How to Declutter, Organize and Maintain a Linen Closet

This article will show you how to declutter, organize and maintain a linen closet allowing you to find things easily.If the project is too overwhelming, work on one shelf at a time. Or set a timer and work for 15 to 20 minutes at a time and come back to it later.

Step 1:  The first thing you need to do when starting this project is to declutter. Get rid of anything in the closet that does not belong in there or anything you haven't used in the last year. Is there a tennis racket stored there? It needs to be stored elsewhere so that your closet will maintain organization. Keep in mind the primary use of the closet.Donate any items that are still in good use, but you no longer use. Homeless missions are in great need of sheets and bath linens and are a good place to donate these items.

Step 2:  After you have decluttered, it's time to get organized. Assign like things with like, such as all the bed linens on one shelf, all the bath linens on another. Tablecloths and runners should be stored on a wireless hanger that can be hung on a door hook or can be placed in the dining area in the sideboard along with napkins and place mats. Storing table linens in another area allows for more space in the linen closet.Separate seasonal items or ones that are used occasionally from those that are used on a daily basis.Beach towels, flannel sheets or quilts might be placed in the back of the closet in the off season, etc. Guest towels might be stored in the guest bathroom.

Step 3:  Sheet sets can be folded and stored together inside one of the matching pillow cases. Be sure to allow two to three sets per bed. Rotate your linens by putting the newly laundered set on top of the stack and use the set that is on the bottom. This allows for equal wear.Sheets used for guests might be stored in the guest bedroom or bath.

Step 4:  Towels, hand towels and washcloths should be stored together. Again, if you lack space in the linen closet, these are items that could be stored in each bathroom.Allow three sets per person and one or two sets per each guest.If towels are stored in the linen closet, guest towels can be kept at the back of the closet since they aren't used as often. If you have a small closet, rolling the towels, instead of folding, will give you a little more space.

Step 5:  If your closet lacks space, sometimes it's helpful to use shelf dividers, adjustable shelving or containers. You can use shelf dividers or wire under mount baskets that hang below the shelf, which makes a good place to store washcloths or hand towels. You can group toiletry items together in attractive and useful containers.Labeling is also a good way to maintain order in your closet. This way everyone knows exactly where everything needs to be, including your guests.To keep the air smelling nice in your closet, you can add lavendar sachets, cedar blocks, drawer liners or baking soda. Allow the air to flow in your closet and don't cram your items together.

 THINGS TO REMEMBER:

• If you have limited space, try using Space Bags, shelf dividers for partitioning or under-mount wire baskets.
• Roll towels to save space.
• Add labels to your shelves for maintaining.
• Store bulky items elsewhere, like a window seat or storage chest.
• Remember the primary function of your closet and use it as such for maintaining.
• Sheets and towels should be stored on the center shelves since these items are used most.