Having an organized linen closet can make your life so much easier. However, when space is limited, it can be tricky to keep things tidy and accessible. With some clever solutions, you can make the most of even the smallest linen closet. Here are 16 ideas to help maximize your small linen closet storage.
Use Shelving Units
Installing shelving units is one of the best ways to add storage options in a compact linen closet. Look for units that are tall and narrow to fully utilize the available vertical space. Shelves with dividers are great for neatly stacking folded towels, sheets, and other linens. For a custom look, have shelves cut to size and mounted at different heights to accommodate your various needs.
Opt for Hanging Storage
Hanging space is ideal for keeping bulky items like blankets and comforters organized in a small closet. Install a tension rod below the closet’s rod for bonus hanging room. Use S-hooks on the lower rod to neatly hang plastic shower curtain liners. Hang matching towels on hooks above for a coordinated look.
Roll and Store Items
Rolling up blankets, tablecloths, and cloth napkins helps save space while keeping them crease-free. Store rolled items upright in decorative bins, fabric bags, or even paper towel tubes. This method also makes linens easy to see and access when needed.
Use Removable Wall Hooks
Install removable wall hooks to hang various supplies inside the linen closet door. Use one hook for each family member’s robe or bath wrap. Have other hooks hold hand towels, washcloths, and potholders within arm’s reach when cooking. Remove hooks easily to reposition or replace as needed over time.
Stack with Cubes
Plastic, fabric, or wood storage cubes are useful for neatly stacking and dividing space on closet shelves. They help keep different linens separated and contained. Label cubes to identify contents. Mix sizes to accommodate bulkier items on lower shelves. Stacked cubes also create a clutter-free appearance.
File Fully
Use hanging file folders to store linens and tablecloths vertically within the closet. This protects delicate fabrics from wrinkles while keeping them easy to identify. Use multiple folders divided into types of linens or designate a folder for each place setting. File folders also work well for organizing washcloths, hand towels, and other small linens.
Install Tension Rods
Add bonus vertical storage space with inexpensive tension rods. Install them below existing closet rods or shelves. These handy rods are perfect for hanging ironed tablecloths, aprons, and other specialty linens. Place them low enough to accommodate the item lengths. Also use tension rods higher up to double hanging space.
Stow Seasonal Items
Utilize under-bed storage bags and plastic bins to stow out-of-season linens and shower curtains. Label containers clearly and keep them tucked away until needed. This clears prime closet shelves for everyday essentials. Store the seasonal containers under beds or at the top of the closet once cool weather returns.
Use Lidded Baskets
Lidded baskets are excellent for neatly corralling washcloths, hand towels, rags, and other small linen items on shelves. The basket lid keeps contents dust-free while also hiding clutter. Baskets are easy to remove and reorganize as needed. Label fronts to identify contents. Mix colors and materials for a stylish accent.
Install Door Storage
Maximize the back of the linen closet door by installing over-the-door clear plastic pockets or canvas shelves. Use them to store backup supplies like toilet paper rolls and soap. Hang a small shoe organizer pouch on the door to sort cleaning or laundry supplies. Door storage is perfect for tiny closet extras.
Double Up the Rod
If vertical space allows, install shelving above the existing closet rod, then add a second rod below. The upper shelves provide a place for supplies and overflow, while the double rods double hanging capacity. For safety, make sure to securely anchor any new closet rods you install to support the weight.
Add Drawers
Installing custom drawers maximizes any wasted space between wall studs. Opt for soft-closing drawers to avoid noisy slamming. Use drawer organizers to neatly file table linens inside. Upgrade with drawer pulls for an upscale built-in look. Drawers keep items dust-free and make it easy to see what is stored.
Use Hanging Bags
Clear vinyl hanging bags allow you to see contents easily. Use them to organize hoodie towels by family member. Add cedar sachets to keep linens smelling fresh. You can also neatly store pillowcases and other linens inside, then hang the bags from the closet rod to save shelf space. They keep items protected from dust.
Organize Samples and Swatches
Use photo storage boxes or small lidded bins to neatly store fabric swatches, carpet samples, and other small textile pieces. Keeping similar samples together makes it easy to coordinate designs or find what you need for future repairs and replacements. Stacked sample boxes also help use vertical space efficiently.
Install Adjustable Shelving
Upgrade basic stationary shelves to adjustable versions. Adjustable shelves allow you to reposition them as your storage needs change over time. Place them at just the right heights to maximize vertical storage. Adjust them to fit new items or make room for taller items like stackable bins.
Conclusion
With some savvy solutions, you can transform even the tiniest linen closet into a space-saving storage haven. Use versatile vertical options like shelves, rods, tension rods, and hanging bags. Keep linens neatly filed and rolled using bins, baskets, and folders. Maximize door storage and underused gaps with hooks, over-door options, and custom drawers. Incorporate these clever ideas to stay organized in the smallest of closets.
Frequently Asked Questions About Small Linen Closet Organization
How can I add more shelves to my small linen closet?
If there is enough vertical space, install tall, narrow shelving units designed specifically for closets. Have shelves custom cut and mounted at various heights to maximize storage potential. Also consider adding a second tension rod below the existing closet rod.
What kind of baskets work best?
Lidded baskets in canvas, woven woods, or plastic help hide clutter while neatly corralling small items. Label basket fronts for easy identification. Combine different colors and textures for a stylish accent. Avoid overly large baskets that will be difficult to lift or access.
Should I fold or roll linens?
Folding works well for everyday towels and washcloths to stand upright on shelves. Choose narrow cubbies or bins to fit folded stacks. Rolling is best for tablecloths, blankets, and other large fabrics to prevent creases. Store rolled items upright in bins.
What is the best way to organize off-season linens?
Use plastic under-bed containers or bins to neatly store out-of-season shower curtains, comforters, and other linens. Label the contents clearly. Keep them accessible but out of the way of everyday essentials until needed again.
How do I make use of empty vertical space?
Add a tension rod below the existing closet rod for extra hanging room. Install removable wall hooks on the inside of the door to hang robes, towels, and more. Stack narrow, tall shelving units or cube storage for optimum vertical storage.
How can I keep closet contents dust-free?
Use lidded baskets and bins to contain linens inside. Store items in sealing plastic bags or hanging bags. Fold or roll items tightly. Install doors or drawers to conceal contents. Limit open shelves to only what is used most often.