Every fall, the same question comes up: where do you put the summer bedding while the warm comforters and flannel sheets come out? Good bedding storage keeps your linens clean, fresh and ready for next season, and frees up space in a crowded closet. Here’s how to store comforters, sheets and blankets properly, and which boxes, bags and containers work best for each.
When to swap your bedding
Most households change their bedding twice a year: once in late fall, when nights turn cold, and again in spring. It’s the perfect moment to sort through what you own. Donate or recycle sheets that are worn thin, and set aside anything that needs mending. If you’re building warmer layers for winter, our guide to cozying up your bedroom for winter has ideas.
Always clean before you store
The single most important rule is to wash everything before it goes into storage. Body oils, skin cells and small stains that are invisible now can yellow fabric and attract pests over the months. Follow each care label, and make sure every item is completely dry before you pack it. Even slight dampness can lead to mildew and musty smells. Thick comforters take a long time to dry, so check the filling all the way through. Our guide to washing a comforter walks you through it.
Bedding storage options compared
Breathable fabric bags
Cotton or canvas storage bags are the classic choice for comforters, duvets, quilts and wool blankets. They let air circulate, which keeps natural fibers fresh, while still keeping out dust. Many comforters are sold in a zip bag that works well for storage, too.
Plastic bins with lids
Sturdy lidded bins protect against dust, water and pests and stack neatly in a garage or closet. They work well for sheets and synthetic blankets. Make sure everything inside is fully dry, and consider adding a cotton pillowcase or sheet as a liner so fabrics aren’t pressed directly against plastic for months.
Vacuum storage bags
Vacuum bags squeeze the air out and can shrink a bulky comforter to a fraction of its size, which is very handy in small homes. They suit synthetic fills well. Down and feather comforters can lose some loft if they stay compressed for a long time, so give them plenty of time to recover after unpacking, or choose a roomier option for them.
Under-bed containers
Low, wide containers that slide under the bed keep spare sheets and guest bedding close at hand. Choose ones with lids or zip covers to keep dust out.
Blanket chests and baskets
A blanket chest at the foot of the bed or a large basket in the living room keeps throws and extra blankets ready to grab on cold evenings while doubling as decor.
Where to store bedding
- Choose a cool, dry place. A closet shelf, under the bed or a dry spare room is ideal.
- Avoid damp basements and hot attics. Humidity encourages mildew, and heat can yellow and weaken fabrics.
- Keep it off the floor in garages and basements, in case of leaks or flooding.
- Keep it out of direct sunlight, which can fade colors.
- Many people tuck cedar blocks or lavender sachets in with wool and natural fibers. Don’t let cedar oil touch fabric directly.
Organizing a linen closet
A tidy linen closet makes it much easier to find what you need:
- Store sheet sets inside one of their own pillowcases. Fold the fitted sheet, flat sheet and spare pillowcase, then slip them all into the matching case. The whole set stays together.
- Group by room or bed size so you’re not unfolding sheets to check if they’re queen or king.
- Label shelves, bins or boxes clearly.
- Keep the heaviest items low and lighter sheets higher up.
- Leave a little space so air can circulate.
If you’re not sure which sizes you have, our guide to bedding sizes can help.
Getting stored bedding ready to use
When you bring bedding out of storage, shake it out and let it air for a few hours, outdoors if the weather is dry. A quick wash or a tumble on low heat will refresh anything that smells stored. Fluff down comforters well so the filling can recover its loft. Then it’s ready to go on the bed. See how to layer bedding for the best order.
FAQ
Is it OK to store bedding in plastic bags?
Thin, sealed plastic bags can trap moisture and are best for short-term storage only. Breathable cotton bags or lidded bins with a fabric liner are better for long periods.
Can I store a down comforter in a vacuum bag?
You can for short periods, but long-term compression can reduce loft. A breathable bag with some extra room is a gentler choice.
How do I stop stored bedding from smelling musty?
Make sure everything is clean and completely dry before storing, choose a dry spot and let air circulate. Air items out before using them again.
How many sets of sheets should I keep per bed?
Two or three sets per bed is plenty for most homes: one on the bed, one in the wash and one spare.