How to Fold a Fitted Sheet

Plus, they often get tangled, hence achieving a perfectly rectangular fold without wrinkles and creases becomes challenging. Yet, the quest for a neatly organized closet is more than just a pursuit of order in your household. It’s a space and time-saving journey that can extend the useful lifespan of your sheets, ensuring your fitted sheets stay in good condition for longer.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about getting your fitted sheet folded, including the simple tricks to follow, and ways you can maintain neatly folded fitted sheets. Let’s dig in!

What Are Fitted Sheets?

A fitted sheet is a unique type of bed sheet designed to fit snugly over the mattress. Unlike a flat sheet, a fitted sheet comes with rounded elasticated edges that stretch easily and wrap tightly around the mattress corners. This unique design secures your sheet in place, even when you toss and turn throughout the night. In addition to protecting your mattress, fitted sheets offer an added layer of plushness and comfort as you sleep.

Why Learn How to Fold Fitted Sheets?

Learning how to fold your fitted sheets can bring numerous benefits to your daily life. These include but not limited to:

Keep Linen Wrinkle-Free

Properly folded sheets are less likely to form wrinkles and creases over time, ensuring a smooth and appealing look when tucked in your bed. This also helps prevent damage to the delicate fabric, extending your sheet’s lifespan. 

Save Storage Space

Properly folded sheets allow you to benefit the most from your storage space. You’ll have more room for other essentials, such as blankets, towels, and pillows. Your linen closet will also look neat and well-arranged. After all, nobody wants to be greeted by balls of crumpled sheet messes in the closet. 

Simplify Your Laundry Routine

Learning and mastering the art of folding your sheets helps streamline your laundry routine, making it much easier and fun to store your bed sheets and keep your house tidy. What’s more, you’ll have an easier time locating your sheets, which saves you time whenever you want to change your bedding.

Our Step-By-Step Guide to Folding Fitted Sheets

Folding a fitted sheet isn’t as hard as you might have thought. With the right procedure, you can have neatly folded and organized sheets within minutes. Our step by step guide should help you get started.

Step 1: Find the Elastic Corners

Start by locating the 2 top corners of your fitted sheet and placing your hands inside each of the corners so that the long side of your sheet is across your body. The elasticated side should be facing you as you put your hands into the corresponding corners. Consider holding your sheet lengthwise while standing, especially if you’re folding a king-size fitted sheet.

Step 2: Invert the Corners & Connect them

With both of your hands inside your sheet’s pockets, use your fingers to grab the inside of the third corner and invert it. For left-handed folks, we recommend starting with the left-hand corner. While holding onto the inverted sheet pockets with your fingers, locate the inside of the corresponding corner and carefully fold the inverted elastic corner into it. At this point, you should notice the corner seams touching.

Step 3: Flatten Out Your Fitted Sheet

Lay your fitted sheet on the bed, floor, or any flat surface and use your hands to straighten the edges, making sure that there aren’t any wrinkles or large creases. At this point, you should be facing an L-shaped fitted sheet. Next, move to the opposite side and repeat procedure 2, forming a U shape, with the elasticated side running lengthwise at the top. 

Step 4: Invert the Elastic Corners & Connect them Again

Once again, place your hands into the fitted sheet pockets. You should notice that it now has 2 layers. Locate the elastic edges, pinch them with your fingers and flip as you had previously done in procedure 2. Take the flipped side and join it with the adjacent corner, putting one pair over the other. This should bring you back to the L shape, but with 4 thick layers. 

Step 5: Push Out the Air

At this point, all the 4 elastic corners should be stacked together. If yours are not, use your hands to rearrange them and smooth the fitted sheet up up to the last corner as much as possible. We recommend pushing out excess air to make the next procedure much easier.

Step 6: Smooth Out the Wrinkles

Lay the fitted sheet on a flat surface and use your hands to smooth out any wrinkles. Next, fold the straight edge of your sheet toward the elastic sides halfway. 

Step 7: Fold Your Fitted Sheet Into a Long Rectangle

Once again, fold the sheet over to the adjacent flat edge. You should notice a narrow rectangle, depending on the size of the fitted sheet. Here, you can now continue with the process as you would with a flat sheet, folding your fitted sheet in doubles or thirds, based on the available space in your closet. 

An Alternative Method of Folding Fitted Sheets, Just in Case!

While this procedure employs a similar technique as the above-mentioned steps, it makes quicker and simpler work of the folding process, with less attention to detail. If you’re eager to save time than make perfectly crisp folded fitted sheets, consider using this method. 

Step 1: Lay the Sheet on a Flat Surface

Lay your fitted sheet flat on a large flat surface with the elastic four corners facing up. If you don’t have a big table top, you can spread the bed sheet out on the mattress, or on a clean dry floor. Thirds lengthwise 00

Step 2: Match Up the Corner Seams

Turn the 2 bottom elastic corners inside out and tuck the adjacent corners into each other, matching up the corner seams together. Carefully neaten the elastic corners and edges, with the sheet inside out,to create a nice rectangle. 

