It’s always fun to buy table linens, table settings, dining table centerpieces, and other decorative pieces for your dining room. Before you know it, you have a collection that expands beyond your capacity to store it in your existing space. As often is the case, the space to store these things in your dining room can be sparse, so you need to get creative. Here are some dining room storage ideas for your table linens and other dining room decor, plus options in other areas of your home.

 

Furniture Pieces for Table Linen Storage

 

Let’s start with the easiest and most obvious table linen storage idea for your dining room, which is using a piece of furniture designed for this purpose. The most popular options include china cabinets with drawers and sideboards/buffet tables. Both of these options may be included in a dining room furniture package or can be easily found at antique shops, vintage, and used furniture stores, estate sales, and even some yard sales. The vintage pieces can often be refinished to match your other décor.

 

 

Store table linens in a vintage pie safe, like this one being sold on Etsy.

 

Somewhat less-obvious choices include kitchen furniture staples, such as a vintage pie safe, a dining table with built-in storage, or a bench or banquette with either a hinged top or drawers for storage.

 

Pie safes may have drawers and shelves. To use the shelves for storage, invest in attractive wire or wicker baskets, or opt for plastic containers that better control the storage environment and limit exposure to moisture or light.

 

There are many projects for storage benches and banquettes online. A simple internet search will offer many options and ideas for DIY linen storage. You can even repurpose a storage ottoman or coffee table as a place to stash your tablecloths and other items.

 

Don’t forget other pieces used for storage in other rooms, such as a bedroom dresser, armoire or chest of drawers. You can repurpose dressers or chests to fit the style of your dining room or kitchen with fresh stain, paint color, or new hardware. The larger drawers will hold anything from coasters to tablecloths, but the smaller drawers of a dresser are the perfect size for storing cloth napkins and napkin holders. In an armoire, you can use the drawers for smaller items, but the compartment built for hanging clothes, once outfitted with padded hangers, can be used for tablecloths.

 

Storing Table Linens Around the House

 

You needn’t limit the storage of table linens to the areas where they are most used. This is particularly true for linens used for holidays or other special occasions because these pieces are not often used. Consider storing your table linens in the pantry or a closet in another room. Also, you can tuck them into containers stored around the home.

 

Making space in your pantry for table linens needn’t be a chore. Baskets and stackable bins protect your table linens, maximize the space for storage, and keep your pantry looking neat. If you have a lot of tablecloths, installing towel rods or racks in the pantry for hanging multiple pieces will help utilize an empty wall or the back of your door.

 

Closet floors can be used for storage bins, as well as the space above the hanging rack to the ceiling. The padded hangers utilized for tablecloths in an armoire can be used for tablecloth storage in a closet, too.

 

Some of the best and least-utilized space for storage in a home is under the bed. You can find containers for this purpose in multiple sizes and materials. One popular option is the Sterilite Ultra Storage Box with Wheels.

 



Out of the Box Table Linen Storage Ideas

 

Things built for one purpose can easily be repurposed for another. There are several options on the market that can be turned into storage for table linens.

 

  • Wine rack: Each wine cubby offers a place to store a rolled tablecloth, placemat, table runner, or cloth napkin. The festive colors of these rolled pieces can even make it a decorative piece for your dining room or eat-in kitchen.
  • Shoe cubbies: Although likely too shallow for tablecloths or runners, a new shoe bin offers a great option for storing cloth napkins or napkin holders, particularly if paired with baskets.
  • Over-the-Door Storage Options: Doors are wasted storage opportunities. For table linens, towel racks or shoe storage are good options. Tablecloths and runners are safely stored on towel racks, while the shoe storage works well for smaller items, like napkins, some placemats, napkin rings, and coasters.
  • Crib Side: Have a baby’s playpen or crib that is no longer needed? The crib rails can be used as a rack for table runner and tablecloth storage.

 

Crib Front to Storage – From DIYJoy.com

 

 

Table Linen Storage Tips

 

Here are some tips for storing your linens without causing damage or wrinkles:

 

  • Always clean and press your table linens before storing them, eliminating any stains or wrinkles. Or better yet, buy linens that don’t require pressing, when removed promptly from the dryer.
  • When storing tablecloths, always fold with the top of the tablecloth folded inward. This helps protect the color.
  • To minimize wrinkles for the under-bed storage option, roll your linens around a cardboard tube, like those in wrapping paper. It’s best to choose cardboard this is acid-free because, otherwise, fumes can cause discoloration.
  • Hangers should be padded to avoid creases in your tablecloths or table runners.
  • If you want to cover your hanging tablecloths, avoid using plastic. Instead, use a pillowcase to protect them.
  • To avoid too much wear and tear in one area, remember to refold your table linens once or twice a year.

 

To find the perfect color, size, and shape table linens for your home or event, don’t forget to visit iQLinens.com. They sell high-quality tablecloths, table runners, cloth napkins, and more to the public either individual pieces or in bulk.