A Fresh Start on Organizing Your Home: The Linen Closet

13367184_SFor some reason linen closet organization tends to break down over time. Before you know it, the pillowcases that match those queen-size sheets have vanished, and you aren’t even sure what size that one sheet actually is. Towels of all sizes scatter through the shelves, and all of the washcloths have gathered at the back all bunched up.

If your linen closet gets this way even though you straighten it up regularly – or whenever you have time – here are a few suggestions to help you take and keep control of your linens.

Pre-mark all sheet sets. Using a sharpie, write a small K, Q, D, or T at the bottom right corner of each fitted sheet. This serves two purposes: to let you know at a glance which size sheet set you have, and to help you easily put the sheets on in the right direction when you make the beds.

Package your linens. Fold the fitted sheet, top sheet and any extra pillowcases and place them all inside one pillowcase. Having trouble folding sheets in a compact way? Search for sheet folding instructions on Pinterest for ideas. Fold the hand towels and washcloths inside your bath towels, making a tidy package.

Contain the small stuff. Use baskets or bins to hold and control all of your smaller items so they don’t go wandering around the shelves. The only exception? If you keep soap, candles or other scented items in your linen closet, you may want to tuck a few things in with the sheets and towels to add a nice scent.

Police your linen closet. It’s easy to straighten up a space when it just starts to go south, but much harder if you put it off too long. Every time you put away clean linens, do a quick check to make sure everything is in the right place. That way you can always find anything you need when you need it.