Cedar tray hydration

[Footbag]

I'm with these guys, but instead of a sponge, I use a cotton rag that is very very slightly damp. If you are saturating the wood, you're going too far.

I don't think storing the trays in 98% humidity 90 degrees (bathroom)would be the best idea. Not that you'll really experience any problems, but it could potentially swell the joints. Better to do it slowly.

Originally Posted by Hardcz

Works great at hotels with super heated water... just turn the shower on high, shut the door, go to dinner, come back, plenty steamy.

Dan, any tips on how to make my way through the fog and actually find the damn shirt?

Originally Posted by Footbag

I don't think storing the trays in 98% humidity 90 degrees (bathroom)would be the best idea.

But Bob, I hear that's a great environment for Gurkhas.

All the cedar I use is stored in a downstairs utility room with a RH of around 60%.
I keep the wood in there at all times until it is time to cut it. I do this for several reasons.
A) I want it to be as close to its intended moisture content so it doesn’t shrink or swell too much.
B) Hopefully this lessens the seasoning time needed.

Although the trays are not wrapped in an airtight wrapper, they are wrapped up pretty good. So they should be pretty close to the moisture content we are looking for. I would suggest you only wipe them down with damp rag or sponge of distilled water. Your trays are slotted and have no tops so there will be plenty of air flow around the wood. Place them in the cooler and if needed add some extra moisture to be absorbed by the trays and beads.

Just watch it over the first week and remove the added moisture when things stabilize.

Chas