How to Store Bedding: Keep Sheets, Duvets, and Pillows Fresh in Storage

Properly stored bedding stays fresh, wrinkle-free, and ready to use — while poorly stored bedding develops musty odors, attracts dust mites, and comes out of storage needing a wash before it can be used. This guide covers how to store every type of bedding correctly, from seasonal duvets to spare sheet sets.

What You'll Need

• Febreze Fabric Refresher Spray (23.6 fl oz) — lightly mist bedding before storing for a fresh scent that lasts
• Nutricost Baking Soda (2 lbs) — place an open box near stored bedding to absorb moisture and odors
• Breathable cotton storage bags or pillowcases (for sheet sets)
• Vacuum storage bags (for seasonal duvets and bulky items)
• Cedar blocks or lavender sachets (natural moth and pest deterrents)
• Clean linen closet or storage area

The Golden Rule: Always Store Clean and Completely Dry

Never store bedding that isn't completely clean and dry. Even slightly damp bedding develops mildew in storage — and the smell is very difficult to remove. Always wash and dry thoroughly before storing, and ensure bedding is at room temperature (not warm from the dryer) before folding and storing.

Storing Sheet Sets

The Pillowcase Trick

The easiest and most organized way to store a sheet set:

1. Fold the fitted sheet, flat sheet, and one pillowcase neatly
2. Place all folded items inside the second pillowcase
3. The entire set is now in one compact bundle that's easy to grab and impossible to lose pieces of

Folding a Fitted Sheet

1. Hold the sheet lengthwise with your hands in the two top corners, inside out
2. Bring one corner to meet the other, tucking one inside the other
3. Repeat with the bottom two corners
4. Lay flat and fold into thirds lengthwise, then fold into a neat rectangle

Storage Location

• Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated linen closet
• Avoid storing in plastic bags — plastic traps moisture and causes yellowing and musty odors
• Use breathable cotton bags or open shelves
• Keep away from direct sunlight which fades fabric over time

Storing Duvets and Comforters

Seasonal Storage

For duvets being stored for a season:

1. Wash and dry completely before storing
2. Lightly mist with Febreze Fabric Refresher and allow to dry completely
3. Fold loosely — avoid tight compression which can damage fill over time
4. Store in a breathable cotton storage bag or the original packaging if it was breathable
5. Never use vacuum storage bags for down duvets — compression damages the down clusters permanently
6. Vacuum storage bags are acceptable for synthetic duvets for short-term storage

Storage Location for Duvets

• Store in a cool, dry location with good airflow
• Avoid attics (temperature extremes) and basements (humidity)
• A linen closet or under-bed storage in a breathable bag is ideal
• Place cedar blocks or lavender sachets nearby to deter moths and pests

Storing Pillows

• Store clean, completely dry pillows in breathable cotton pillowcases or bags
• Never store in plastic bags — moisture gets trapped and causes mildew
• Store flat or standing upright — avoid stacking heavy items on top which compresses the fill
• For long-term storage, place a cedar block nearby to deter pests

Preventing Musty Odors in Storage

• Place an open box of baking soda on the linen closet shelf to absorb moisture and odors — replace every 3 months
• Add lavender sachets or cedar blocks to naturally freshen the storage area and deter moths
• Leave the linen closet door slightly ajar occasionally to allow air circulation
• Avoid storing bedding near strong-smelling items (cleaning products, shoes) that can transfer odors

Refreshing Bedding After Storage

Bedding that's been in storage for a season may need refreshing before use:

• Tumble in the dryer on low heat with wool dryer balls for 15–20 minutes to freshen and refluff
• Air outside on a dry day for 1–2 hours
• If it smells musty, wash before use

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I store bedding in vacuum storage bags?

Vacuum bags are fine for synthetic duvets and pillows for short-term storage. Never use them for down or feather items — the compression permanently damages the down clusters, destroying the loft and insulating properties. Use breathable cotton bags for down.

How long can I store bedding before it needs washing again?

Clean, properly stored bedding in a breathable bag in a cool, dry location stays fresh for 6–12 months. If it develops any musty smell when taken out of storage, wash before use.

Why does my stored bedding smell musty?

Musty smell in stored bedding is caused by moisture — either the bedding wasn't completely dry before storing, or the storage location is too humid. Always store in a cool, dry, ventilated location in breathable bags, and place baking soda nearby to absorb ambient moisture.