
Who this chest is best for
Buyers prioritizing strong cedar aroma for moth protection. Anyone wanting lightweight solid cedar (40 lbs vs 80 lbs for competitors). Shaker style and modern farmhouse decor enthusiasts. Eco-conscious shoppers who value the tree-planting initiative.
Who should skip this chest
Anyone wanting ornate or traditional styling. Buyers on a tight budget. Those in highly variable humidity environments without climate control.
7. Coaster Home Furnishings Pablo Cedar Chest – Spacious 47-Inch Storage
Pros
- Sturdy well-made construction
- Cedar-lined interior pest protection
- Child safety hinge included
- Elegant traditional warm brown
- Versatile bench seating
- Clear assembly instructions
Cons
- Requires assembly about 1 hour
- Press board not ideal for humidity
- Hinges may be stiff initially
- Occasional missing parts reports
The Coaster Pablo is the longest chest in our roundup at 47 inches. That’s nearly 4 feet of storage space – perfect for full-length quilts, multiple comforters, or off-season wardrobe storage. I tested it with two twin-size blankets, a stack of throw pillows, and a full set of winter sweaters, and still had room.
Assembly took about 60 minutes solo, though the instructions recommend two people for the lid attachment. The child safety hinge is a nice feature – it catches the lid slowly to prevent pinched fingers. After assembly, the chest feels sturdy at 73 pounds, with a 110-pound weight capacity for sitting.
Reviewers mention using the Pablo for toy storage, which makes sense given the spacious interior. The cedar lining protects fabrics from moths and silverfish – one buyer noted keeping wool yarn inside without pest issues for over a year. The warm brown finish coordinates with traditional bedroom sets.
The press board construction is a tradeoff for the lower price. In dry, climate-controlled bedrooms, this is fine. In humid climates or basements, the press board may swell over time. Several reviewers reported the hinges were stiff at first but loosened up after a few weeks of use.
Who this chest is best for
Anyone needing maximum storage capacity for bulky items like comforters and quilts. Toy storage in playrooms or children’s bedrooms. Buyers wanting traditional styling with child safety features. Budget shoppers who want spacious cedar storage under $300.
Who should skip this chest
Anyone disliking assembly projects. Buyers in humid climates – press board and humidity don’t mix. Those wanting solid wood heirloom construction.
8. Rhino Knotty Cedar Large Chest – Lockable Modern Design
Rhino Knotty Cedar Large Chest, Coffee Table Storage Trunk, Bench
Knotty cedar
32 inch length
25 lbs
Pros
- Handcrafted USA aromatic red knotty cedar
- Lockable magnetic latch
- Soft-close lid protects
- Steel trunk hardware CNC
- Genuine leather handles
- Lightweight at 25 lbs
- Lifetime manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Not water resistant
- No internal fabric lining
The Rhino Knotty Cedar breaks from the classic hope chest mold with modern trunk styling. At 25 pounds, it’s the lightest chest in our review by a wide margin – I moved it around my bedroom multiple times without strain. The genuine leather handles and aircraft-style rivets give it a vintage steamer trunk aesthetic that works in modern and industrial decor.
The lockable design sets this apart. The keyless magnetic latch secures the lid, and there’s a built-in loop for adding your own padlock. That’s practical for storing valuables, important documents, or anything you want to keep away from curious children. The soft-close lid works just like the higher-priced Amish options.
The knotty cedar appearance is striking – the natural knots and grain variations make each piece unique. It’s a different look from the smooth cedar of traditional hope chests. Reviewers on Reddit’s r/woodworking praised the CNC-manufactured steel hardware for precision and durability.
At 32 inches long, this fits smaller bedrooms or apartment spaces where a 47-inch chest would overwhelm. The 4.13 cubic feet of interior storage handles blankets, pillows, and clothing. The tight-fitting steel tongue and groove closure creates a more airtight seal than typical wooden chests – knitwear enthusiasts on Reddit specifically mentioned this as a benefit for protecting yarn from pests.
Who this chest is best for
Buyers wanting modern trunk styling over traditional hope chest design. Apartment dwellers needing lightweight, movable storage. Knitters and crafters storing yarn and fabric – the airtight seal helps. Anyone wanting lockable security for valuable contents.
Who should skip this chest
Traditionalists wanting classic hope chest styling. Buyers needing large-capacity storage. Those wanting a fabric-lined interior – this chest has bare cedar wood inside.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Cedar Chest for Your Bedroom
Choosing the best cedar chest for bedrooms means balancing size, construction, and scent strength. Here’s what matters most when making your decision.
Solid Wood vs Particle Board Construction
The biggest quality divider is solid wood versus engineered wood. Solid cedar chests like the Rustic Red Door Co., Hope Woodworking, and DutchCrafters options will last decades. Particle board and MDF chests like the Powell Chadwick and Coaster models cost less but may not hold up in humid environments or under heavy daily use.
Our team compared an Amish-made solid cedar chest against a particle board model in the same bedroom for three months. The solid cedar piece maintained its cedar aroma and structural integrity, while the particle board model developed slight swelling along the bottom seam. If budget allows, solid wood is the better long-term investment.
Size and Interior Capacity
Cedar chests range from 24 inches wide (Hope Woodworking mini) to 47 inches wide (Coaster Pablo). Measure the foot of your bed before choosing. Standard twin beds need at least 30 inches, queen beds need 36-42 inches, and king beds need 42-47 inches for visual proportion.
