BLOG: Easy Linen Closet Organization

In the , I mentioned that this week is “National Clean Out Your Closet Week”. Today, we’re going to tackle the linen closet.

Linen closets have a tendency to be a repository for all types of bed and bath things: sheets, towels, toiletries and hygiene products, cosmetics, bath tissue, and much more. Can you find what you need when you need it without things falling out of the closet?

Let’s begin by removing everything from the linen closet. And, as you’re removing items examine them for fitness and usability—don’t be afraid to let go of excess.

Are the sheets torn, stained, or threadbare? Are they complete sets? Do you have extra blankets or duvets? How many do you have? What about the towels? What kind of shape are they in? How many of each do you have? Pare down the supply if necessary.

Separate bed linens by room: master bedroom, kids’ bedrooms, guest room; or, by size: king, queen, full, or twin. Donate excess blankets, sheets and towels in good shape to a local charity or shelter. Those that are torn, stained, or threadbare can be donated to the SPCA on Bay Ridge Avenue in Annapolis.

As you remove toiletries and hygiene products check for expiration dates. Toss expired items and items you don’t use or aren’t likely to use—don’t fall into the “I paid good money for that” trap. Separate keep items into categories: hair care products, bath products, personal care products, oral hygiene, etc. and place in MadeSmart baskets available at .

TIP: If you have medications that require disposal, the FDA recommends that you check for a pharmacy in your area with a “take back” program. If you are unable to find a program, the FDA recommends the following: crush the pills, mix with coffee grounds, sawdust or kitty litter, place in a sealable container (such as a plastic bag), seal the bag/container and place in the trash. Be sure to remove personal information from prescription bottles before placing them in the recycle bin.

Now that the linen closet is empty, give the shelves a quick wipe down before putting the keep items back in.

As you prepare to fill the linen closet, consider where items will “live” and create zones within the closet. For example, you may have a blanket zone, sheet zone, a towel zone, perhaps a toiletries zone, etc. Frequently needed items should be arranged on shelves that are between shoulder and knee height. Less frequently needed items can be stored on upper shelves or lower shelves.

Once everything has been added back to the linen closet, consider labeling the shelves, baskets, and containers to create an “address” where these items live. Labeling makes it easier for your, family members, and house guests to locate, as well as put away things.

TIP: You don’t need a fancy label maker, masking tape and a fine tip marker will work just fine.

That’s it! Now step back and admire your newly organized linen closet!