Step 3: Fold the Sheet in Half

Now, fold your sheet in half, ensuring the elastic band is covered with the opposite side. 

Step 4: Fold the Sheet into Thirds

Next, fold the sheet once more this time into thirds to form a long neat rectangle. 

Step 5: Fold the Sheet into a Square

Lastly, fold your fitted sheet again into thirds from right to left, or vice versa if you’re left-handed, to create a perfect square that fits neatly in your linen closet. 

How to Make a Fitted Sheet/Pillowcase/Flat Sheet Bundle

Before storing your folded fitted sheets, you can opt to make a bundle with your pillowcase and top sheet. That way, your closet will look more organized and you’ll have an easier time finding your bedding whenever you want to make your bed. 

Below is a quick guide to making a neat pillowcase, fitted and flat sheet bedding bundle:

1. Fold your fitted sheet into a triangle using our step by step guide. 

2. Next, lay your flat sheet on a flat surface before folding it into a rectangle. Make sure the shape matches the size of the folded fitted bed sheet.

3. Fold your pillowcases half lengthwise or to the same width as your flat and fitted sheets.

4. Now, place the folded fitted sheet on your bed with the flat sheet on top of it and then stack your pillowcases on top. 

5. Lay an extra pillowcase on a flat surface with the opening facing you and then place your stacked sheets at one end of your pillowcase. 

6. To create the bundle, carefully tuck the stacked bedding into the extra pillowcase and ensure its open end is neatly folded over your bundle. You can now store your bundled bedding in your shelf or closet.

Additional Tips for Folding Your Fitted Sheets

Want to make the most of your folding techniques? Consider using these tips for proper care. 

Fold Right After Washing

Use a Low Heat Setting

Most homeowners usually fall in the trap of using a high heat setting to get their fitted sheets folded and stored sooner. While going high heat can save you some time, you want to refrain from this habit to protect the elasticity of your sheets. Over time, using a dryer on a high heat setting can damage the sheets making them fit improperly on your mattress or even rip off completely. 

Find a Large Flat Surface

No matter which procedure you use to fold your fitted sheets, you’ll need a large flat surface to finish the procedure. This plays a very crucial role in creating neat folds and crispy smooth finishes. A table, tidy bed, and even a clean floor can get the job done. 

Use the Buddy System

Feel free to ask for assistance to get the task done. Remember, not everyone’s hands can reach all the elastic corners easily, so enlisting the help of another person can really come into handy. That said, have another person stand while facing you and mirror your steps until the bed sheet is small enough for you to take over.

Leave Room to Breathe

How you fold and store your fitted sheets really matters. Overstuffing your shelf can prevent air circulation, resulting in musty-smelling fitted sheets. Consider storing your folded sheets with some room to breathe to keep them smelling fresh and clean. 

Fight Odors

We also recommend adding a personalized fragrance to the linens to keep them smelling nice when not in use. Here, you’ve got a wide range of options to apply from herbal pouches and reed diffusers to cotton washcloths with drops of essential oils. All these alternatives can elevate your bedroom experience and help maintain your folded fitted sheets when in the closet. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Folding Fitted Sheets

When folding your sheets, it’s crucial to avoid these mistakes to achieve a well-organized result:

Rushing the Folding Process

You want to take your time to smooth out your fitted sheet and align the elastic corners properly. In addition to causing wrinkles and creases, speeding up can only result in uneven folds, making your fitted sheets harder to stack in your linen closet and store neatly. Plus, if you move too quickly, you can stretch out the elastic edges or tear the sheet’s fabric, especially if it’s still warm from your dryer. 

Incorrect Alignment of Corners

Proper alignment ensures that your fitted sheets maintain their shape and don't stretch out of proportion. This also helps save storage space, as correctly aligned elastic corners create neatly aligned flat folds that take up less space in the closet. Plus, sheets that are folded neatly are easier to spread out when making the bed.

Folding on Uneven Surfaces

You also want to avoid folding your fitted sheet on uneven surfaces as this can lead to inconsistent folds which can, in turn, affect your sheets appearance and storage efficiency. What’s more, wrinkles and creases can easily form, which results in a less crisp and organized fold. That said, to ensure a successful fold, make sure you use a flat surface, such as a countertop or table. This will not only help you achieve consistent folds but also keep your sheets in top shape.  

How to Maintain Neatly Folded Sheets

Maintaining neatly folded fitted sheets needs a combination of proper folding tactics and storage practices. Below are some tips that can help you keep your fitted sheets in pristine condition. 

Store Them to Prevent Unfolding

Properly storing your sheets plays a pivotal role in preventing unfolding and maintaining their quality. That said, you want to keep your folded fitted sheets in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and mildew growth. Plus, don't overcrowd your linen closet as this can cause them to wrinkle and in turn lose their neat fold. 

Use Sheet Straps or Clips

We also recommend using sheet straps and clips to keep your sheets from unfolding easily every time you store them in your closet. If your folded sheet tends to come undone quickly, these tools can secure them tightly and make storage more manageable.

Storing Fitted Sheets

Having a well-organized linen closet isn't just about getting the folds right. You need to ensure that they're as far away from bugs, moisture, and dust as possible. Plus, they should be well-ventilated to prevent mold and mildew growth. 

