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The linen closet is one of those spaces that goes from neat to chaos the moment someone pulls a towel from the bottom of the stack. With holiday guests coming, it’s the perfect time to get it organized in a way that actually lasts. It doesn’t take fancy containers, just a little editing and a simple system. And there’s something so satisfying about opening the door to neat stacks of soft, folded towels. It’s a small thing, but it makes a home feel cared for.

1. Take everything out

Empty the whole closet. You’ll find sheets that don’t fit any bed, towels that are thin and frayed, and probably a few things that don’t belong there at all.

2. Edit down

• Keep about two sets of sheets per bed: one on, one clean.
• Keep enough towels for everyone, plus a few for guests.
• Donate worn towels and old blankets to an animal shelter. They’re often happy to take them for bedding.
• Let go of sheets for beds you no longer have.

3. Store sheets in sets

This is my favorite linen closet trick. Fold the fitted sheet, flat sheet and one pillowcase, then tuck them all inside the matching second pillowcase. Now every set is grab-and-go, and nobody is digging for a missing piece.

4. Use bins and labels

• Fabric bins with handles for washcloths, beach towels or extra blankets.
• Shelf dividers to keep towel stacks from toppling.
• Simple labels on each shelf or bin (“Guest,” “Primary Bed,” “Kids”) so everyone can put things back.

5. Put the most-used items at eye level

Everyday towels and sheets go in the middle shelves. Seasonal blankets and extra pillows go up top, and bulky items go on the bottom or in a storage bag.

6. Make a guest-ready bin

One of my favorite little habits: keep a bin with a clean sheet set, a couple of towels and a washcloth ready for guests. When someone stays over, you just grab it. Add a few travel-size toiletries and it feels extra thoughtful.

Keep it tidy

Fold the same way every time and put clean laundry away in its labeled spot. Once a season, do a quick five-minute check to pull anything worn out or out of place.

A tidy linen closet is a quiet way of caring for your family and anyone who stays with you. Every time you reach for a fresh towel, you’ll be glad you did.

Tell me what you think over on Instagram. I love hearing from you.

Guest bin bonus: a small candle makes a guest room feel extra welcoming. Our White Tea Soy Candle from Beeholden Farms is soft and fresh.

Keep reading: How to declutter before the holidays and a simple Sunday reset routine.