The Perfect Way to Store Bed Sheets and Linen All Year Round
May 15, 2025
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You’d think storing bed sheets would be simple. Fold them, stack them, and move on, right? If you've ever reached for a fresh set only to find it wrinkled, musty, or missing a pillowcase, you know there's more to the story. Between seasonal shifts, space limitations, and the constant cycle of laundry, keeping your bedding in good shape takes a little planning and knowing how to store linens isn’t something you can inherently know.
Whether you're storing sheets during the summer to make room for flannel sets, packing away guest linens until the holidays, or simply trying to keep your linen closet under control, this guide lays out real-life solutions for storing bed sheets all year long.
Before making any changes, quickly examine what you're storing. Bed sheets, pillowcases, comforters, duvet covers, towels, and blankets all fall under the broad umbrella of household linens, but they vary in how they should be stored. Cotton sheets breathe well and fold neatly. Down comforters take up more space and don’t do well in humid areas. Microfiber holds onto scents longer than you’d expect.
Group items that serve the same purpose. Sheets for the guest room can be stored together, and winter blankets should be kept in a separate stack. If you’re short on space, focus on what you use often and look at alternatives for the rest.
No one-size-fits-all folding method exists, but messy piles are a good way to waste space. You're not alone if you’ve never figured out how to fold a fitted sheet without giving up halfway through. Plenty of people tuck the corners into each other, fold it into a rectangle, and call it done. That’s fine as long as it fits neatly into your chosen storage spot.
Some prefer rolling sheets, especially if they’re storing them in baskets or soft bins. Others store entire sets inside one of the matching pillowcases. This keeps everything together and makes it easier to grab a full set without hunting for pieces. Try a couple of methods and stick with the one that’s easiest to keep up.
If you’re storing bed sheets alongside bath towels, don’t let them tangle. Linens that serve different functions should be stored separately. A simple solution is to sort by room, so each linen set belongs to a specific bed or bathroom. Label shelves or bins if needed. You’ll avoid frustration and get into a better habit of returning items to their proper place.
If your space is limited, store seasonal or less-used items elsewhere. Guest bedding and extra bath towels don’t need prime space if they’re rarely used. Vacuum storage bags can help compress bulky items but are best reserved for synthetic materials. Natural fibers can be damaged when compressed for long periods.
No rule says sheets belong in a linen closet. Where to store sheets depends on your home layout and how often you use the items. A bedroom dresser drawer or storage bench at the foot of the bed might make more sense for everyday sheets.
Under-bed storage boxes work well if they’re sealed and easy to pull in and out. If you’re using the space beneath your bed, keep sheets in a fabric container with a zippered cover to protect them from dust. Plastic bins can work too, but avoid those with airtight lids if your sheets aren’t completely dry.
Furniture with hidden compartments or guest room closets can also be used to store linens. Don’t forget that vertical space matters, too. Consider adding shallow shelving above a washer and dryer or installing wall hooks to hang cloth bags filled with bedding by size.
Plastic bags might seem like a simple storage solution, but they often cause more problems than they solve. Thin plastic can trap moisture and restrict airflow, which increases the risk of musty smells or mildew. Unless the bag is breathable and designed for textiles, it’s better to use fabric or canvas storage options.
If you need a longer-term solution, look for zippered fabric storage cubes, cotton bags, or baskets with lids. These let linens breathe while keeping out dust. If you must use plastic, make sure items are completely dry, and consider adding a moisture absorber inside the bin.
Storing bed sheets to avoid musty odors often involves considering airflow. Tightly packed linens can develop stale smells, especially if they sit untouched for months. Rotate your sheet sets regularly, even if they’re not in frequent use. Open storage containers or closet doors every few months to let in fresh air.
Avoid overloading shelves or drawers. Allow space between each set to keep air circulating. To absorb odors and add a clean scent, you can also use drawer liners, cedar blocks, or small sachets filled with lavender or baking soda.
Bed sheets and blankets may not seem like targets, but in the wrong conditions, they can attract dust mites, moths, or silverfish. Store bedding in cool, dry areas that aren’t exposed to fluctuating temperatures to prevent this.
If you're using open shelving, stack linens inside lidded containers or baskets. For longer-term storage, choose fabric bins with zippers and add a few cedar chips or lavender sachets. Avoid storing linens directly on the floor, especially in older homes or basements.
No matter where or how you store bedding, always start with freshly laundered sheets. Dirt, oils, and body products can attract insects or cause yellowing over time. Even slightly damp fabric can grow mildew inside a bin or drawer. Take the extra time to wash and dry everything thoroughly before you fold.
Adding a light spritz of linen spray or a few sachets between stacks can help keep things fresh, especially if you won’t need the sheets again for a few months. Avoid heavy perfumes or anything that leaves a residue, especially on fabrics close to the skin.
Thick blankets and winter flannel sheets take up a lot of space. Instead of stuffing them into corners, consider using climate-controlled storage. Temperature swings can damage fabric over time, especially in hot or humid climates. A consistent environment keeps fabric in better shape.
StoreEase offers climate-controlled units that protect against moisture, pests, and extreme temperatures. If you only need seasonal access, this is an easy way to free up space at home without sacrificing what you need.
If your home storage is already at capacity, self-storage can relieve the pressure. Extra bedding, guest linens, and out-of-season items don’t need to clog up your closets year-round. With StoreEase, it’s easy to get set up fast. The Two Minute Move-In works through the app or at on-site kiosks, so you can be in and out without paperwork or waiting around.
StoreEase units are available in multiple sizes, with climate-controlled options, Bluetooth gate access, and Virtual Managers available to answer questions on-site. With locations across the country, finding a unit nearby is simple.
The best part of using StoreEase is that it requires little effort. Once your linens are clean, dry, and folded, pack them in breathable containers and move them into your unit. Keep items together, label your bins, and stack everything in a way that’s easy to access when the seasons change.
Whether you need to store bedding from a recent move or you’re creating space for a home renovation, StoreEase helps make that extra room feel a little more manageable.
Storing bed sheets doesn’t have to be complicated. Clean them, fold them with care, give them a dedicated space, and choose breathable containers that work with your setup. For everything else, off-site storage can be a smart solution.
If your closets are packed or you’re tired of digging through unmarked bins, now is the time to rethink how you store household linens. StoreEase gives you the space and support to do it right.
Ready to simplify your storage? Find a StoreEase location near you and get started today.