Q&A with NEAT Method: Linen Closet Organization
Photo by @donnadotanphoto, Styling by @francesfinds
Is it just us, or does your linen closet constantly need organizing and upkeep? Whether it’s folding towels or finding the right set of sheets, sometimes it feels like a linen closet can be a bit of a mess all year round. So rather than living with the mess, we turned to our friends and Co-Founders of the NEAT Method (our trusted source on all things organization), Ashley Murphy (CEO) and Marissa Hagmeyer (COO), to get their tips and tricks on how best to organize your linen closet.
What is the NEAT Method?
Ashley: NEAT Method was launched in 2010 to transform the organizing industry as we know it, offering a fully customized, turn-key service that had never been offered in the category before. These services include space planning, purchasing, and implementing organizing solutions, with a goal to elevate our clients' lifestyles and bring a sense of peace and calm. Since launch, we have grown to reach over 100 markets across the US and Canada.
In 2020 we took our organization offerings one step further, introducing our very own product collection to coincide with our systems, providing the perfect balance of aesthetics and function.
How often should one organize their linen closet?
Marissa: Once you’ve created a system in your linen closet, you shouldn’t have to reorganize unless the contents change. This might be the case if you add a family member, transition to a new bed size, or if you accumulate more of any existing category. For most people, it’s a good idea to keep things in check with an edit of any excess items once or twice a year - especially if you store backstock toiletries.
How often should one “change over” their linen closet seasonally?
Ashley: If you have room, we suggest storing all your linens together. However, for smaller homes, it might make sense to keep bulky winter blankets and linens out of the way in lidded bins during the summer months.
Where should one start when organizing their linen closet?
Ashley: Start by pulling everything out and giving your linens a good edit. Check for any that no longer fit the beds in your home, those that are torn or stained, and any unnecessary duplicates.
What’s the best way to keep sheets/towels together?
Marissa: We suggest grouping linens and towels together by type or set, whichever works best for you. From there, you can stack each category together or fold it within a soft-sided container like our Oxford Bin.
What’s your method for folding sheets? Folding the top of the bed?
Marissa: The trick to folding sheets is to fold one, then fold the rest to mimic its size. This way, they will stack together nicely. If you’re struggling to get them to look similar, try placing each category into a bin to hide any folds that look off. Just don’t forget to add labels so you know what is stored where.
And your method for folding towels (washcloth, hand, body)?
Ashley: Whether you choose to stack on a shelf or file fold within a bin, we always suggest orienting each towel with the fold facing out. This will allow you to easily see where one item ends and the next begins. Exactly how you fold will depend on the depth of the shelf (or bin) you are storing them on. Whatever you do, be sure to repeat the process for each item in the category for a streamlined stack that is the same width and depth every time.
Are there any essential organizational items you suggest for linen closets?
Marissa: Our Oxford Bins are perfect for corralling smaller items that may topple in a stack like washcloths and hand towels. They are soft-sided so they won’t snag the fabric and come in multiple sizes.
What is your favorite linen closet organizational tip to give to your clients?
Ashley: Limit yourself to three sets of sheets per bed. This way when you toss one in the laundry you can place a new set on the bed and have one more available, just in case. Our favorite tip? Use the same set immediately after washing to avoid ever folding sheets again!