How to Fold a Fitted Sheet

Learn how to fold fitted sheets with these step-by-step instructions.

Excerpted from Houseworks, by Cynthia Townley Ewer
Filed under: Organization

Fold the Sheet in Half

Fold the sheet in half, stacking all four corners on top of one another and encasing the folded sheet sides. The curved edges should be tucked down to create a (more-or-less) smooth rectangle.

Create a Long, Narrow Strip

Fold the sheet in half again to create a long, narrow strip. The tighter and smoother the folds, the less likely it is that the sheet will become wrinkled — or balloon to an enormous size in the linen storage area.

Make a Rectangle

Fold the strip in half, then (depending on the sheet size) in half or in thirds to make a compact — and wrinkle-free — rectangle. Match the fitted sheet with its flat partner (and any pillowcases), and tuck away neatly in the linen closet or linen storage area. If linens aren't in active use, refold them once or twice a year to avoid fiber damage along the creases.