A good rule of thumb: keep each set together—the duvet cover, pillowcases, and flat sheet folded into a single bundle or packed inside the duvet cover. You pull out one item and you have everything. No need to search for matching pieces in different piles.
Fold the bedding immediately after it dries—the fabric is still slightly warm then, and it’s much easier to fold it without creases. Ironing isn’t necessary for satin and percale. If you fold the bedding immediately after drying, it will look presentable on the bed even without ironing.
A linen closet should have designated spots: winter sets on top or in the back, everyday seasonal sets in the middle, and spare sets at the bottom. If the closet is deep, it’s a good idea to label the shelves—especially when there’s a lot of linens and not all sets are in regular use.
What to check during spring cleaning: discoloration, wear along the seams, stretched-out elastic in sheets, and faded patterns. If a set is more than 3–4 years old and shows clear signs of wear, it’s better to replace it than to keep it as a spare. Bedding in poor condition isn’t comfortable or attractive, even if it’s technically still usable.