Storing blankets properly not only keeps them clean and free of dust and bugs but also helps them last longer. With some creative storage solutions, you can neatly tuck away blankets of all sizes while adding style to your home. Here are 14 ideas for storing blankets in fun and functional ways.
Use Baskets for A Casual Look
Baskets made of natural materials like rattan, bamboo, or wicker create a laidback, casual vibe perfect for blankets. Choose baskets in different shapes and sizes to stash blankets in the living room, bedroom, or guest room. A few options include:
- Rattan baskets – The open weave provides airflow to prevent moisture buildup. Use lidded baskets to keep blankets dust-free.
- Wicker baskets – The tighter weave fully conceals blankets. Select baskets with handles for easy portability around the house.
- Bamboo baskets – These sturdy, sustainable baskets come in rectangular or round shapes to suit your space. The neutral hue blends into any décor.
Baskets give a lightweight feel and can be stacked to save floor space. Fold blankets loosely and place them upright in the baskets so they’re ready to grab when needed.
Repurpose Suitcases for A Vintage Look
Turn old suitcases into handy blanket storage with a nostalgic, vintage vibe. Leather and metal cases with minimal detailing work best to create a timeless look. Make sure to thoroughly clean any vintage cases to sanitize them before use.
Stack evenly sized suitcases horizontally like library shelves to store folded blankets. Or stand a few upright together like a block of dresser drawers. Monogrammed initials or vintage travel stickers personalize each case.
Small, soft-sided suitcases are perfect for storing baby blankets or travel blankets. Place these in the nursery, kid’s room, or guest area as needed. The compact size tucks them out of the way.
Suitcase storage allows quick access to blankets while contributing fun, old-fashioned flair. For more capacity, look for oversized and extended length cases.
Utilize Storage Benches for Seating Plus Storage
An ottoman bench with a lifted seat to form interior storage offers the ideal solution for adding seating and discretely tucking away blankets. Look for storage benches with ample depth and a wide, hinged opening on top to easily access the interior.
Use storage benches topped with a cushion in entryways, at the foot of the bed, or next to sofas to enable seating while concealing blankets right underneath. The compressor lid keeps items dust-free when closed.
For lots of capacity, choose a long, low-profile bench that can accommodate several tightly rolled blankets inside. Or select a cube-shaped storage ottoman that can be used as a coffee table when not storing blankets.
With storage benches, blankets remain hidden from view but easy to access as needed. Just lift the seat to reveal the contents.
Hang Blankets for Quick Access
Installing a few hooks on the wall creates blanket storage that takes up zero floor space. Mount the hooks near where you use blankets the most – by the couch, recliner, or bed so they’re handy whenever you want to get cozy.
- Command hooks – Adhesive hooks securely attach to the wall without nails or tacks and remove cleanly. Use the large size hooks to support the weight of heavy blankets.
- Decorative hooks – Ornate, cast metal hooks with finials add flair while holding blankets. Stagger them at various heights for visual interest.
- Wall-mounted rod – Install a short curtain rod or valance rod on the wall to hang blankets on decorative hooks along the rod. This offers centralized storage for multiple blankets.
Simply fold or roll blankets and drape them over the hooks. Place hooks low enough for easy reach. Add labels to identify each blanket.
Store Blankets in Drawers
For a space-saving solution with blankets concealed and compressed, utilize dresser or chest drawers to store neatly folded blankets out of sight.
- Evaluate drawer measurements to ensure blankets fit smoothly without bunching. Measure folded blankets to determine the best fit.
- Use the bottom drawers of tall dressers or chests to store bulky blankets close to the floor. Reserve upper drawers for lighter bedding.
- Dividers in drawers keep different blankets separated. Line drawers with a soft material to prevent snags.
- Label drawers to identify blanket locations. Use organizers inside drawers to neatly stack folded blankets.
Storing blankets compressed in drawers helps maximize every inch of space while protecting them from dust and damage.
