An accessible and aesthetically-pleasing linen closet is achievable thanks to these organization tips.
Linen closet organization is essential since it's commonly used as a catchall for bath essentials, towels, bedsheets, and much more. With such variety in the items being stored, it's easy for this space to become overwhelmed and cluttered. Keep your linen closet tidy by incorporating clever, stylish storage solutions. We'll show you how to use household items and dollar-store finds to improve linen closet organization.
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Assign a Task to Each Shelf
One of the first things to do for linen closet organization is to decide what each shelf should hold. Because the shelves are usually narrow or shallow, each one should house one category, or two if the category is small. For example, bulky pillows, sheets (like these Better Homes & Gardens 400 Thread Count Hygro Cotton Bed Sheet Set, $55, Walmart), and towels should be given a separate shelf. Tiny toiletries can be stored next to a few extra rolls of toilet paper. The most reached-for or replenished items are best stored at eye level; the rest can go high or low.
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Utilize Bed-in-a-Bag Linen Closet Organization
Tired of losing a single pillowcase or the matching top sheet to a set? Get into the habit of creating a “bed in a bag”. When a full set of sheets comes out of the laundry, fold everything except for one pillowcase into a rectangle and stack the sheets and other pillowcases on top of one another. Then, slide it all into the pillowcase you left out so that the whole set is together. This can lay flat on a shelf or in a basket with a label.
Sort Using Baskets
Laying everything flat on its assigned shelf is a recipe for clutter. Instead, try stacking sheet sets in a basket to avoid toppling piles. Rolling towels is just as easy as folding them and takes up less space; plus, it's an easy (and free) way to give your bathroom a spa look. Use smaller bins to contain items such as skin care or first-aid supplies.
Related: How to Fold Towels 4 Different Ways for a Luxurious Bathroom
Maximize Shelf Space
Use stacking boxes, bins, or baskets for linen closet organization of small items such as hand towels or hair accessories. These containers maximize vertical space on a linen closet shelf and are easily portable. You can also fill these with everyday toiletries visitors might forget to bring with them on their stay with you. Clearly label each container so guests will feel right at home with everything they need.
Use Clear Storage Containers
Clear containers are an excellent linen closet organization tool, especially for bath essentials such as soaps, cotton balls, and clothespins. They not only look pretty, but they also let you see at a glance what's in them and when you need to restock supplies. Fill a few clear jars with the things you use the most. Opt for a lid to keep out dust or keep it open if you want to reach in easily.
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Line Up a Lazy Susan (or Two)
Often found in pantries or under sinks, a lazy Susan can also be the perfect addition to your linen closet. The best items to store on these round organizers are, you guessed it, round. This ensures you’re maximizing their storage potential. Use one or two in the linen closet to store sunscreen, bottles of hairspray and dry shampoo, and even toilet paper. Lazy Susans also prevent items from getting lost or having to make a mess to grab something in the back.
Lay Down a Tray
Another good way to corral lots of little bath items is to arrange them on a tray or in a shallow basket. If you're using one to hold anything liquid, look for a waterproof and wipeable tray. For things like toilet paper or tissues, reuse whatever you find around the house, including galvanized metal, bamboo, or wicker trays. This linen closet organization idea is much more pleasing than the plastic packaging that bath supplies typically come in.
Install Pull-Out Drawers
If your linen closet has deep shelves (about two feet or more), consider installing pull-out drawers as a well-worth-it solution. You can have them installed by a professional or save some money by DIYing this storage project. Now, instead of struggling to reach towards the back or finding large enough baskets (like this Better Homes & Gardens Adult Half-Size Fabric Cube Storage Bin, $6, Walmart) to fill expansive shelves, you can easily slide items out to you.
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Utilize Baskets for Laundry
Have significant space at the bottom of the linen closet? Slide in a couple of hampers (try a Better Homes & Garden Heavy-Gauge Wire Laundry Basket, $25, Walmart), whether it’s for your clothes or linens. Use two separate laundry baskets or a solo one with separation to simplify sorting whites and darks or sheets and towels. Find bins or baskets that fit your design style and clearly label them for your convenience.
Declutter Regularly
Linen closet organization starts with decluttering. At least once per season, go through everything in your linen closet to keep it up to date. Toss all expired beauty products and medications and donate linens you no longer need to your local animal shelter. Keeping on top of this goes a long way in maintaining your organized space.
Tuck Things Up Top
Take advantage of forgotten space at the top of your linen closet by placing seasonal items or linens up high. You might want to consider removing a shelf to make room for bulky baskets. Use ones with handles so you can easily pull them down when the seasons change.
Have Fun with a Fish Bowl
Repurposing containers is an eco-friendly way to get organized. You can use a fish bowl (cleaned and sterilized, please!) to store bath salts. Since the wide mouth makes it easy to reach in, add a bamboo scoop for stress-free bath time. If you like the beachy aesthetic, fish bowls are just a few dollars at a pet store, are functional, and look pretty on a shelf.
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