How to Fold a Fitted Sheet (Without Losing Your Mind)

Fitted sheets: we love sleeping on them, but folding them? That’s another story. If you’ve ever wrestled with a lumpy, crumpled mess trying to make it fit neatly in your linen closet, you’re not alone. But folding a fitted sheet doesn’t have to feel like a battle. With a few simple steps, you can master the technique — and finally stack your sheets like a pro.

Here’s a quick, easy guide to folding a fitted sheet the right way:

Step 1: Find the Corners

Start by holding the sheet lengthwise (the longer side) and slip one hand into each of the top corners. The sheet should be inside-out on your hands, so the seams face each other.

Step 2: Tuck and Flip

Bring your right hand over to your left and flip the corner on your right hand over the one on your left. Now both corners should be layered together on your left hand.

Step 3: Add the Bottom Corners

With the two corners still together, pick up a third corner (one of the bottom ones) and tuck it inside the layered top two. Repeat with the final corner. Now all four corners are stacked neatly together.

Step 4: Straighten and Flatten

Lay the sheet down on a flat surface like a bed or table. You’ll see a rough rectangle shape forming. Smooth out the edges, tucking the elastic in as you go to create clean lines.

Step 5: Fold into a Rectangle

Fold the sheet into thirds lengthwise first. Then fold it into a small, manageable rectangle or square, depending on your storage space.

Bonus Tip: Use a Folding Board

For an even sharper finish, you can use a folding board like the removable inserts from the Laundreasy Sorting Basket to guide your folds. Perfect edges, every time!

Why It’s Worth It

• Space-saving: Properly folded sheets take up half the space.
• Organization: A neat linen closet makes grabbing a set stress-free.
• Longevity: Folding neatly helps preserve the fabric’s shape and elasticity.

Mastering the fitted sheet fold takes less than a minute once you’ve practiced it a few times — and it makes a big difference in your laundry game. Next time you’re tempted to ball it up and shove it in a corner… give this method a try instead. You’ll thank yourself later!