LINEN CLOSET

It is so satisfying to complete one organizing project and I bet it’ll give you some incentive to get the rest of the house done as well.  Your linen closet is a great place to start – its very manageable and it looks fabulous when you open it up.  It’ll be a pleasure to make the beds – well almost…!  

Inventory - Empty your closet and separate the items into different categories, such as bed linens, blankets, duvets, table linens, pillows, etc….

Move unwanted items out - Can some items be stored elsewhere?  Put them in the most convenient spot – where you use them the most.

Clean – Clean the shelves and vacuum the floor so that you are starting with a fresh slate.  You may want to put shelf liners on the shelves (just be sure any scented ones will not leave any oil stains on fabrics).  Acid free paper is best for vintage linens.

Organize items -  Decide what should be stored on each shelf.   Your most used items should be stored where they are easily reached and items that aren’t used often can be stored on the higher shelves.  I keep seasonal items up high or down low as they are only changed every six or so months. 

Label – Labelling the shelf edges will help make sure that items go back where they are supposed to and will help keep your family organized. 

How many do you really need? – Two sets of sheets for each bed are ideal, one on the bed and one extra when needed.  One mattress cover and one set of pillow covers for each bed are usually sufficient – if you change these often then you’ll need two sets per bed.  I keep the sheet sets together so I can pick up everything I need when changing the bed.  One tip I have heard is to put the flat, fitted sheet and one pillowcase into the other pillowcase to keep it all together.

Dividers – You can even further organize your shelves by using shelf dividers.  These are available at any organizational store.

Guest Rooms – I don’t have a guest room at the moment, but if I did I would keep the guest sheets and towels on a shelf in that room’s closet so that they are fresh and clean and ready to use when guests arrive. 

BATH LINENS

Sort - Sort through your towels and any old, frayed ones can be used as rags. 

Organize – If you use your towels in sets then store then in size order with the largest on the bottom.  If not, then keep the hand towels that you use in each of the bathrooms where you use them.  Face cloths can be placed in a small basket under your sink or on a shelf near where you use them.  The larger size bath towels can then be placed in the bathroom or in the linen closet, whichever you prefer.  I try to have two to three complete sets of towels for each person in the home as well as two guest sets. 

TABLE LINENS

Napkin storage – A low basket is ideal to store napkins so that they are all in one place and are easily transported to the dining room or kitchen when needed.

Tablecloths/runners – It is best to hang these from a padded hanger to avoid wrinkles, if you have the space.  Alternatively, if you fold them, you can place tissue paper between the folds to avoid causing more wrinkles.

Table protectors – I keep these on the cardboard roll that they are purchased on and store them under my living room sofa – that way they are near the dining room when needed.  You could also stand them up in the corner of the linen closet.

Miscellaneous – Any cleaning products, ironing supplies or toiletries can be placed in a basket to keep them together and tidy.

Well, now you have a plan, let me know how you make out.  I’d love to see pictures of your newly organized linen closet.

 

 

 

I believe that every space can be comfortable, warm, elegant and beautiful. I would love to help you achieve your beautiful space! Email me at lisa@lisagouletdesign.com or if in the Ottawa area call me at 613-762-0818.

Lisa