Not Baskets, Not Cabinets: The Antique Container For Beautifully Storing Blankets

While blankets can make gorgeous decor, you may not want all of your blankets on display at once. Nearby storage solutions like a basket or cabinet, which offer a convenient way to keep your coziest but perhaps not as aesthetic blankets close by, aren't always the best choice. Baskets are an open storage solution that could present problems like dust and household debris collecting on exposed linens. Additionally, they may not be able to hold as many blankets as other organizers. On the other hand, cabinets can take up a large amount of floor space and may not suit your design style. Thankfully, there's a clever way to store blankets in plain sight without it looking cluttered, and it isn't your typical basket. 

Some folks have come to favor antique steamer trunks for stashing their favorite textiles. Steamer trunks are small to large antique wooden totes with a flat top, differing slightly from their dome-topped cousins. Meant for traveling, they got their namesake from the steamships people boarded. Today, they're a great vintage find that you could score in thrift stores or antique malls.

Prices could vary based on your location, but trunks on eBay sell for around $200, on average. Once you find a vintage steamer trunk, it can be beneficial to check the quality. Check for original hardware, ensure that the wood joints and panels are solid, and inspect the interior lining. In some cases, you might prefer to remove or replace torn or dingy interior fabrics.

Before you start using your vintage steamer trunk as a blanket storage solution, you'll likely want to clean it up. If the interior lining is damaged, stained, or holding onto a funny smell, you might need to remove or replace it. Additionally, many steamer trunks have a fabric lining on the outside, which can be damaged over the years. When restoring, it's typical to see the fabric removed and the wood beneath refinished instead. You may also need to use a gentle cleaner and a soft cloth to correct any tarnishing on fasteners and hinges. Avoid scrubbing, as that could ruin an aged patina. Be sure to clean up the wood, refinishing if needed, and deodorize the interior so the piece is suitable for your home.

Steamer trunks are a versatile piece of furniture, and there are several different ways to decorate with them while also stashing your blankets. Placing the trunk at the end of the bed could give your space charm while also being convenient for easy blanket access. You might also consider using the steamer trunk as a coffee table alternative with vintage charm that doubles as storage, able to hold your coffee table necessities and couch textiles at once. Thanks to the flat top, you could also set your trunk by the entry to act as a bench — simply toss a few pillows on top to complete the look.