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By Bed Threads Bedding 15.07.2020

How To Store Cotton Sheets

Find out how to store cotton sheets, from folding properly to long-term storage.

The most satisfying part about doing the laundry is storing everything neatly away after all the hard work.

When it comes to cotton sheets, storing them away properly means you can count on fresh, clean sheets the moment you need them. After all, good storage is an essential part of caring for cotton bedding. But smart linen storage takes a bit of care and preparation to nail.

Get this final laundry-day chore wrong, and your sheets could end up smelling musty, getting stained or dusty — far from ideal!

Below, a comprehensive guide on how to store cotton sheets like a pro, whether you’re rotating your sheet set or switching bedding with the seasons. Here’s everything you need to know.

A neatly made bed with peach-colored sheets and two Bed Threads Butterscotch Organic Cotton King Pillowcases rests against a plain white wall on a dark wooden floor.
Close-up of the Butterscotch Organic Cotton Flat Sheet by Bed Threads, featuring a small beige label on soft, breathable fabric—ideal bedding for your home.
A close-up view of the Butterscotch Organic Cotton ny Bed Threads reveals gentle folds and soft wrinkles, highlighting the luxurious texture of this GOTS certified bedding.
A neatly made bed with two pillows and a wrinkled Butterscotch Organic Cotton Fitted Sheet by Bed Threads, set against a plain white wall.
A neatly made bed features the Bed Threads Berry Organic Cotton Duvet Cover with mauve pillows, tan sheets, and a light wooden frame. Beside it sits a round table with lamp and cup, blue modern chair, and textured abstract artwork above.
A neatly made bed with light brown bedding and Bed Threads' Butterscotch Organic Cotton King Pillowcases stands against a pale wall. To the left is a round white floor lamp and stacked books; to the right, a small table with pink flowers in a vase. A blue square artwork hangs above.
A bright, modern bedroom features a wooden bed dressed in Bed Threads’ Butterscotch Organic Cotton Fitted Sheet, Vanilla bedding, a wooden bench at the foot, two nightstands, gray curtains on a large window, and a contemporary white ceiling light.
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  • A neatly made bed with peach-colored sheets and two Bed Threads Butterscotch Organic Cotton King Pillowcases rests against a plain white wall on a dark wooden floor.
  • Close-up of the Butterscotch Organic Cotton Flat Sheet by Bed Threads, featuring a small beige label on soft, breathable fabric—ideal bedding for your home.
  • A close-up view of the Butterscotch Organic Cotton ny Bed Threads reveals gentle folds and soft wrinkles, highlighting the luxurious texture of this GOTS certified bedding.
  • A neatly made bed with two pillows and a wrinkled Butterscotch Organic Cotton Fitted Sheet by Bed Threads, set against a plain white wall.
  • A neatly made bed features the Bed Threads Berry Organic Cotton Duvet Cover with mauve pillows, tan sheets, and a light wooden frame. Beside it sits a round table with lamp and cup, blue modern chair, and textured abstract artwork above.
  • A neatly made bed with light brown bedding and Bed Threads' Butterscotch Organic Cotton King Pillowcases stands against a pale wall. To the left is a round white floor lamp and stacked books; to the right, a small table with pink flowers in a vase. A blue square artwork hangs above.
  • A bright, modern bedroom features a wooden bed dressed in Bed Threads’ Butterscotch Organic Cotton Fitted Sheet, Vanilla bedding, a wooden bench at the foot, two nightstands, gray curtains on a large window, and a contemporary white ceiling light.
£50.00 - £80.00
4.5
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars
77 Reviews
Add to Cart

Clean your sheets properly before storing

Storing sheets correctly helps to keep them clean, smelling fresh and ready for use whenever you need them.

Before you begin, it’s essential to wash and dry them properly.

Washing cotton sheets

Washing cotton sheets is simple — it just requires a washing machine and regular washing detergent.

