Linen closets often attract much more than linens, turning into the catchall for anything bed and bath. If the mound of pillows, blankets, towels, sheets, table linens and toiletries makes you scared to even open the door, it may be time to conquer your fear and perform an organization overhaul.
Because the primary function of linen closets is to be functional, I recommend asking yourself some questions about the stuff that's crammed inside. First, ask yourself, Where do I use the items (towels, sheets, pillows, etc.)? Second, What do I need for each area of my house? Your answers should govern what goes into your linen closet.
PURGE AND PREPARE
We actually use 20 percent of what we own 80 percent of the time. That's not to say that you should get rid of everything, but that's how you can best approach how to organize a closet.
First, identify what you need to store in your linen closet. I recommend categorizing items during your sort, and donating items you're not using. For larger items, "think outside the closet." Remember that "just because it's a pillow doesn't mean it has to go in the linen closet."
After you know what's going into the closet, wipe the shelves with a damp cloth or sponge and wait until dry before lining them.
Stylish baskets help organize towels and toiletries in the closet.
OPT FOR ADJUSTABLE SHELVES
Ideally, a linen closet should be in a cool, dry place in the home. But if your linen closet is in a bathroom,I recommend ventilated wire shelving for increased airflow between linens.
To further identify units of items, labeling is a good idea. A lot of people have difficulty organizing because they have a problem maintaining, but with labels every member of your family — and even your guests — will know where the towels go.
EACH ITEM IN ITS PROPER PLACE
As the mainstays of the linen closet, it's important to keep towels and bedsheets front and center. Keep your frequently used items accessible. That means storing seasonal or occasional items in the back or top of the closet, or in another place entirely, like the front hall closet. Things like beach towels should be stacked behind regularly used towels, or higher up with other less-used items. And bulky items like comforters, quilts and pillows that are for guests or that are rotated seasonally can be stored in storage bags.
Towels
To get the most storage space for bulky towels, it's best to fold them in thirds lengthwise, then into a rectangle. Place on shelves at your eye level or below, so the edges face toward the back for a neat appearance. If your closet is on the smaller side, consider rolling your towels for extra space.
To fit towels into smaller spaces, consider rolling them.
Sheets
A clever way to store multiple sets of sheets is by storing them neatly in a matching pillowcase. It's always a good idea, especially if you're a busy family, to have two sets of sheets for each bed. If you have lots of beds in different sizes, try buying different-colored sheets for each one so you don't mix them up. Then, stack sheets in collapsible linen storage containers.
Things like tablecloths and antique linens should be hung on a non-wire hanger. Otherwise, fold them flat and stack them on a shelf .If you prefer to store your linens in baskets, be sure to find ones with a lining to prevent snags. Dinner napkins and table runners are best grouped together. If you don't use them that often, be sure to keep them on the sides or at the top of the closet, or in a storage space in your dining room.
Toiletries
When it comes to toiletries, having a well-stocked linen closet can be a tremendous time saver. Baskets make an attractive solution for storing toiletry items like shampoo, loofahs and soaps.
KEEPING THINGS FRESH
Linens, like clothing, can become stagnant when they aren't frequently used. To keep your linens smelling fresh, place a box of baking soda or a lavender sachet on the shelf. Sachets are easy to buy or make from a scrap of fabric and ribbon, but the scent does wear out over time. It's a good idea to take out everything and launder it periodically — six months to a year just to freshen it.
Complete Laundry-Room Cleaning Checklist
The Washer
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Run white vinegar through the washer. This will sanitize the inside and clear away soap scum.
The Dryer
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Empty the lint trap. Wipe off fuzz with a damp cloth or a used fabric-softener sheet. Or wet your hands and run your fingers over the mesh screen to scoop up the lint. Fabric softener can cause a waxy buildup on the screen, so wash it out in a sink or vacuum it.
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Wipe the interior walls of the dryer. Use a cloth dampened with dishwashing liquid and warm water. Scrub any linty residue around the trap opening with an old toothbrush, if necessary.
Both Appliances
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Wipe down the outside of each appliance. Clean the fronts, sides, and tops using a cloth dampened with a few drops of dishwashing liquid or all-purpose cleaner.
The Sink
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Wash with cleaner and a cloth. Then shine the faucet with a microfiber cloth.
The Countertops
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Clean the surfaces, shelving, and bins. Wipe them down with a cloth and cleaner, and then do the same with the cabinet fronts.
The Floor
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Mop or vacuum. Start from the farthest corner of the room and work toward the door, from left to right. Launder rugs, if possible, or vacuum them. Run a dust mop underneath the washer and the dryer, if it fits. Airborne lint can get kicked underneath the appliances and create a fire hazard if it piles up.
The Dryer Hose
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Run an extendable duster around the inside of the dryer hose. Or vacuum it with a crevice attachment. Either method will clear away the lint that accumulates on the walls of the hose.
The Backs of the Washer and Dryer
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Clean behind the appliances. On a low setting, with a brush attachment, vacuum the backs of the washing machine and the dryer and the flooring underneath. To reach behind the units, move the machines using appliance wheels or casters (available at hardware stores). Be careful not to stretch the dryer hose. If the hose looks too short, disconnect it first.
The Vents
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Using a brush attachment, vacuum the vents on a high setting. Dust and lint, particularly in this room, can clog the vents, reducing airflow in the room. Wipe the vents’ grates with a damp cloth.
The Windows
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Spritz glass cleaner on a cloth. Or try dishwashing liquid and water. Pass over the sill and the frame with the damp cloth. Vacuum curtains, if you have them, with a brush attachment.
The Iron
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Clean mineral deposits and spray-starch buildup. Make a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to a cloth, and wipe down the iron. Circle the holes on the soleplate with cotton swabs.
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