4 Ways to Keep Matching Sheet Sets Together in the Closet

There's something satisfying about unwrapping a fresh new set of sheets that are folded into a perfectly neat, pressed rectangle. But after a few washes—and maybe some less-than-perfect folding of the dreaded fitted sheet—that previously perfect set of sheets can turn into one big jumble of fabric. Multiply that by a house-full of beds, and it's easy to understand how a linen closet can become one big mess.

That's why it's so important to adopt a method for keeping sheet sets together. As it turns out, there's no one single best way to do this; in fact, we're sharing four expert-recommended methods so you can choose the one that works best for your organizing style and household.

Before You Start

Before you choose your preferred organizing method, you'll want to get rid of any linens you no longer need, and then clear out a spot in your closet.

Downsize Your Linens

Begin by paring your linen collection down to the essentials. "The biggest challenge to keeping matching sheets together is having more sheets than you need," says Kelley Jonkoff, a professional organizer in Raleigh, N.C. "When there are more options to sift through, especially if they are similar to other sets, they more easily get mixed together and reach disarray." A good rule of thumb is to have two sets of sheets per bed.

Decide Where Your Sheets Will Go

Once you know what you're working with, designate which sheet sets will go where. Categorize your linens in a way that makes the most sense for you—by size or by room, for example—and, especially if more than one person will be handling the sheets, label where each set should live. "If many hands are reaching into that closet to put sheets away or pull them out to use, labeling eliminates the guessing game of where to place them and which ones to use," says Cary Prince, a certified professional organizer in Los Angeles.

Beyond labeling, the best way to store your matching sheet sets will depend on what kind of space you have available. Linen closets are typically filled with shallow shelves, but a closet with a rod can work, too. However you choose to physically store them, it's essential that you come up with a system, says Jonkoff. "It's much nicer to interact with your linen closet if you're not feeling exasperated every time you open the linen closet door," she says.

4 Ways to Organize Sheet Sets

Here are four pro-approved ways to keep matching sheet sets together in a linen closet.

Method 1: Fold Matching Sheet Sets Inside a Pillowcase

For a neat-and-tidy look, fold your fitted sheet, flat sheet, and one pillowcase into a rectangle. Then, tuck the entire bundle inside the other pillowcase so everything is flush with the opening. Fold any extra fabric in to make a rectangle. Stack these bundles according to size (twin, full, queen, and king) or by the room you use the sheets in (master bedroom, kids' bedroom, and guest bedroom). The pillowcases will hold the set together and keep from sliding around.

"This method keeps sheet sets together, makes it easy for whoever is putting the sheets away, and is a breeze for the person who is taking them out to make a bed," says Prince. "And, for aesthetic purposes, the closet immediately looks more organized and manageable." If you have lots of sheets, consider adding shelf dividers to keep the stacks straight.

Method 2: Store Matching Sheet Sets Inside Bins

Storing sheets in baskets or bins, organized by size or by room, is another easy solution. "Baskets and bins are great, because they contain well and you can take them out to see the contents," says Jonkoff, who says that they are especially nice for closets with high shelves.

Within the bin, you have options: Jonkoff prefers folding linens so they can be "filed" vertically inside the bin, but Prince notes that bins can also be a good workaround for folks who don't like to fold, since the sets will stay contained inside.

For silk or satin sheets, it may be easier to roll than fold them; store them on their ends inside a bin. Prince recommends canvas bins or wire baskets, as sheets can get snagged on a natural-weave basket.

Method 3: Hang Matching Sheets Sets from Hangers

Sturdy hangers can hold a set of sheets each—and that cuts down on folding time, too. "This is also a good solution if the place where you'd store them is hard to reach, like the high shelf in a closet," says Prince. One caveat: Jonkoff warns that hanging sheets can get dusty if they are not rotated often, so if you don't switch out these sheets often (say, in a guest room), consider enclosing them in a hanging storage bag.

Method 4: Use a Hanging Organizer to Store Matching Sheet Sets

Another solution for a closet with a rod: Storing sheets in a large hanging organizer. Often marketed for bulky items like sweaters, each cloth shelf in a hanging organizer can hold one to two sheet sets, and the cubbies keep them contained. Use this when you want to create a shelf-style system when you don't have shelving.