Fold Blankets Inside Bins
Plastic storage bins stack efficiently while protecting contents from moisture, bugs, and dust. Clear bins allow viewing contents. Choose lidded bins to conceal blankets inside.
Measure folded blankets before purchasing bins to ensure proper fit. Bins come in small, medium, and large sizes to accommodate different blanket sizes. Stack them vertically to conserve floor space.
Label each bin using permanent marker or adhesive labels. Store blankets in bins positioned on closet shelves, in basements, attics, or garages to maximize unused space. The sealable lids keep them dry and clean.
Bins provide easy access to blankets when needed. Just remove the lid, unfold, and use. Then refold and replace in the bin for dust-free storage.
Drape Blankets Over Shelves
Open, wall-mounted shelving that extends wider than the depth of folded blankets enables neatly draping blankets for an organized display. Stagger blankets over the shelves for a layered look.
Floating ledge shelves mounted a few inches from the wall allow blanketing to cascade down from each shelf. Or install shelves long enough to fold blankets and place them horizontally.
Use shelves in the bedroom to store extra throw blankets within reach. Or install them in the family room to display neatly folded throws and allow easy access for getting cozy on the couch.
The visibility makes selecting a certain blanket quick and easy. Just grab one off the shelf and unfurl it when needed.
Stand Blankets Upright in Cubbies
The vertical compartments of cube organizers or cubby shelving units allow standing blankets upright for space-efficient storage. Measure folded blankets to ensure the cubbies are tall and wide enough.
Use cubbies in a closet, mudroom, or laundry area to keep different blankets separated. Stack two cube organizers to double capacity. Leave some cubbies open for storing other linens or belongings.
Label each cubby to identify the blanket inside. Use colorful bins or baskets to contain blankets in cubbies for a coordinated look. The upright position leaves blankets visible and accessible.
Cubbies utilize vertical space to store multiple blankets in a compact footprint. Just open the cubby and pull out the blanket.
Get Creative With Ladders
A vintage ladder hung horizontally provides both form and function for blanket storage. Lean the ladder decorative side out above a dresser or shelf unit. Drape blankets over each rung.
- Paint or stain a salvaged wooden ladder to match your décor. Add distressing for an antiqued, rustic appearance.
- For boho flair, look for a colorful, woven rope ladder. Layer blankets over the rungs in complementary colors.
- Or try a leaning library ladder secured to the wall above bookshelves. Angle it to an open position for draping folded blankets over the rungs.
Ladder storage adds visual appeal while keeping blankets off the floor and within arm’s reach. Try arranging blankets in a color spectrum.
Roll and Stand Blankets Like a Jewelry Display
An upright jewelry organizer with slats or pegboards for hanging earrings and necklaces lends itself perfectly for storing rolled blankets on end. Install it on the wall or position it on the closet floor.
- On each slat, stand a tightly rolled blanket, secured with ribbon or twine. This keeps the set neatly organized and upright.
- For pegboards, loop ribbon through the center of rolled blankets and hang them from pegs. Angle pegs to stagger the rows.
- Use one with drawers to store rolled blankets upright in the drawers. Or stack baskets on the shelves below.
The vertical storage preserves floor space while keeping rolled blankets accessible at a glance. Easily identify and remove each blanket.
Toss Blankets Inside Cabinets
For out of sight blanket storage, stash them inside empty kitchen or bathroom cabinets that likely have unused space. Tri-fold blankets to slide them neatly onto shelves.
- Use magazine holders or small baskets to contain folded blankets inside cabinets. This keeps them organized and dust-free.
- Label the outside of the cabinet door to indicate the contents inside. Measure first to ensure proper fit.
- Store extra throws or lightweight blankets inside upper cabinets within easy reach. Reserve lower cabinets for bigger, bulkier blankets.
Cabinet storage clears up other areas while utilizing vacant space behind cabinet doors. Cabinets neatly conceal folded blankets until needed.
Stand Blankets Inside Closet Ends
Most closet end caps or side walls have empty vertical space perfect for upright blanket storage. Install shelving brackets along the sides to create tiered space for standing rolled or folded blankets.
