Tired of stuffed drawers and overflowing closets? What if you could fit more clothes in less space, without the chaos?
Proper folding transforms more than appearances—it creates space where there is none, simplifies packing, and eliminates the battle with overstuffed drawers.
Here’s the good news: You don’t need fancy organizers or Marie Kondo-level skills to unlock hidden space in your closet. A few simple folds are all it takes. Let me show you how!
1. The Basic Space-Saving Fold (For Almost Everything)
This is your go-to: Let’s shirts, sweaters, and casual tops. Lay the item flat, fold the sleeves inward, and then fold in thirds vertically.
Roll it tightly or make a final horizontal fold for maximum space savings.
Why it works: Removes bulk, stacks neatly, and prevents wrinkles.
Bonus—it’s way faster than hangers.
2. The KonMarie Vertical Fold (For Drawer Domination)
Made famous by organizing guru Marie Kondo, this method lets you see every item simultaneously.
Fold clothes into small rectangles, then stand them upright in drawers.
Try it with Tank tops, jeans, and leggings. No more digging for your favorite shirt!
3. The Military Roll (For Travel & Tight Spaces)
This method is perfect for packing suitcases or maximizing cramped drawers. Lay the item flat, fold it in the sleeves, and tightly roll it from bottom to top.
Best for: T-shirts, pajamas, workout clothes. Rolls stay compact and resist unfolding.
Related Content: How to Fold Towels for Display Bathroom
4. The No-Bulk Sweater Fold
Bulky sweaters eat up space fast. Fold the sleeves back, then fold the shirt in half vertically. Finally, fold or roll horizontally to compress the thickness.
Pro tip: Store sweaters this way—never hang them (shoulders stretch out!).
5. The Jean Shortening Trick
Jeans take up so much room. Fold them in half lengthwise, then fold the legs up in thirds. They’ll stand upright or stack flat without bulk.
Game-changer for: Skinny jeans, denim jackets, chinos.
6. The Bra & Underwear Tuck
Bras should never be crumpled. Hook them together, tuck underwear inside the cups, and line them up in a drawer. This maximizes space while maintaining the garment’s structure.
Socks? Roll pairs together or use the “file” method (fold tops over to bundle).
7. The Towel Fold That Fits
Beach towels hog shelf space. Fold in thirds lengthwise, then roll tightly. They’ll stay compact and dry faster, too.
Use for: Bath towels, blankets, even fitted sheets (yes, it’s possible!).
8. The Outfit Bundle (For Faster Mornings)
Stack the top, bottom, and unit seam together, then roll or fold into one unit. Grab and go—no more frantic searching!
Ideal for: Workweek prep, gym clothes, kids’ outfits.
9. The Hanging Trick for Bulky Items
Can’t fold a puffer jacket? Zip it, kids it inside out, and then fold. The air can’t save insane space.
It works for winter coats, hoodies, and vests.
10. The “Why Didn’t I Do This Sooner?” Final Tip
Fold clothes as soon as they’re dry. This prevents “didn’t” and speeds up the whole process.
- Why this matters: they’re wrinkles (less ironing!).
- It takes 30 seconds vs. 5 minutes.
- Builds habit momentum.
- Try it: Next laundry day, fold straight from the dryer—feel the zen.
Final Thought About How to Fold Clothes to Save Space
Closet space isn’t about having more room—it’s about using what you have smarter. Start with just isn’t (the military role is changing for travel), and watch your space multiply.
Now go forth and conquer that drawer monster. You’ve got this!
(And if a sock goes missing? Blame the laundry gnomes. Even perfect folding can’t solve everything.)
