Should we treat / oil the cedar outdoor shower kits?

For your cedar outdoor shower kits, we recommend using Thompsons Water Seal or Australian Timber Oil.

Using a water sealer will also protect it from the elements, whereas the Australian Timber Oil will mostly just preserve the color of the kit.

Many of our customers just leave the kit as it is too naturally aged, and they can get 10 – 20 years of use out of it.

When installing you want to consider the placement carefully so you have it somewhere with lots of sun and a breeze so it can dry out properly between uses.

See below for Pros vs Cons
See our guidance on Treating Cedar here

Cedar as Wood for Outdoor Showers

Naturally durable and rot-resistant

Contains oils that repel insects and moisture

Common uses: siding, decks, fences, outdoor furniture

Option 1:
Treat the Cedar

Pros

Preserves original warm reddish-brown color

Adds extra protection against moisture and UV damage

Reduces cracking, warping, and splitting

Extends lifespan in harsh climates

Can enhance grain appearance (with stains/sealers)

Cons

Requires ongoing maintenance (reapply every 2–3 years)

Best Treatment Types

Transparent or semi-transparent stains, Clear water repellents, UV-blocking sealers

Option 2:
Let It Weather Naturally

Pros

Develops a silver-gray patina over time

Very low maintenance

No ongoing cost after installation

Popular for rustic or coastal aesthetics

Cons

Color change can be uneven at first

Less protection from moisture and sun

Greater risk of surface checking (small cracks)

May shorten lifespan in wet/humid environments

Key Factors to Consider

Climate

Wet/humid (like coastal areas): treatment recommended
Dry climates: natural weathering works better

Appearance Preference

If you want rich wood tones … treat the wood
Like gray, aged look? Let it weather

Hybrid Approach?

Let cedar weather for 3–12 months
Then apply a light stain or sealer
Balances natural look with added protection