Start by checking the care instructions. Most cotton sheets can be washed in cold or warm water on a standard laundry cycle. Use a mild washing detergent to prevent damage to the fabric. Avoid chemical fabric softener as this can coat the cotton fibres with a water-resistant residue, reducing the sheets’ natural breathability and moisture-wicking properties.

Avoid overloading the washing machine to ensure a thorough clean and rinse. It’s also a good idea to wash sheets in a separate load from clothing. Buttons, zippers or tough materials can damage, stretch or even tear large items like bedsheets.

A Berry Organic Cotton Duvet Cover Set by Bed Threads, neatly folded and stacked on a light wooden stool against a plain white wall.
A folded Berry Organic Cotton Duvet Cover Set by Bed Threads, including pillowcases, is stacked on a wooden stool with labeled text highlighting each GOTS certified item against a plain white background.
The Berry Organic Cotton Duvet Cover by Bed Threads, in bright pink, is neatly folded on a wooden floor against a plain white wall.
The Berry Organic Cotton Duvet Cover Set by Bed Threads, made from GOTS-certified organic cotton, adds vibrant color and comfort to any room with its bright pink hue—perfect for elevating your space.
A crisp bed features the Berry Organic Cotton Duvet Cover by Bed Threads and two matching pillows, set on a dark wooden floor against a plain white wall.
A minimalist room features a neatly made bed with the Bed Threads Berry Organic Cotton Duvet Cover and two pillows. Above, a small blue square artwork hangs on the light wall, while a modern lamp sits in a niche to the left.
A sunlit bedroom features a bed with vibrant pink and light purple bedding, including the Bed Threads Butterscotch Organic Cotton Fitted Sheet, wooden nightstands, a white lamp, a mug, and a large window overlooking greenery and blue sky.
A neatly made bed features the Bed Threads Berry Organic Cotton Duvet Cover with mauve pillows, tan sheets, and a light wooden frame. Beside it sits a round table with lamp and cup, blue modern chair, and textured abstract artwork above.
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  • A Berry Organic Cotton Duvet Cover Set by Bed Threads, neatly folded and stacked on a light wooden stool against a plain white wall.
  • A folded Berry Organic Cotton Duvet Cover Set by Bed Threads, including pillowcases, is stacked on a wooden stool with labeled text highlighting each GOTS certified item against a plain white background.
  • The Berry Organic Cotton Duvet Cover by Bed Threads, in bright pink, is neatly folded on a wooden floor against a plain white wall.
  • The Berry Organic Cotton Duvet Cover Set by Bed Threads, made from GOTS-certified organic cotton, adds vibrant color and comfort to any room with its bright pink hue—perfect for elevating your space.
  • A crisp bed features the Berry Organic Cotton Duvet Cover by Bed Threads and two matching pillows, set on a dark wooden floor against a plain white wall.
  • A minimalist room features a neatly made bed with the Bed Threads Berry Organic Cotton Duvet Cover and two pillows. Above, a small blue square artwork hangs on the light wall, while a modern lamp sits in a niche to the left.
  • A sunlit bedroom features a bed with vibrant pink and light purple bedding, including the Bed Threads Butterscotch Organic Cotton Fitted Sheet, wooden nightstands, a white lamp, a mug, and a large window overlooking greenery and blue sky.
  • A neatly made bed features the Bed Threads Berry Organic Cotton Duvet Cover with mauve pillows, tan sheets, and a light wooden frame. Beside it sits a round table with lamp and cup, blue modern chair, and textured abstract artwork above.
£105.00 - £145.00 £99.75 - £137.75
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Drying cotton sheets

After washing, cotton sheets can be air-dried or tumble-dried. If the weather is sunny, dry and a little breezy, cotton sheets will generally dry very quickly.

If you need to line dry your cotton sheets inside, hang them in a well-ventilated space with constant airflow to help them dry quickly and prevent a musty smell from setting in.

Most types of cotton sheets can also be put in the tumble dryer on a low or medium heat setting.

