Not Baskets, Not Ladders: The Stylish Blanket Storage Solution You Can Find At The Thrift Store

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Just as you're about to give up on finding anything cool at the thrift store, you spot it: that beat-up vintage suitcase, with remnants of the faded hotel travel stickers still clinging to its sides. Such a discovery is like the Holy Grail if you're looking for a place to stash home accessories, like blankets. As with baskets, this unique blanket storage idea allows you to repurpose an item in a practical way. And like the blanket ladder, the old suitcase is a space saver. When not in use, it can be tucked under a coffee table or in a corner. However, the retro piece really shines when you're working with certain styles, like vintage travel-themed decor, because it lends authenticity to the motif.

Vintage suitcases tell the story of travel's evolution. The suitcase was born in the late 1800s. It was easier to carry than a steamer trunk, though its materials were similar. Retro suitcases often sport handsome leather or wicker exteriors that hide sturdy frames. Additionally, many were made to be waterproof, thanks to the influence of steamship travel, which required luggage to be buttressed against the potential ravages of the sea and saltwater air. If business suits were once safe in them, your blankets should be, too. Prices vary, depending on what the luggage is made of, though it's possible to find a hardback retro suitcase for as little as $15 on sites like eBay or at a local thrift store.

Before you put your blankets inside the vintage suitcase, give it a thorough inspection. Cosmetic issues, like crackles in the leather, may not affect the structural integrity of the piece, but you need to make sure. Check for bedbugs or any serious mold infestations, which could end up damaging your blankets. You should also vacuum the interior of the bag with a brush nozzle. And if it smells of mildew, you may also need to sprinkle some baking soda inside to soak up any musty smells. Vacuum it a second time (if you use baking soda), and then ready it for display.

A single suitcase lying on the floor doesn't make a proper display. You'll elevate its look by lifting it up off the floor. Stacking your favorite vintage suitcase on top of one or two more pieces of luggage is an easy way to dress it up. Leave the top case in the pile open. Fill it with some of your nicer blankets. Hide your extra blankets in the bottom pieces of luggage to take advantage of the additional storage space.

You can also try putting it on a set of pin-style legs. Or a foldable suitcase rack: If you go this route, look for the kind that you see in hotels at the end of the bed. This set-up makes your blanket display look purposeful instead of like an overstuffed suitcase that you haven't yet put away after a trip.

Unlike the closet where your throws are hidden from sight, this blanket storage idea encourages you to show off your throws,blankets, and afghans. You'll make the most of this feature by including blankets that fit your decor theme. For example, if you're expanding on the travel theme inspired by the suitcases, tuck a few throws inside that feature images of maps, airplanes, and other travel motifs, like the MIEPOS Vintage Nautical World Map Throw Blanket. 

Additionally, blankets featuring different textures – for example, a smooth velour or a knotty knitted number — create more depth and warmth. Don't forget to factor in the texture of the suitcases when you're planning this arrangement. Here's how that might look. If the suitcase is covered with leather, then add rolled-up quilts made of linen, wool, or velveteen.

Finally, consider adding patterns to the mix. If the rest of your room's decorating scheme is all about pattern drenching, include your blanket storage in design plans, too. This is an especially good option to go if you've been fortunate enough to find a vintage suitcase with a logo or a luxe pattern, like a vintage Louis Vuitton. Make this the main pattern against which all of the other patterns on the blankets will be set.