How to Store Soft Furnishings So They Stay Like New

Soft furnishings—cushions, throws, blankets, bedsheets, curtains, and more—add color, texture, and personality to every room. But to keep them looking fresh and inviting, the way you store them matters almost as much as how you use them. With changing seasons, space constraints, and the natural desire to protect luxury and semi-luxury textiles, mastering storage is an essential home-care skill. Here’s your ultimate guide to storing soft furnishings so they stay like new—no matter how often you rotate or switch them out.

1. Why Good Storage Matters

Protects Fabrics: Prevents yellowing, dust build-up, odors, and insect damage.
Preserves Shape and Texture: Stops flattening, creasing, or “crunchiness.”
Keeps Pieces Ready: Ensures your favorite pieces are always guest-ready—no deep cleaning needed.

2. Clean Before You Store

Always store soft furnishings freshly laundered. Even a little dirt, oil, pet hair, or invisible sweat can cause stains or odors to set in during storage. Thorough cleaning also repels insects that might be attracted to everyday residues.

How to prep:

Wash or dry clean according to care instructions.
For cushions, vacuum thoroughly and spot clean stains.
Ensure all items are completely dry before storing to prevent mildew and odors.

3. Choose the Right Storage Containers

Short-Term (Seasonal Switches):

Woven baskets, fabric bins, or decorative ottomans work for easy-to-reach storage.
Avoid plastic for high-end fabrics unless it’s breathable (traps moisture and can cause odors).

Long-Term or Off-Season:

Use plastic bins with tight-fitting lids or vacuum storage bags for blankets and pillows. Line plastic containers with cotton sheets to allow air circulation and prevent static.
For especially delicate or luxury items, wrap in acid-free tissue paper and store in cotton bags or pillowcases.
Avoid overpacking boxes—leave “breathing space” to prevent creasing and fiber damage.

4. Ideal Storage Spots

Cool, Dry, and Dark: Prevents fading, heat damage, and dampness.
Elevated Off The Floor: Use shelves or closet organizers to keep bins off potentially damp or dirty floors.
Avoid Attics and Basements: If unconditioned, these spaces are prone to moisture and temperature swings. Use only if you have climate control.
Self-Storage: For long-term needs, consider climate-controlled storage units. These maintain consistent temperature and humidity, protecting fabrics from both mold and pests .

5. Smart Storage for Specific Furnishings

Throw Pillows and Cushions

Stack Vertically in Bins: Prevents squashing and keeps shape.
Wrap delicate or embellished pillows in acid-free tissue paper.
For everyday access, store in decorative baskets or storage ottomans near the bed or sofa.

Bedsheets, Duvets & Blankets

Fold loosely to allow air circulation—avoid compressing too tightly.
Store in cotton storage bags or linen closet shelves.
Stack by set or season (label with size/type if you have several).

Curtains & Table Linens

For expensive or heirloom fabrics, hang in breathable garment bags.
Store everyday pieces folded in a drawer with moisture absorbers or lavender sachets.

6. Pro Tips to Keep Everything Fresh

Add natural deodorizers: Place lavender sachets, cedar blocks, or moisture absorbers in bins to fight moths and keep a pleasant scent.
Rotate and Air Out: Every few months, open boxes and air out stored items on a dry, sunny day (but avoid strong direct sunlight for silks or bright colors).
Don’t Overcrowd: Give each piece room to “breathe” so fibers don’t compress.
For extra luxury, use perfumed linen sprays when folding and storing sheets.

7. What to Avoid

Direct plastic-on-fabric: Always line plastic containers.
Unwashed storage: Lingering stains, oils, and dirt can become permanent.
Damp or humid rooms: Major risk for mold and mildew.
Long-term compression: Avoid vacuum bags for months-long storage of down-filled or high-loft items—can ruin volume.