Tumble-drying cotton sheets can leave them a little more wrinkled than line-drying. Thankfully, this wrinkling can be avoided by taking the sheets out while they’re still a little damp to let them air dry the rest of the way.

A close-up of a neatly made bed showcases the Bed Threads Espresso & Vanilla Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle. The fitted sheet hugs the mattress, while the flat sheet and organic cotton layers drape casually over one corner.
A close-up shows a “Bed Threads” label on the Vanilla Organic Cotton Fitted Sheet. The cream-colored percale fabric appears smooth and slightly gathered along a stitched seam, highlighting its all-natural, organic cotton material.
A neatly made bed features the Vanilla Organic Cotton Flat Sheet by Bed Threads, slightly rumpled, with two matching pillows, all in light beige against a plain white wall.
A modern bedroom features a wooden ceiling, large windows with city views, and a bed dressed in the Bed Threads Vanilla Organic Cotton Flat Sheet. A round paper lantern hangs above, while a small side table with a lamp and vase sits nearby.
A cozy bedroom with a wood-paneled accent wall, a bed made up with the Vanilla Organic Cotton Flat Sheet by Bed Threads in peach, two pendant lights, a gold round nightstand, and a vase of white tulips.
A neatly made bed features the Bed Threads Vanilla Organic Cotton Flat Sheet, paired with matching duvet and pillowcases. Four pillows and a lightly rumpled duvet create a relaxed yet refined look against a light beige wall.
A cozy bedroom features dark green bedding, Bed Threads Moss Organic Cotton King Pillowcases on matching pillows, black nightstands with lamps, a vase of flowers, and natural light. Textured beige walls and a light rug add warmth.
A cozy bedroom features a neatly made bed with dark brown bedding, cream sheets, and Bed Threads Espresso Organic Cotton Pillowcases. A floor lamp, dark chair, and sheer white curtains complete the softly-lit minimalist space.
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  • A close-up of a neatly made bed showcases the Bed Threads Espresso & Vanilla Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle. The fitted sheet hugs the mattress, while the flat sheet and organic cotton layers drape casually over one corner.
  • A close-up shows a “Bed Threads” label on the Vanilla Organic Cotton Fitted Sheet. The cream-colored percale fabric appears smooth and slightly gathered along a stitched seam, highlighting its all-natural, organic cotton material.
  • A neatly made bed features the Vanilla Organic Cotton Flat Sheet by Bed Threads, slightly rumpled, with two matching pillows, all in light beige against a plain white wall.
  • A modern bedroom features a wooden ceiling, large windows with city views, and a bed dressed in the Bed Threads Vanilla Organic Cotton Flat Sheet. A round paper lantern hangs above, while a small side table with a lamp and vase sits nearby.
  • A cozy bedroom with a wood-paneled accent wall, a bed made up with the Vanilla Organic Cotton Flat Sheet by Bed Threads in peach, two pendant lights, a gold round nightstand, and a vase of white tulips.
  • A neatly made bed features the Bed Threads Vanilla Organic Cotton Flat Sheet, paired with matching duvet and pillowcases. Four pillows and a lightly rumpled duvet create a relaxed yet refined look against a light beige wall.
  • A cozy bedroom features dark green bedding, Bed Threads Moss Organic Cotton King Pillowcases on matching pillows, black nightstands with lamps, a vase of flowers, and natural light. Textured beige walls and a light rug add warmth.
  • A cozy bedroom features a neatly made bed with dark brown bedding, cream sheets, and Bed Threads Espresso Organic Cotton Pillowcases. A floor lamp, dark chair, and sheer white curtains complete the softly-lit minimalist space.
£50.00 - £80.00
4.5
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars
77 Reviews
Add to Cart

How to fold cotton sheets

Folding your cotton sheets properly before storage can be a major space (and time) saver.

While you might feel the temptation to bundle your sheets into the linen closet and shut the door (out of sight, out of mind, right?), consider these sheet-folding tips.

