How to Store Pillows in a Closet: Smart Tips for Clean, Cozy Bedding

Closets are often the go-to place for stashing extra pillows—but if you’re not storing them properly, you may find them flat, dusty, or even musty when it’s time to use them again.

The good news is that learning how to store pillows in a closet doesn’t take much effort. With a few simple tools and routines, you can protect your pillows and save space at the same time.

How to Store Pillows in Closet

When it comes to storing pillows in a closet, air circulation and cleanliness are key. You want to keep your pillows protected from dust, humidity, and insects, while also avoiding that “stale linen” smell that can build up in dark storage spaces.

Steps for Proper Pillow Storage:

1. Clean your pillows first – wash and dry thoroughly to remove dust, oils, and allergens that could linger during storage.

2. Make sure they’re completely dry before storing to prevent mildew. Even slight moisture trapped inside can lead to odor and mold over time.

3. Choose the right container:

   • Breathable cotton bags that allow air circulation while keeping dust out

   • Vacuum storage bags (for non-feather pillows) that reduce bulk and save shelf space

   • Clear plastic bins with ventilation holes that make identification easy while protecting from pests

4. Add freshness boosters:

   • Cedar blocks to naturally deter insects and absorb moisture

   • Lavender sachets to leave a subtle, clean scent in the fabric

   • Baking soda pouches to absorb odors over long storage periods

5. Label by room, season, or purpose to make swapping and rotating pillows effortless, especially around holidays or during deep cleans.

6. Place on higher closet shelves to avoid crushing from heavier items and to maximize airflow around stored pillows for longer-lasting freshness.

We keep all our seasonal pillows in the hall closet using breathable storage bags. After pulling them out for a holiday refresh, I’ll lay them out on our Puffy Cloud Mattress to re-fluff. That cool, breathable surface keeps everything feeling crisp and clean.

Best Containers to Store Pillows in a Closet

How to Prevent Musty Smells in Stored Pillows

Closets are enclosed spaces, which means odors can build up fast if you’re not proactive.

Freshness Tips:

• Always store dry pillows—moisture is the enemy.

• Tuck lavender sachets or cedar chips into each bag or bin.

• Clean closet shelves with vinegar or baking soda once per season.

• Avoid placing pillows directly against closet walls.

• Consider rotating stored pillows every 3–4 months.

Space-Saving Hacks for Closet Pillow Storage

Closets fill up fast, especially if you’re trying to store extra bedding. Try these storage tricks:

• Vacuum bags reduce bulk by up to 70% (great for synthetic fills).

• Store vertically in under-shelf baskets or stack neatly in bins.

• Use closet shelf dividers to separate pillow types.

• For guest pillows, place them inside decorative shams and store in view.

How to Store Throw Pillows and Decorative Pillows

Throw pillows often have delicate fabrics or embellishments, so handle them with care.

Storage Tips:

• Remove covers and fold them separately.

• Store inserts in cotton pillowcases.

• Avoid stacking heavy items on top of them.

• Use labeled containers by color or room.

And when paired with a Puffy Lux Mattress that stays clean, breathable, and dust-resistant, your bed will feel like a fresh start every single time.

Bonus Tip: Store by Season

If you use different pillows for summer and winter or for holiday decor, organize your closet like a seasonal rotation:

• Use color-coded bins or tags.

• Store off-season pillows toward the back.

• Create a checklist for refreshing linens each season.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to store pillows in a closet can save you time, space, and money. With the right containers, freshening techniques, and organization hacks, your pillows will always be ready when you need them—without that dreaded flat or musty feel.