How to Preserve Unfinished Cedar Wood Color

Spray the wood with a pressure sprayer to thoroughly soak the wood and help bring out the natural grain. Scrub the wood with a wood furniture detergent and a stiff bristle brush if desired. Let the furniture dry for five days before staining or sealing. When dry, sand all surfaces with fine grit sandpaper. Remove any dust or loose wood fibers. Lay down drop cloth to protect the area while staining.

Stain or seal the wood when the ambient temperature is between 50 to 85 degrees and outdoor humidity is below 80 percent. If staining outside, make sure the wood is protected from the elements for the duration of staining or sealing process. If working indoors, be sure there is adequate ventilation.

Remove drawers from end tables, dressers or desks, and take off hardware such as knobs, handles, or hinges from items with doors. Apply a penetrating sealant with a brush or spray, as directed by the product's instructions. When thoroughly dry, apply a second coat. A sealer blocks the wood's pores and prevents the grain from rising, locking in natural preservatives and resisting decay from moisture and humidity. If staining the cedar, go to Step 4.

Brush on a single coat of semi-transparent stain with a UV inhibitor. This brings out the natural luster of the wood and prevents harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun from breaking down the wood fiber. Begin at the bottom of the piece and work your way up the sides and finish with the top. A second coat of stain after the first is dry enhances the color's richness and increases the longevity of the finish.

Brush on a coat of primer and when the piece is completely dry, finish with another light sanding using fine grit sandpaper.