How to fold a sweatshirt?

Folding a sweatshirt might seem like a simple task, but doing it properly can save a significant amount of space and keep your closet or suitcase organized. Whether you’re at home looking to maintain an orderly wardrobe or packing for a trip, knowing how to fold a sweatshirt efficiently is essential.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through different methods to fold sweatshirts that will help you conserve space while keeping your clothes neat and wrinkle-free. Plus, we’ll wrap up with a handy Q&A section to answer common questions about folding and storing sweatshirts.

Why properly folding a sweatshirt matters

Sweatshirts are bulkier than regular t-shirts and blouses, so if not folded correctly, they can take up much-needed space. Proper folding not only maximizes storage but also helps in keeping the fabric in good condition, preventing unnecessary creases and stretching. Learning how to fold a sweatshirt effectively means you can stack your clothes more neatly, fit more into a drawer or suitcase, and make everything easier to find when you need it.

Additionally, keeping your sweatshirts properly folded extends their lifespan. Over time, improper storage can lead to stretched-out cuffs, collars, and even damage to the fabric. By adopting one of the following folding techniques, you’ll ensure that your sweatshirts look great and last longer.

The basic fold: a simple approach

The most straightforward method of folding a sweatshirt is called the basic fold. This technique is easy and can be done in a few quick steps.

Steps:

1. Lay the sweatshirt flat: Place the sweatshirt face down on a flat surface, smoothing out any wrinkles.
2. Fold the sleeves inward: Fold each sleeve towards the middle, ensuring they are neatly aligned.
3. Fold in half: Take the bottom of the sweatshirt and fold it up to meet the collar. Smooth out the fabric to avoid wrinkles.
4. Tuck or stack: Depending on your storage space, you can either tuck the folded sweatshirt into a drawer or stack it neatly on a shelf.

The basic fold works well if you are storing your sweatshirts in a drawer, allowing you to stack them neatly.

The KonMari method: folding for visibility

The KonMari method, made famous by organizing consultant Marie Kondo, emphasizes folding clothes so they stand upright. This allows you to see all your items at once, reducing the need to dig through piles of clothes. Here’s how you can apply it to your sweatshirts:

Steps:

1. Lay the sweatshirt flat: Place it face down on a flat surface, smoothing out wrinkles.
2. Fold the sleeves inward: Bring both sleeves toward the middle, so the sweatshirt forms a rectangle.
3. Fold in thirds: Start by folding the bottom of the sweatshirt towards the middle, then fold the top towards the bottom. You should now have a smaller, rectangular shape.
4. Stand upright: Place the sweatshirt upright in your drawer or storage space.

This method is perfect if you have a dresser or drawer where you like to keep clothes visible and easily accessible. The KonMari method also keeps everything compact, making it a great option for organizing multiple sweatshirts.

Folding for travel: the roll-up method

When packing a suitcase, you’ll want to minimize wrinkles and maximize space. The roll-up method is ideal for travel, as it keeps your sweatshirt compact and wrinkle-free.

Steps:

1. Lay the sweatshirt flat: As with the other methods, start by laying your sweatshirt face down on a flat surface.
2. Fold the sleeves inward: Bring the sleeves toward the center.
3. Fold in half: Fold the bottom of the sweatshirt up to the collar.
4. Roll tightly: Starting from the bottom, roll the sweatshirt tightly until you reach the top. The tighter the roll, the less space it will take up in your suitcase.

Rolling your sweatshirt helps you fit more clothing into your bag and reduces the risk of creases.

The hoodie fold: handling sweatshirts with a hood

Sweatshirts with hoods, or hoodies, can be a little trickier to fold due to the added bulk. Here’s a method specifically for folding hoodies that will help keep them neat and manageable:

Steps:

1. Lay the hoodie face down: Spread out the hoodie on a flat surface with the hood flattened.
2. Fold the sleeves inward: Bring the sleeves towards the center to form a rectangle.
3. Fold the bottom up: Fold the bottom of the hoodie up to the middle, just below the hood.
4. Tuck the hood: Fold the hood down over the body of the hoodie. If you prefer, you can tuck the folded sweatshirt into the hood for extra neatness.

This method keeps the hoodie compact and ensures the hood doesn’t create extra bulk.

Storing Your folded sweatshirts

Once you’ve folded your sweatshirt using one of these methods, it’s essential to store them properly to maintain organization. Whether you choose to store them in drawers, on shelves, or even in storage bins, the key is consistency in folding and stacking. Here are a few storage tips:

• Use drawer dividers: These can help keep your sweatshirts neatly separated, especially if you’re using the KonMari method.
• Don’t overstuff your storage space: Overloading your drawer or shelf will make it difficult to keep everything neat, and it could also lead to wrinkling.
• Store by season: Keep your heavier sweatshirts toward the back or bottom during warmer months, and rotate them to the top as the weather cools.

FAQs

1. How can I avoid wrinkles when folding a sweatshirt?

To avoid wrinkles, ensure that you smooth out the fabric before folding. Take a few extra seconds to flatten any creases while folding each step. The roll-up method is particularly effective at preventing wrinkles when packing sweatshirts for travel.

2. Is it better to fold or hang a sweatshirt?

Folding is generally better for sweatshirts because hanging can cause the fabric, especially around the shoulders, to stretch over time. If you prefer hanging, use padded hangers to reduce stress on the material and avoid misshaping.

3. How can I save the most space when folding sweatshirts?

The roll-up method is the most space-saving folding technique, especially for packing. For drawer storage, the KonMari method allows you to maximize space while keeping all your sweatshirts visible and accessible.

4. How do I fold a sweatshirt for a drawer?

The best way to fold a sweatshirt for a drawer is by using the KonMari method. This technique keeps sweatshirts upright and easy to find. Simply fold the sweatshirt into a compact rectangle and stand it up inside the drawer for an organized look.

5. Can I fold a sweatshirt with a zipper differently?

Yes! For zippered sweatshirts, ensure the zipper is closed before folding. This makes the garment easier to handle and helps keep it compact. Follow the same folding methods outlined above, smoothing out the zipper area to avoid extra bulk.