They’ll increase your closet space and help your sheets stay crisp and neat while stored away, and most importantly, keep matching sheet sets together.

Folding flat sheets

Folding flat sheets is most easily approached as a two-person team, but it's also straightforward if you’re on your own. Here’s how to do it solo:

  • Lay the flat sheet on a large surface such as a dining table or clean floor. You can also fold flat sheets while holding them, if they’re not too large.
  • Fold in half lengthwise and align the edges.
  • Fold in half again horizontally, then twice more, alternating directions.
  • If your storage space is narrow, you may need to fold again to make a narrow rectangle shape.

Make sure to tuck in any loose edges so your flat sheet stays neatly folded. Then store your folded sheets flat in a drawer or linen closet.

A neatly folded stack of Bed Threads Crisp White Organic Cotton Sheet Set rests on a light wooden stool against a plain white wall.
A neatly made bed features the Bed Threads Crisp White Organic Cotton Sheet Set, with labeled pillowcases, a fitted sheet over the mattress, and a flat sheet draped across the bed, all set against a plain white wall.
A neatly made bed features the Bed Threads Crisp White Organic Cotton Sheet Set with two white pillows and slightly rumpled sheets, set against a plain white wall. The bedding looks clean and inviting.
A cozy bed features the Bed Threads Crisp White Organic Cotton Sheet Set and pillows on a wooden platform in a warmly lit, wood-paneled room, complemented by a modern paper lantern lamp in the corner.
A bed made with the Bed Threads Aegean & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle is set against a white paneled wall, accented by abstract art above. A side table nearby holds a plant and books. Pillows complete the inviting look.
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  • A neatly folded stack of Bed Threads Crisp White Organic Cotton Sheet Set rests on a light wooden stool against a plain white wall.
  • A neatly made bed features the Bed Threads Crisp White Organic Cotton Sheet Set, with labeled pillowcases, a fitted sheet over the mattress, and a flat sheet draped across the bed, all set against a plain white wall.
  • A neatly made bed features the Bed Threads Crisp White Organic Cotton Sheet Set with two white pillows and slightly rumpled sheets, set against a plain white wall. The bedding looks clean and inviting.
  • A cozy bed features the Bed Threads Crisp White Organic Cotton Sheet Set and pillows on a wooden platform in a warmly lit, wood-paneled room, complemented by a modern paper lantern lamp in the corner.
  • A bed made with the Bed Threads Aegean & Crisp White Organic Cotton Bedding Bundle is set against a white paneled wall, accented by abstract art above. A side table nearby holds a plant and books. Pillows complete the inviting look.
£125.00 - £185.00
Add to Cart

Folding fitted sheets

Folding fitted sheets is a little more complicated than folding flat sheets. The shaped corners and elastic fitting can make it difficult to align the edges neatly.

But don’t worry! Ingenious linen lovers have developed clever methods to make it easy. Here’s how it works:

  • Lay the fitted sheet pocket-side up on a flat surface (with fitted sheets, a flat surface is essential for getting a neat fold).
  • Smooth out each corner to bring them to as much of a point as you can. Rounded corners are ok.
  • Fold in half lengthwise, aligning the corners, and smooth out to make a square shape.
  • Fold again in alternating directions until the bundle is the desired size and shape for your drawer or closet.

Once folded, store the fitted sheet on top of the folded flat sheet to keep them together.

There are plenty of other ways to fold flat and fitted sheets. But whichever method suits you, proper folding will keep them neat in storage, prevent deep wrinkles from setting into the fabric and keep them in good shape for longer.

