I Tripled the Space in My Linen Closet, Thanks to This Smart Blanket Organizer

I am a card-carrying member of the blanket-loving community, but finding adequate storage for my blankets is becoming increasingly difficult as my collection grows. My scant closets are already putting in overtime on everything else, and I didn’t want to waste an entire shelf on blankets I only occasionally reach for — especially because where I live is hot most of the year. I knew it was time to look for a new solution.

So I decided to look somewhere I probably should’ve considered sooner: underneath my bed. I picked up a set of Ziploc Storage Totes (a longtime editor-favorite) for under $20, and it’s been my best storage purchase yet — especially for my bulkiest blankets and bedding.

Each rectangular XL Ziploc Flexible Tote is made of a thick, durable transparent plastic with a zipper that goes around three sides, and holds a whopping 22 gallons, so there’s room to store bulky linens that can be a pain to store. I found there to be enough room for a full comforter, two blankets, or several sheet sets, depending on your storage needs, and was surprised by the generous amount of room inside something that easily laid flat under my bed. Additionally, each bag has built-in handles for easy transport.

Filling the storage totes is super-straightforward. Just grab your extra linens (or out-of-season clothes, guest towels, stuffed animals, etc.), fold them up neatly, place them inside, and zip up the bag. I appreciate that the totes are flexible so they can mold and squeeze under my bed, and they also have a vented mesh lining so your items can breathe a bit, but if you’re looking for something airtight to keep out moisture or dust, these are not that. 

I appreciate having a smart spot for the bedding and throws I don’t need every day but still want within reach. When the seasons change, if I have guests over, or I just need to swap something out, I know exactly where to look, and because the tote is transparent, I can see where everything is. It’s a simple, inexpensive storage fix that I can get behind — in fact, because it comes in three different sizes, I may have to get one of each for all around my home.

With just one simple find, my linen closet has been retired from being perpetually overstuffed and disorganized. Now that all of my extra blankets and bedding have been relocated compactly, I can finally close the closet door, which is a small but meaningful victory. I also love that I’m using space that was otherwise just collecting dust. Literally!

Buy: XL Ziploc Flexible Tote, 2-Pack, $19.99