Fitted sheets are awkward because of their elastic corners, but with a simple tucking technique you can fold one into a neat rectangle. A tidy fold saves closet space and keeps your linens easy to sort.
What you'll need
- A fitted sheet
- A flat surface such as a bed or table
Step by step
- Hold two corners on one sideTurn the sheet inside out and slip a hand into the two corners of one short end, so each corner sits over a hand like a pocket.
- Bring the corners togetherFold one hand over the other so the corner in your right hand tucks neatly inside the corner in your left, or the reverse. The elastic edges should nest together.
- Gather the other two cornersReach down and pick up the remaining two corners the same way, then tuck them over the first pair so all four corners are stacked together.
- Straighten into a rectangleLay the bundle on a flat surface and smooth it out, tucking the elastic edge inward so the sheet forms a rough rectangle.
- Fold to sizeFold the rectangle in thirds or in half, then again, until it reaches the size you want for your shelf or storage bin.
Handy tips
- A flat surface like a bed makes the final folds much neater than folding in the air.
- Store the folded fitted sheet inside its matching pillowcase to keep each set together.
- Smoothing out wrinkles at each stage gives a flatter, tidier final fold.
FAQ
Why is a fitted sheet so hard to fold?
The elastic sewn around all four corners pulls the edges into curves, so it will not lie flat like a top sheet. Tucking the corners into each other tames those curves.
How do I keep the sheet from unfolding in the closet?
Fold it snugly, then tuck the whole set inside one of its matching pillowcases. This holds the fold and keeps the set together.
Does it matter which way I tuck the corners?
Not really, as long as each corner nests inside the next so the elastic edges line up. Consistency just makes the final rectangle neater.