Linen Closets 

AUGUST 1, 2021

Linen Closets

Is your linen closet out of control and you need a better system? We have 13 linen closet organization ideas to take the stress out of keeping your closet clean!

13 seriously smart linen closet organization ideas

At this rate, your linen closet is probably overflowing with years - maybe even decades- worth of accumulated towels, bedding, and sheets.

~ If you’ve been accumulating bedding and towels for years without getting rid of any old sets, chances are you have more than you need. Two or three sets of sheets per bed, and two sets of towels per person (more if you have avid swimmers in the house), plus an extra set for guests, are usually enough.

~ Choose the best and donate the rest — and if your old linens are in very bad shape, drop them in a textile recycling bin or donate them to your local dog shelter rather than tossing them in
the trash.

~ Keep piles of towels and sheets from toppling over by using a shelf divider and tucking each set of sheets inside a pillowcase. Store small items (like extra toiletries) inside labeled cloth-covered storage boxes.

Instead of accepting the clutter and chaos, follow these tips for a cleaner closet!

Towel and rag organizer

Keep your towels and rags nice and organized before and after you wash them. A towel holder keeps them in place.

Roll towels

Not only will this method save space in your linen closet, but we think it looks nicer than traditional folding, too.

Hang your iron

Hang your board, iron, and spray bottle in the door so the next time you’re running 10 minutes late and need to press your dress, you can find everything you need to get rid of those wrinkles.

Stash sheets in pillowcases

This nifty hack makes it easier to keep all the pieces of your bedding set together - substantially lowering your chances of losing a rogue pillowcase.

Pair similar items

Pairing items is one of the best linen closet organization ideas. Store your everyday towels and sheets on the center shelf. Everything else - mismatched pillowcases, bleach-stained towels, and your daughter's hot pink shams - can be tucked in baskets on higher or lower shelves.

Wire bins, especially ones with liners, organize and conceal cleaning supplies, toilet paper, and the like. Label each basket to ensure that each container's contents are perfectly clear.

Towels can usually just be stacked on shelves - no need to waste buying a bin on these.

Extra pillows or bedding can be stored easily in round metal bins!

Medium metal baskets are great for envelope folding bedding sets and hand towels. They are also great for toilet paper.

Small metal baskets are great for washcloths.

Maximize shelf space

The cost of baskets and bins quickly adds up. For a more affordable option, install adjustable shelf dividers to keep your sheets, towels, and other linens separate.

Label everything

Break up shelves into sections and label accordingly. Hold off on sticking bookplates and labels directly on shelves or bins until you’ve figured out what systems work best for you. (We always use sticky notes!) Then stick away.

Use empty door space

Hang an over-the-door towel hanger on the inside of your closet door to make it easy for everyone to find their towel next time they shower

You can also use Closet Maid’s adjustable 8-tier door rack which is perfect for any stray toiletries or cleaning products.

Keep products at arms length

If you're short on storage space, it’s likely that your linen closet is also home to cleaning products and extra toiletries. Divide everything into these grab and go plastic bins for easy access.

An assortment of wire baskets and round trays will move from closet to bathroom or kitchen with grace, while glass jars present clothespins and scrubbing brushes in a luxurious way.

Make it consistent

Choose a color scheme to give the closet a more cohesive, less cluttered look. For peak organization, give each type of linen - sheets, bath towels, and spare bedding - a specific color so that you can quickly find what you are looking for.

More importantly - wait to buy baskets and bins until you know what you need! I know it is hard to do this (believe me - buying bins is one of the most fun parts of my job!) but there is nothing worse than making a trip to buy bins just to turn around and take them back. Make piles or use containers you have to estimate sizing. Then, you are one trip from The Container Store away from your dream closet!

Need more linen closet organization ideas or want personal guidance? Contact us so we can help you!