Top Materials For Linen Closet Shelving You Need To Consider

Having a dedicated space to store your household linens is a definite luxury. From sheets and towels to tablecloths and various odds and ends like toilet paper rolls, the extra storage a linen closet affords can really help keep your home more organized. If, however, you've decided that your linen closet needs an upgrade and you're considering replacing the shelves, there are a few options available when it comes to choosing the best type of shelving material. Wood, laminate, and wire racks are among the three most commonly used materials for linen closet shelving systems. Each type of shelving material has its own set of pros and cons, so it's important to consider which type will offer the best solution for your particular needs.

The main points to keep in mind when picking out shelves for your linen closet are aesthetics, durability, the size and weight of items you intend to store, and what your budget is. You may also want to invest in a shelving system that's adjustable, as your storage needs may evolve over time. Additionally, the location of your linen closet should also be considered when picking out shelves, as a closet in the bathroom would be subject to higher humidity levels than a closet in a hallway or bedroom. Below, we're breaking down all the important things you should consider so that you can pick out the best shelving system that will turn your closet into a dream storage space.

If you're looking for the most aesthetic option, wood shelves are definitely at the top of the list. Not only can they give your closet a stylish look, they are more durable than laminate shelves and can withstand more weight. Solid hardwoods like oak, maple, and cherry are the ideal choices for shelving, since they are stronger than softer woods like pine. The biggest drawback for using wood is price, as it's more expensive than other materials. Also, since wood is porous, it can swell or even potentially rot if used in an area that's subject to high humidity. However, by properly sealing the wood, you can circumvent this issue. 

Laminate can also be considered an attractive shelving option, since it can be made to look like wood. It's important to note that laminate is an all-encompassing term for a shelf that has a laminate coating (usually melamine) applied to the surface, while the underlying shelf can actually be made of medium-density fiberboard (MDF) or particleboard. Laminate shelves are more affordable than wood and also resistant to moisture. On the other hand, they aren't as strong and tend to sag under the weight of heavy items.

Wire shelves are the most affordable shelving option if you're looking to refresh your linen closet on a budget. They're also great for spaces with high humidity, since they allow air to flow between items. Additionally, they're durable and easy to customize. As for the biggest drawbacks, they aren't as strong as wood shelves, they aren't the chicest option, and the metal racks can leave creases or wrinkles on your fabric items.