Question:

How do you fold a fitted sheet?

Answer:

This seemingly mundane task can turn into a frustrating ordeal, considering the size of most sheets and those pesky gathered edges that keep them so nicely fitted to your bed.

For a crisp, clean look when storing, not to mention precious space saved by reducing the bulk of crumpled sheets to a simple creased fold, follow this step by step guide.

This method works best when you resist the temptation to fold in midair, and find a flat surface large enough to accommodate the item you're folding.

Step 1: Lay the sheet on a bed or a large table and fold in and smooth all the edges.

Step 2: Fold in half horizontally, sliding the top gathered end into the pocket of the bottom gathered end. If the sheet's sides are ungathered, lay them flat; if gathered, slide them in, too.

Step 3: Fold in half horizontally again.

Step 4: Fold the bulky end horizontally to the middle of the sheet.

Step 5: Then fold over the smooth end.

Step 6: Fold lengthwise in thirds, or to your desired size.

Kate Parker
Home Department