Forget Baskets: This Vintage Find Is A Smarter Way To Store Bathroom Towels

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A basket might seem like the perfect solution for bathroom towel storage. You simply have to roll the towels up, then pop them inside. But unless the basket has a cover, the clean towels are at risk of becoming dusty, especially if they aren't used for a period of time. Plus, they could possibly get damp from splashing water if the basket's kept in the bathroom. However, there's a clever alternative for towel storage you may not have thought of — a pie safe. That's right, this old-school piece of furniture that's similar to a cabinet can be repurposed for items other than sweet treats (including towels). In addition to being functional, pie safes are one of those vintage thrift store finds that make organizing beautiful.

So, what exactly was a pie safe used for? Beginning in the 18th century, people began using pie safes to store goods that were freshly baked. The food would stay protected from critters behind the piece's closed doors, which had holes for airflow purposes. Many times, the fronts featured patterned tin elements that added to their charm. A pie safe can help keep other things tucked away, too. While it's indeed a wonderful vintage alternative to a kitchen cabinet, there's no reason one can't escape the heart of the home. All you have to do is store bathroom towels on its shelves instead of desserts or tableware.

First, you'll need to track down a pie safe (aka a pie chest). Keep your eyes open at thrift stores, antique furniture shops, and estate sales. If you have online selling groups in your area, check to see if someone is looking to part ways with their old pie safe. Or, perhaps there's a beloved one in the family that's been needing a new home, which would make it even more special of a piece! Clean it up both inside and out. If the shelves look worn, you could always give them an upgrade with a covering like Ismoon's Vintage Peel and Stick Wallpaper. Consider studying up on some furniture painting tips if you want to give the outside a complete makeover.

Move your pie safe to a spot that would be convenient for grabbing towels. If you're dealing with a small bathroom, keep the storage piece in a different area, such as a hall or bedroom. Fold or roll your towels very neatly and place them on the shelves. Keep categories separated (like bath and hand towels) so everything is organized. If there's extra space, store other bathroom items, an extra shower curtain, bathmat, and a guest robe, in it as well. 

Close the pie safe's door, and it'll keep your bathroom towels out of sight, unlike if they were sitting in a basket. They should also stay cleaner since they're not out in the open being exposed to dust and other elements. If you don't want to give up on the idea of using baskets, place a couple of small ones inside the pie safe for hand towels and washcloths. Finally, complete the look by incorporating other pieces of vintage decor that complement your pie safe.