Neither Baskets Nor Shelves: The Thrift Store Find That Makes Great Blanket Storage

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If you're a blanket fiend, chances are it feels like they're multiplying in your home every which way you look. Maybe you've tried to stuff them into baskets or fold them onto shelves, but those solutions just aren't hitting the mark. If you head to your local thrift store, you may find an extraordinary storage item that can help with your blanket storage woes: a blanket cart. To be clear, that item doesn't exist by name, but rotating tiered storage carts sure do, and this storage technique will quickly make you realize why they're a better way to keep blankets organized. 

Many kinds of rolling carts can be used to help you store throw blankets, but the most charming versions have rounded compartments that swivel open, like this JAQ 4-Tier Rotating Storage Cart. Many people use these carts for storing vegetables, pantry goods, or bathroom supplies, but if the shelves are large enough, they can also work for blankets! For example, in a TikTok video shared by @homegirlkeeks, the creator showcased a $35 four-tiered shelf rotating basket she thrifted, revealing that it originally cost $179.99 at World Market. The cart was made of metal mesh, and the round, almost cage-like baskets were deep, spacious, and easily swiveled open. The creator discovered her cart was functional for storing many blankets in, but also doubled as a decor piece as well.

Turning this into a useful storage idea starts at the thrift store. Look for a round storage cart that has good structure, with tiered shelves that are wide enough for storing blankets. The depth and spacing matters between each shelf, too. If the tiered baskets are too shallow, then you might have trouble easily fitting multiple blankets in each one. The best find will be a cart made of metal mesh or other durable materials like bamboo. The wheels should move smoothly, especially if you plan to roll the cart around your home, but you can easily replace them if needed with a product like these Handsammu 3-inch Caster Wheels. If your cart is a little worn out, consider applying a primer and using a spray paint color of your choice in thin layers to make it look brand new.

This cart is a unique blanket storage idea and a genius hack to organize your blankets when you aren't using them. Each tier can be dedicated to types or fabrics, or thinner and thicker blankets. You can even roll them cinnamon-bun style so they look neat in the rounded baskets. With smaller blankets, you should be able to fold them normally into rectangles and layer them on top of each other. Instead of relying on baskets or shelves, you can use your rotating cart to wheel blanket storage in and out of any room. Bring it next to your favorite armchair when you're having a movie night or into the bedroom on colder nights. The top shelf can also be super versatile, as you can use it to hold snacks or drinks when you watch TV or style it with small plants and candles if you're leaving it in a living area.