How to Store Comforters and Other Bulky Bedding
Whether you’re swapping out your lightweight summer comforter for a heavier winter option or folding extra blankets to have close at hand when temperatures drop, proper storage ensures these bulky bedding items last for seasons to come. Protect your bedding investment with our storage tips for down or down alternative comforters, blankets, and duvet inserts—and learn to fold them properly with our easy four-step method.
Our Favorite Comforter Storage Ideas and Tips
The biggest priorities for comforter storage are providing room to breathe and preventing moisture. Without adequate air circulation, comforters and other bulky bedding will begin to smell musty. Whether you store comforters under the bed, in a closet, or in a drawer, make sure the space is cool and dry to prevent the growth of mold or mildew.
Linen Closet Storage Tips for Comforters and Bulky Blankets
A linen closet is often the best storage solution for blankets and comforters. The shelving allows the air to circulate and your bedding to breathe, keeping it fresh when not in use.
- Once it is folded, keep your comforter from unfolding on the shelf by tying it loosely with a ribbon or lassoing the bundle with a rope. For a cheerful touch, choose a colorful, coordinating ribbon that will lift your spirits every time you open the closet.
- Leave space on the shelves between each bedding item; tightly packed bedding inhibits airflow, leading to that stale, musty smell you’d rather avoid.
- Don’t stack anything heavy on top of down comforters or blankets, as it will crush the down and feathers, creating lumps and ruining the loft you love. If space is at a premium and stacking is essential, store down items on top.
Where and How to Store Comforters Without a Linen Closet
If you’re wondering how to store extra comforters and pillows without a linen closet, you need not worry. Your home likely has several dry spaces suitable for storing your bulky bedding.
- Under the Bed: If you’re storing a comforter under the bed, forgo the ribbon or rope you’d use in the linen closet, and opt for a breathable fabric bag that will keep your bedding from gathering dust while still allowing moisture to escape.
- In Functional Furniture: To store comforters in a deep dresser drawer, a trunk at the foot of your bed, or large storage bench, adjust your folding approach to create a bundle that matches the size of the space. Don’t stuff a down comforter or blanket to make it fit—you’ll ruin the natural loft.
- Hanging in the Closet: Those with extra closet space can hang comforters instead of folding them. Use heavy-duty hangers and leave plenty of space between to allow for airflow. Note: Comforters are more likely to gather dust when stored this way, so it’s best for those who change bedding frequently.
How to Fold a Comforter
Down and down alternative comforters and other bedding items are loved for their loftiness—the same thing that makes them tricky to fold and store. To make the task easier, follow these tried-and-true tips for how to fold a comforter, duvet insert, or blanket for storage so it doesn't lose its loft.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Folding a Comforter
Whether you’re folding a comforter, duvet insert, or bulky blanket, the steps are the same. Start with a freshly cleaned, completely dry comforter and lay it flat across your bed, on a clean floor, or on a large table. To minimize wrinkles, smooth the bedding between each step.
Starting on the long side, take two corners and fold the comforter across itself until you’ve reached about two-thirds of the total length, ensuring the edges are aligned.
Grab the opposite corners and fold the remaining third of the comforter back over the double layer you just created.
Adjust so each fold is equal, leaving you with one long, triple-layered rectangle.
Fold the short ends to the center, then fold the entire bundle in half.
Bonus Comforter Folding Hack: Fold bulky down or down alternative comforters and blankets fresh from the dryer. They’re easier to manipulate—and less likely to wrinkle—when they’re warm.
Use these practical tips and step-by-step instructions to simplify comforter storage. For more on bedding storage and other helpful advice, explore our other Guides.