Two dark green Moss Organic Cotton Duvet Pillowcases by Bed Threads, inspired by GOTS certified bedding, are stacked on a simple wooden stool against a plain white wall with a wooden floor visible.
A close-up of Bed Threads' Moss Organic Cotton Pillowcases (Set of Two) in dark green, showing a white fabric label, highlights their breathable design for a comfortable night's sleep.
A bed with Bed Threads’ Moss Organic Cotton Pillowcases (Set of Two), dark green sheets, a green duvet, and a plain white wall backdrop.
A minimalist room features a neatly made bed with dark green bedding and two Bed Threads Moss Organic Cotton Pillowcases, centered against a plain white wall on a wooden floor.
A bed topped with the Moss Organic Cotton Flat Sheet by Bed Threads features green pillows on a beige rug. Pink nightstands with books, a lamp, and a plant flank the bed. Above, rectangular artwork decorates the white wall.
A woman with long brown hair sits barefoot on a bed with green bedding and Moss Organic Cotton King Pillowcases by Bed Threads, smiling as she looks out a bright window. A vase of flowers rests on the bedside table.
A cozy bedroom features dark green bedding, Bed Threads Moss Organic Cotton King Pillowcases on matching pillows, black nightstands with lamps, a vase of flowers, and natural light. Textured beige walls and a light rug add warmth.
A cozy attic bedroom with slanted wooden walls, a bed dressed in Bed Threads’ Apple Organic Cotton Flat Sheet, two modern lamps—one on the headboard and one wall-mounted—and sunlight filtering through a window.
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Add to Cart 11 Add to Wishlist View Wishlist
  • Two dark green Moss Organic Cotton Duvet Pillowcases by Bed Threads, inspired by GOTS certified bedding, are stacked on a simple wooden stool against a plain white wall with a wooden floor visible.
  • A close-up of Bed Threads' Moss Organic Cotton Pillowcases (Set of Two) in dark green, showing a white fabric label, highlights their breathable design for a comfortable night's sleep.
  • A bed with Bed Threads’ Moss Organic Cotton Pillowcases (Set of Two), dark green sheets, a green duvet, and a plain white wall backdrop.
  • A minimalist room features a neatly made bed with dark green bedding and two Bed Threads Moss Organic Cotton Pillowcases, centered against a plain white wall on a wooden floor.
  • A bed topped with the Moss Organic Cotton Flat Sheet by Bed Threads features green pillows on a beige rug. Pink nightstands with books, a lamp, and a plant flank the bed. Above, rectangular artwork decorates the white wall.
  • A woman with long brown hair sits barefoot on a bed with green bedding and Moss Organic Cotton King Pillowcases by Bed Threads, smiling as she looks out a bright window. A vase of flowers rests on the bedside table.
  • A cozy bedroom features dark green bedding, Bed Threads Moss Organic Cotton King Pillowcases on matching pillows, black nightstands with lamps, a vase of flowers, and natural light. Textured beige walls and a light rug add warmth.
  • A cozy attic bedroom with slanted wooden walls, a bed dressed in Bed Threads’ Apple Organic Cotton Flat Sheet, two modern lamps—one on the headboard and one wall-mounted—and sunlight filtering through a window.
£25.00
4.5
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars
77 Reviews
Add to Cart

Where to store cotton sheets

You’ve done all this work to clean and fold your sheets properly — but you’re not done yet. Ensure you store your sheets in the proper place so that they stay fresh and ready to use the next time you change your bedding.

Aim for a storage space that is:

  • Away from sunlight
  • Free of moisture and humidity
  • Well-ventilated
  • Free from odours. Smells can be absorbed into sheets over time.

While linen closets usually tick all of these boxes, in a pinch, you can also store away sheets in drawers or storage containers under the bed.

Aegean Organic Cotton European Pillowcases (Set of Two)
Aegean Organic Cotton European Pillowcases (Set of Two)
Aegean Organic Cotton European Pillowcases (Set of Two)
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  • Aegean Organic Cotton European Pillowcases (Set of Two)
  • Aegean Organic Cotton European Pillowcases (Set of Two)
  • Aegean Organic Cotton European Pillowcases (Set of Two)
£30.00
4.5
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars
77 Reviews
Add to Cart

What not to do

Not all storage solutions are equally suitable for bed sheets! Incorrect storage, dampness or the presence of certain chemicals in the storage space can damage cotton sheets.