- Fasten the brackets at varying heights. Measure first to position shelves/brackets to fit blankets.
- Roll or fold blankets neatly and stand them upright in the space between the brackets.
- Angle wider blankets across corners to fit more. Label blankets along the upper edge for identification.
This utilizes awkward, often-unused space while neatly stashing blankets. Add end caps on shelves to hold rolled blankets in place.
Get Crafty With Blanket Ladders
A DIY wooden ladder blanket rack lets you personalize the size and finish to suit your space. Follow these simple steps:
Materials needed:
- 1″ x 3″ x 8′ pine board
- Wood glue
- Stain, paint, or polyurethane
Instructions:
- Cut the wood into two 36” long pieces and two 16” long pieces for ladder sides. Cut rungs 12” long in desired number to fit blankets.
- Lay side pieces parallel to each other. Attach rungs evenly spaced between sides using wood glue. Allow to dry completely.
- Sand smooth. Finish with stain and polyurethane, paint, or your choice of decoration. Allow finishing to fully dry.
- Attach decorative hooks along the rungs for hanging folded blankets. Lean against the wall for support.
The handmade ladder adds rustic charm while neatly stowing blankets off the floor. Customize the design to suit your unique style.
Sew A Blanket Hammock
For easy access to baby blankets or throws, sew a blanket hammock to hang on the wall. Follow this guide:
Materials needed:
- Sturdy fabric like canvas, denim, or twill for the bag
- Thread to match fabric
- Large needle
- D-ring or O-ring at top for hanging
Instructions:
- Cut fabric into a 25” wide by 36” long rectangle. Fold in half to 17″ x 25”. Sew the sides closed using a 1/2″ seam allowance.
- At the top folded edge, sew a casing 1” down from the top. Insert a d-ring or o-ring into the casing.
- Mark a line 10” from the bottom. Sew horizontally across to create a pocket.
- Turn right side out and press flat. Topstitch around the outer edges for a finished look.
- Hang on a hook screwed into the wall studs. Fold blankets and place in the hammock.
The hanging blanket bag keeps favorite blankets handy while adding a handmade touch. Customize the size to fit your space.
Frequently Asked Questions About Blanket Storage
Storing blankets properly helps them last. Here are answers to common questions about choosing the best storage methods:
What is the best way to fold blankets for storage?
Fold blankets loosely to avoid creasing. Start by laying the blanket face down neatly smoothed out. Fold into thirds lengthwise. Then fold in half widthwise. This keeps the layers even and prevents bunching in storage.
Should you store blankets in plastic bags?
Plastic bags can trap moisture leading to mildew growth. But for short-term storage, placing clean, dry blankets in plastic zipper bags with air squeezed out can protect them from dust and bugs.
How do you protect blankets from moths and carpet beetles?
To deter fabric-eating pests, periodically wash blankets or dry cleaning them. Store clean blankets in sealed plastic bins or bags. Mothballs and cedar blocks also repel bugs.
Where should you store blankets to protect from humidity?
Avoid attics, basements and garages where humidity can lead to mildew. The best places are closets, dressers, baskets, or shelves inside climate-controlled areas of your home.
Should you store blankets in an airtight space?
While airtight plastic bins keep dust and pests out, blankets need airflow to prevent moisture buildup. So use containers with ventilation slots or store blankets in open cubbies, on shelves, or in breathable fabric bins.
Conclusion
Storing blankets properly helps extend their life and usage while adding decorative flair to your space. Choose storage furnishings like baskets, chests, and hanging racks that complement your room’s aesthetics. Use organizational solutions like labels, bins, and dividers to stay tidy. Stash out-of-season blankets in lidded plastic totes or upstairs closets. With these smart storage ideas, your blanket collection will stay conveniently accessible and ready to provide cozy comfort whenever needed. Just be sure blankets are clean, dry, and loosely folded to prevent damage. Then incorporate one or more of these creative options to store blankets based on your space and needs.