Organizing the Linen Closet

How should I organize my linen closet contents?

Empty all contents of the shelves onto the floor or flat surface- a bed or table. Pitch anything expired- yes, check every bottle. You’ll be surprised how much stuff you’ll find. Group items into like categories. For categories, think of what aisles and sections you shop when you’re in Walgreens or Target. Containerize items now by their new category. I favor open plastic basket- like containers. That way if something spills you can wash out the baskets, they are easy to label, and because there are no lids you’re more likely to put things back in the right spot. Keep heavy stuff low and place light stuff like toilet paper and Kleenex high.

For linens, match up the sheet sets and towel sets before putting them back on the shelves. Two-three sets of sheets per bed is plenty. And figure on keeping two-three bath towels per family member. Donate extra towels to animal shelters and extra sheets to homeless shelters. Kangaroom storage has great linen organizers if you don’t like linen piles toppling over.