How to Organize Your Linen Closet in 3 Simple Steps

Because when your home works for you—not just around you—everything else flows better, too.

With just a couple of weeks left in the year, organizing your linen closet probably isn’t topping your to-do list — but hear me out.

Whether you're prepping for guests, packing for a trip, or simply trying to reclaim some order before the new year, your linen closet is a great place to start. It’s small enough to tackle in an afternoon, but impactful enough to create daily ease.

This isn’t just about matching towels and aesthetic bins. A reset here helps streamline your routines and free up mental space — so you’re not scrambling to find clean sheets when company’s coming or digging through expired products under pressure.

Here’s how we help clients reset this often-overlooked space — with clarity, confidence, and systems that actually stick.

Step 1: Declutter First — Let Go of What’s Not Serving You

If you’ve followed us for a while, you know we’re big fans of “using the good China.” Translation: don’t hoard the good stuff for someday. Let your home reflect the life you want to live now — including your good linens.

When our team helps organize linen closets, we almost always find two culprits:

First up, the “just in case” stash (half-used products, threadbare towels, pillowcases with no partner). And of course, the “too good to use” stash (luxury candles, guest-only sheets, untouched spa sets)

Sound familiar? Instead of holding on for someday, ask yourself these questions:

Do I use this?

Do I like using this? (if not, why)

Does this still serve my household today?

Here’s a simple rule of thumb to guide your edit:

• 2–3 complete bedding sets per bed

• 3 towels sets per person

• 1 hand towel per day (per person)

• Beauty products: most expire in 12 months (check labels)

• Cleaning products: many degrade after 12–18 months

Pro tip: Before you put anything back, give the shelves a wipe-down with a gentle all-purpose cleaner. If you’re sensitive to fragrance or allergens, we recommend Branch Basics or Force of Nature.

Step 2: Organize by Use, Not Just Aesthetic

Once you’ve decluttered, it’s time to make the space work for your real life — not just Pinterest.

Think through how your household actually functions, Do you share laundry responsibilities with a housekeeper or teen? Is there a favorite go-to product you use daily or weekly? Is your linen closet also home to overflow toiletries, medical supplies, or travel gear?

Start by creating broad categories and give each one a designated “zone.” This ensures, no more overbuying duplicates, faster retrieval of everyday item, and less stress when hosting or packing.

Must-Follow Organizing Rules We Live By:

• Group like items together (linens with linens, paper goods with paper goods)

• Store sheets by bed size (label if needed!)

• Use bins that don’t nest — stackable is better

• Measure your shelves before buying containers

• Maximize vertical space (including the back of the door)

 Our favorite go-to products:

• Hyacinth baskets (natural, breathable)

• Multi-purpose handled bins (easy to slide out)

• Deep Lazy Susan (for bottles, meds, and backups)

Check out our storefront at The Container Store to see client-favorite products we use again and again — plus, don’t miss this beginner’s guide to choosing the right bins from Apartment Therapy.

Step 3: Label to Make It Last

This one might seem small, but trust us — it’s a game-changer.

Labels make your system stick. They reduce friction for everyone in the household (read: no more mystery baskets). And they encourage consistency without micromanagement.

Whether you're using clip-on bin labels, adhesive tape, or custom printed options, remember:

• Keep it simple. Easy-to-read beats fancy fonts.

• Match the size to the container. No oversized labels on mini baskets.

• Use clear language. “Twin Sheets” or “Guest Towels” wins over “Extras.”

If you're feeling fancy, you can always upgrade to custom labels later. But for now? Clear and bold wins.

Your Linen Closet Reset: Small Space, Big Impact

It may not be the flashiest project, but resetting your linen closet can create more ease than you’d expect. With a little decluttering and some smart systems, you'll gain:

• More space

• Faster routines

• Fewer last-minute scrambles

• Peace of mind knowing your home is working for you

And if it still feels like too much to tackle alone? We’re here to help you.

Our team at The Modern Steward offers virtual coaching, full-service in-home organization, and move management to help you create calm and order that lasts.

Ready to reclaim space in your home? We're just a call away.

Work With Us | Download the Free Declutter Roadmap