INTERIORS : A Perfect Place to Air the Heirloom Linens

An old-fashioned linen closet is reminiscent of a time when linens were a part of gracious living. Now, with renewed interest in heirlooms, the linen closet is the perfect place to show off--or to store--Granny’s damasks and Aunt Emma’s embroidered pillow shams.

In an older home, the linen closet is usually near the main bathroom, but any closet will do. Or, lacking a closet, consider an antique linen press or armoire.

“The key requirements are a dark, dry and reasonably well-ventilated area,” says Ric Barbatelli, who with his wife, Stephanie, owns a Madison Avenue linen shop in New York.

“Moisture and sunlight are both enemies of fine fabrics,” Stephanie Barbatelli says, “so avoid selecting either a damp basement or attic as a place to store linens.”

The Barbatellis, who live in a small apartment where closets are at a premium, store their linens in a small armoire.

No matter the space, it is easier if all the linens are in full view. If there is a light, so much the better. That way you won’t unfold a queen-size sheet when you’re looking for a single.

Aside from the efficiency of having everything in its place, wrinkle-free and ready to use, neat and tidy arrangements are satisfying as a decorative element. For the nicest look, bundle each set of sheets and towels with a ribbon or cording. Place the piles on the shelves by color.

Sweet aromas are a staple of the old-fashioned linen closet. Lavender is the traditional fragrance. However, any fragrance you like is fine. Sachets, pomanders or other containers filled with potpourri can supply the fragrance and can be refreshed with a few drops of essential oils when the aroma starts to fade. Do not allow the oils to come into direct contact with linens, however. They can stain.

Treated or painted wood can also lead to discoloration or deterioration of the fabric, so line wood shelves with paper or quilted padding. The padding lasts longer and looks prettier than shelf paper. Look for it in white and floral prints at housewares shops.

You can add a decorative fabric edging to the shelf to complete the look. Consider lace or ribbon from a fabric shop.

Stephanie Barbatelli suggests that keeping a small sewing kit in or near the linen closet so that when something needs repair it’s a simple matter to take care of it.

If linens are stored in a closet, they do not have to be wrapped, even if they are seldom used. If you do wrap them, do not use plastic, which can trap moisture and lead to mildew. Natural fiber materials such as cotton, linen and silk need to “breathe.” Instead, use acid-free tissue paper. That way, there is no danger of chemicals reacting with linen fibers to discolor or break them down, Stephanie Barbatelli says. Acid-free papers are available in closet shops and closet accessories departments.

Examine heirloom linens, such as baby christening gowns and rarely used table linens every year or so at least.

“Often, after a period of a year or more, especially in a humid climate, linens when not used can develop brown age spots,” Stephanie Barbatelli says. “These spots can be avoided easily with regular laundering. Periodic laundering keeps fabrics supple.”