Here is what to avoid:

  • Storing sheets in plastic tubs: this restricts airflow, traps moisture and can leave the sheets smelling musty.
  • Storing sheets without folding: this can wrinkle and crease sheets, take up more space than necessary and reduce airflow.
  • Storing sheets in cardboard or unpainted wood: this can cause acidic compounds to leach into the sheets, resulting in damage, yellowing and discolouration.
  • Storing sheets in a plastic bag: this can trap and retain moisture, leading to mildew.
  • Storing different cotton sheets too closely together: this may cause colours to bleed.
A bed with the Bed Threads Apple Organic Cotton Duvet Cover and two matching pillows sits against a white wall on a dark wooden floor.
A neatly made bed features the Apple Organic Cotton Bedding Set by Bed Threads in light green. Labels highlight the pillowcases, fitted sheet, and percale duvet cover. The room has white walls and a wood floor.
A neatly made bed with the Bed Threads Apple Organic Cotton Duvet Cover and two matching pillows in light green, set against a white wall on a dark wooden floor.
A neatly made bed features the Bed Threads Apple Organic Cotton Bedding Set with two matching pillows and a percale duvet cover, all in light green, displayed against a white wall.
The Apple Organic Cotton by Bed Threads features a light green percale weave with soft folds and gentle wrinkles, adding subtle shadows and texture to this breathable bedding.
A neatly made bed with the Bed Threads Apple Organic Cotton Duvet Cover sits in a minimal, modern bedroom with light wood floors and walls, a small round nightstand, a lamp, and a lit candle.
A neatly made bed with the Bed Threads Apple Organic Cotton Duvet Cover and two dark green pillows rests against a plain light wall. A pink side table with a small vase and minimal lamp stands beside the bed on a concrete floor.
Save 10%
Add to Cart 15 Add to Wishlist View Wishlist
  • A bed with the Bed Threads Apple Organic Cotton Duvet Cover and two matching pillows sits against a white wall on a dark wooden floor.
  • A neatly made bed features the Apple Organic Cotton Bedding Set by Bed Threads in light green. Labels highlight the pillowcases, fitted sheet, and percale duvet cover. The room has white walls and a wood floor.
  • A neatly made bed with the Bed Threads Apple Organic Cotton Duvet Cover and two matching pillows in light green, set against a white wall on a dark wooden floor.
  • A neatly made bed features the Bed Threads Apple Organic Cotton Bedding Set with two matching pillows and a percale duvet cover, all in light green, displayed against a white wall.
  • The Apple Organic Cotton by Bed Threads features a light green percale weave with soft folds and gentle wrinkles, adding subtle shadows and texture to this breathable bedding.
  • A neatly made bed with the Bed Threads Apple Organic Cotton Duvet Cover sits in a minimal, modern bedroom with light wood floors and walls, a small round nightstand, a lamp, and a lit candle.
  • A neatly made bed with the Bed Threads Apple Organic Cotton Duvet Cover and two dark green pillows rests against a plain light wall. A pink side table with a small vase and minimal lamp stands beside the bed on a concrete floor.
£155.00 - £225.00 £139.50 - £202.50
Add to Cart

Other tips for storing cotton sheets

How to store cotton sheets long-term

Storing cotton sheets long-term is easy but also requires some thoughtful care to keep them fresh and clean.

  • Store cotton sheets in linen storage bags to keep the dust away.
  • Ensure the storage space is ventilated.
  • Line linen closet shelves with acid-free tissue paper to prevent fabric discolouration.

Store sheets in pillowcase

If you don’t have dedicated linen bags, consider storing your folded sheets in a matching pillowcase.

This allows the fabric to breathe, keeps dust out and conveniently bundles the whole set to grab and go.

Don’t overpack storage spaces

Avoid overpacking storage spaces or piling folded linens too high, as this can reduce air circulation and lead to mildew growth. Some types of cotton weaves are also delicate and can easily be compressed or misshapen by packing them too tightly.

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