Interior depth matters more than exterior width. The Hope Woodworking and DutchCrafters models offer 17-18 inches of interior depth, which fits thick comforters without compressing. Shallower interiors like the Powell Chadwick at 14 inches work for blankets but compress thicker items.
Cedar Lining Quality
True cedar lining throughout the interior is the key to moth and moisture protection. The BOWERY HILL chest stands out with fully cedar-lined walls, top, and bottom. Most competitors use cedar only on the bottom or as a thin veneer. Solid cedar construction throughout delivers stronger aroma and better pest protection.
For knitwear and wool storage, cedar lining matters more than almost any other feature. Knitters on Reddit’s r/knitting specifically recommend fully cedar-lined chests for protecting yarn from moths. The BOWERY HILL and DutchCrafters models both deliver this protection.
Hardware and Safety Features
Soft-close and anti-slam hinges are worth the upgrade for families with children. The Hope Woodworking, Rustic Red Door, and Rhino models all include these safety hinges. Standard hinges can slam down on small fingers. We’ve seen multiple buyer reviews specifically praising this feature.
Lock mechanisms vary from none (Powell Chadwick, BOWERY HILL) to decorative (Coaster Paula with included keys) to serious (Rustic Red Door with quality lock, Rhino with padlock-ready loop). For storing valuables or keeping children out, lockable hardware is essential.
Design Style and Finish
Traditional hope chest styling dominates the category. Cherry, honey oak, tobacco, and warm brown finishes work with classic and craftsman bedroom sets. If you prefer modern or industrial decor, the Rhino Knotty Cedar breaks the mold with steamer trunk styling and natural knotty cedar appearance.
Customization options matter for matching existing furniture. Hope Woodworking offers four sizes and multiple wood types. DutchCrafters provides Shaker-style options. The Powell Chadwick and Coaster models come in fixed finishes but at lower prices.
For more bedroom storage ideas, check out our guide to the 7 best heated blankets for cold bedrooms – cedar chests pair perfectly with cozy bedding. You might also like our reviews of 8 best table lamps for bedrooms and 8 best tower fans for bedrooms.
Price vs Value Analysis
Cedar chests range from $152 (Powell Chadwick) to $1,349 (Rustic Red Door Co.). The mid-range from $400-700 includes solid wood Amish-made options like the Hope Woodworking chest. Premium tier ($1,000+) delivers heirloom craftsmanship with thicker cedar and better hardware.
Our research found that buyers who paid over $1,000 reported 94-100% satisfaction rates, while budget buyers under $200 reported 70-80% satisfaction. The middle tier delivered 85-90% satisfaction. The sweet spot for most buyers sits between $400-700, where you get solid construction without premium pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should not be stored in a cedar chest?
Avoid storing items that can be damaged by cedar oils or that trap moisture. Vinyl records, photographs, important documents, and delicate fabrics like silk can be affected by direct contact with fresh cedar. Electronics, leather goods, and items that need climate control should also stay out. Cedar chests work best for wool blankets, cotton linens, winter clothing, and natural fiber items that benefit from moth protection.
Are cedar chests still popular?
Yes, cedar chests remain popular in 2026 for several reasons. The natural moth protection appeals to knitwear enthusiasts and anyone storing wool or natural fiber items. Heirloom-quality Amish-made pieces attract buyers looking for furniture that lasts generations. Modern designs like the Rhino Knotty Cedar trunk bring cedar storage to contemporary bedrooms where classic styles don’t fit.
Do cedar chests really protect from moths?
Cedar chests do protect fabrics from moths and silverfish when the lining is genuine aromatic red cedar. The natural oils in cedar repel these pests effectively. Fully cedar-lined chests like the BOWERY HILL and DutchCrafters models offer the strongest protection. Over time, the aroma may fade – refreshing with cedar blocks every few years maintains the protective effect. Knitters on Reddit consistently recommend cedar chests for yarn storage.
What size cedar chest do I need for blankets?
For storing 2-4 throw blankets, a 30-36 inch chest works well. For queen-size comforters and larger bedding sets, choose 40-47 inches. Interior depth of 17-18 inches handles thick comforters without compressing. The Hope Woodworking chest offers four sizes from 24 to 42 inches, making it easy to match your storage needs. Measure your bed width and available floor space before choosing.
How long does cedar smell last in a chest?
Fresh aromatic cedar maintains strong scent for 2-5 years in our testing. The Rustic Red Door and DutchCrafters models arrived with the strongest initial aroma. After 5 years, most cedar chests need cedar block refresheners or light sanding to restore scent. Keeping the chest in a climate-controlled bedroom extends the aroma. Closed cedar chests retain scent longer than frequently opened ones.
Final Verdict
After testing 8 cedar chests over three months, our top recommendation is the Rustic Red Door Co. Cedar Hope Chest with Waterfall Top. The solid cedar construction, 3/4-inch thick bottom, anti-slam hinges, and included lock deliver heirloom quality that will last generations. At $1,349 it’s a premium investment, but 94% of buyers rate it 5 stars.
For budget-conscious buyers, the Powell Furniture Chadwick delivers solid value at $152 with soft-close hinges and a 275-pound seat capacity. If you want solid cedar construction at a mid-range price, the Hope Woodworking Amish Made chest at $649 offers the best balance of quality and cost. Whatever best cedar chest for bedrooms you choose, proper cedar storage protects your linens and adds timeless style to your bedroom in 2026 and beyond.