Some of the best ways to achieve all these include:

• Using bedsheet organizers to store them neatly

• Storing your sheets in wrapped bundles

• Storing your sheets in stacked sets

• Storing them in groups 

If you don't have a linen closet, we recommend draping your fitted sheets through a clothes hanger instead and hanging it in your wardrobe, or purchase dedicated foldable storage containers.

Features of a Good Fitted Sheet

While personal preference is crucial to consider, there are other factors to keep in mind when choosing the best sheet for your sleep needs and budget. Below are some crucial elements to look out for:

Material

Different materials offer different levels of texture and softness, so you want to consider this factor before settling for a certain material. Materials also affect how your sheets perform when it comes to temperature regulation. If you're a hot sleeper, you may want to settle for breathable fabrics, such as cotton and Tencel. On the other hand, those in colder climates should be better off with flannel and microfiber fitted sheets. 

Thread Count and Quality

Thread count is basically the total amount of individual yarns in each square inch of fabric. 

So what exactly does thread count have to do with fitted sheets? Plus, does a high thread count guarantee a high quality sheet? 

For long-staple cotton sheets, high thread counts significantly boosts the sheet's strength and softness. However, a cotton sheet that has been woven from weaker fibers is going to be less smooth and less durable, irrespective of thread count. 

A linen sheet set usually has a thread count that ranges from 80 to 150 (which is quite low for cotton sheets). Bamboo sheets, on the other hand, have a thread count of 250-350. Keep in mind that non cotton-based bedding rarely advertises their thread count, so you may want to use other factors to determine whether a product is of high quality or not. 

Elasticity

Elasticity ensures that your fitted sheets conform snugly to your mattress, delivering a smooth and tight fit, ideal at keeping your sheet from slipping off at night. Plus, this makes it easier to spread the bed, as the elasticated sides help the sheet grip the edges with minimal effort. It's also worth noting that well-fitting sheets are made to maintain their unique shape over time even after regular use and cleaning. 

Warranty

Like most sleep products in the market, fitted sheets come with warranty periods that protect them against structural damage. You want to check and confirm whether your brand stands behind their sheets’ durability and performance with a clearly stated warranty period. This will give you peace of mind, knowing that your investment is protected and meets quality standards. 

Certifications

If you're an eco-conscious shopper, you want to check whether or not your sheet is certified. Some of the most common certifications you'll find in most organic sheets include the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and the OEKO-TEX. If your sheet is GOTS-certified, it means it features at least 95% organic fiber and it hasn't been manufactured with bleach or formaldehyde. 

The Top Fitted Sheets We Recommend

Folding your sheets and storing them neatly on the shelf gives most homeowners a great sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. However, you don't just want to waste your time and energy with just any regular, low quality sheet. The world-class fitted sheets we recommend from our top brands come in many different sizes and fabrics to suit your style and make your folding and sleeping experience as easy and comfortable as possible. 

PlushBeds Organic Cotton Sheets

Choosing the PlushBeds Organic Cotton Sheet comes with many benefits for sleepers of different preferences and needs. For starters, they're made of GOTS-certified organic cotton, meaning that they meet the most stringent environmental and social criteria. They also don't contain toxic chemicals, making them better both for your overall well-being and the environment. Another reason why we like PlushBeds Organic Cotton sheets is they are soft and silky. You won't have to wait for multiple washes before they soften. 

With a PlushBeds fitted sheet, you'll enjoy a cool and silky texture right from day one that will make you feel like you're sleeping on the clouds. Plus, these lightweight sheets are sturdy and durable. They feature long cotton fibers that can resist shrinking and normal wear and tear to ensure your fitted sheets stay as beautiful as new even after many years of use. Hot sleepers also have a reason to smile, thanks to the breathability and moisture-wicking nature of the PlushBeds Organic Cotton Sheet. Overall, these fitted sheets combine quality, sustainability, and comfort, making them solid picks for eco-conscious shoppers in need of restorative sleep. 

Molecule Percale Performance Sheets

The Molecule Percale is another perfect pick for eco-conscious buyers. According to the manufacturers, its Tencel Lyocell material is processed through an environmentally friendly manner to appeal to eco-conscious shoppers. The sheet is also known for its breathability, thanks to its percale weave that maintains cool temperatures all night long. The blend of cotton and Tencel deliver both comfort and durability with Tencel Lyocell adding a bit of softness and moisture-wicking properties. However, if you don't like the silkier feel of most sateen sheets, then Molecule's crisp and matte finish might suit you best.

The Final Tuck

Now that you have an idea of what folding fitted sheets entails, feel free to use any of the above-mentioned methods to prevent wrinkling and save on space for additional storage. No matter the technique you decide to employ, the point is to get the elasticated sides on the inside of your final fold to keep them from ruining those crispy lines when your sheets are sitting on the closet. Don't give up just easily if you don't get it done the first time. With some practice, you'll soon be folding with finesse, turning those once dreaded elasticated sheets into tidy stackable bundles.