Dust your cedar chest on a regular basis, using either a soft cloth or soft bristled vacuum brush. If you choose to wax a newer chest, periodically clean it with oil soap cleaner. This will eliminate the possibility of wax build-up. When applying the wax, use a motion that goes with the wood grain.
Deep scratches and stains will typically require refinishing, but it is sometimes possible cover minor scratches and even cracks with paste wax.
Avoid using waxes and spray polish products, which contain silicone. Silicone buildup makes it more difficult to do future refinishing work on the chest. Never place a vase of flowers or a glass of water directly on a cedar surface.