Written by Angela Reviewed by Daniel

Most People Fold Their Clothes Wrong – This Method Changes Everything

Let’s face it, folding clothes is one of those chores we all do without thinking too much about it. You fold, you stack, you shove it into a drawer, and hope it doesn’t explode like a Jack in the box when you open it next.

But what if I told you you’ve been doing it all wrong? Yep, there’s a better way, and it might just blow your mind. Say hello to the KonMari Method, a folding game changer that’ll transform your messy drawers into an organised paradise.

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How To Fold Clothes Using The KonMari Method

If this is the first time you’ve ever heard about the KonMari folding method, you’re in for a treat. Later on we’ll explain who invented the KonMari folding method.

But for now let’s get straight into how to fold your clothes using this unique method. The KonMari folding method is all about making your clothes stand upright. Sounds weird, right? But trust me, it’s a total space saver. Here’s how you nail it:

Folding T-Shirts Using The KonMari Method

You should lay the T-shirt flat with the front facing down, fold each side into the middle, then fold the neckline down to the hem. But leave a gap at the edge of the hem.

Then fold it in ½ twice, you then have a neat little rectangle that can stand up. That’s the secret to this system, you stand your folded clothes in an upright position.

Sounds weird, but it saves space in your cupboards and allows you to see all items at a glance. This means your T-shirts stay unwrinkled and are easy to find.

Folding Hoodies, Sweaters and Long Sleeved Shirts

Lay the item on a flat surface face down, fold one side into the centre, then fold the sleeve to fit inside the rectangle created with the fold. Fold the sleeve back level with the edge of the rectangle and repeat on the other side.

Then fold the garment in ½ lengthwise remembering to leave that slight gap at the hem. Then fold it in ½ twice like the T-shirt and stack in the standing position.

Trousers & Shorts

Lay them flat, fold one leg over the other, then fold up from the hem to the waistband (don’t forget to leave a slight gap at the edge).

Fold in ½ then ½ again.

Your trousers and shorts can now be stacked vertically in your wardrobe or cupboard.

Dresses & Skirts

Similar deal. Lay the item flat, fold the sides in, and then fold up from the bottom (don’t forget to leave a gap at the edge). Then fold in ½ twice.

Your dresses and skirts can now be stacked vertically which saves space and keeps them from getting wrinkled in the cupboard. It’s like magic but for clothes.

Seriously, once you’ve cracked this method, opening your wardrobe will feel like stepping into a shop. Fancy, right?

Underwear

Flatten your underwear out, fold the crotch up to the waistband (always leaving a slight gap at the edge), then fold both sides in.

Next, you need to fold the crotch to the waistband again, and you’re sorted. These can also be stacked vertically which saves space and makes it easier to find the underwear you want in a hurry.

Socks

If your socks are loose around the top it’s usually caused by rolling them into tight balls. Rolling socks together in a ball causes the elastic tops to stretch.

Using the KonMari method saves your socks from this and saves you from always getting told to pull your socks up. You need to lay one sock on top of the other, fold them in ½ and then fold them in ½ again.

They’ll now stand up, be easy to find and stop getting stretched.

What Is The KonMari Method?

Now we’ve seen how to fold clothes the right way to prevent creases and save space, let’s look at where this system came from.

The KonMari Method was created by Marie Kondo, aka the queen of tidying up. Her philosophy? Keep only the stuff that makes you happy (she calls it “sparking joy”) and sort out your space so it actually works for you.

If it doesn’t make you smile or do its job properly, it’s time to say, “Thanks, mate” and send it on its way, whether that’s to charity or the bin.

Marie Kondo reckons this approach doesn’t just tidy your home; it’s like therapy for your brain. A tidy house, a tidy mind, you know?

Here’s a word from Marie kondo herself;

“This process in turn helps us identify our values and reduces doubt and confusion in making life decisions. If we can have confidence in our decisions and launch enthusiastically into action without any doubts holding us back, we will be able to achieve much more. In other words, the sooner we confront our possessions the better. If you are going to put your house in order, do it now.”

Marie Kondo

Why Your Clothes Deserve Better

Under the KonMari method there are 5 categories which are;

Clothes
Books
Papers
Sentimental Items
Miscellaneous Items (she calls them Komono)

Clothes are the first thing Marie Kondo tackles in her method, and it makes sense. You wear them every day, they’re easy to sort, and let’s be honest, your wardrobe probably needs a serious clear out. Here’s how to get started:

Keep It Real
If it fits, looks banging, and you’d actually wear it, keep it.
Pass It On
If it’s not your vibe or doesn’t fit, it doesn’t “spark joy” and you should donate it to someone who’ll love it.
Bin It (or Recycle)
If it’s knackered, holey, or just beyond saving, let it go.

According to Marie Kondo, the best way to sort the clothes in your “keep” pile is to handle them and see if they give you as much joy as they did when you first bought them. If they do, they can stay, if not, give them the elbow.

When you’ve got your “keep” pile sorted, it’s time for the fun part: folding. And no, we’re not just talking about your usual slapdash folding. This is folding 2.0.

Tips for Handling Sentimental Clothing Items

person checking clothes in laundry basket

We all have that jumper from uni or the scarf your gran knitted that you just can’t let go of. That’s fine, Marie Kondo isn’t about forcing you to chuck everything out. Here’s how to deal with those special pieces:

Use A Memory Box

If it’s too precious to wear but you don’t want to get rid of it, pop it in a memory box. This way, it’s safe and still part of your life and you can see it anytime you like without it cluttering up your wardrobe.

Repurpose It

Got a favourite T-shirt that’s seen better days? Turn it into a cushion cover or frame it as wall art. Sentiment meets style.

Easy Hacks For Beginners

Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t stress. Start small and build up. Here are some quick hacks to ease you in:

One Drawer At A Time
Don’t try to tackle your entire wardrobe in one go. Start with a single drawer and go from there.
10 Minute Tidy
Set a timer for 10 minutes and see how much you can get done. You’ll be surprised.
Celebrate The Wins
Finished your sock drawer? Treat yourself to a cuppa or a biscuit. Small victories deserve recognition.

Before & After Inspiration

Picture this: your drawer goes from looking like a jumble sale to a Pinterest worthy masterpiece. All it takes is a bit of effort and the KonMari Method.

If you’re feeling brave, take some before and after snaps. You’ll love seeing the transformation, and it might just inspire your mates to have a go too.

Your Turn To Give It A Go

So, what do you reckon? Ready to ditch the chaos and turn your wardrobe into a joy sparking masterpiece? Give the KonMari Method a go and see if it changes the game for you.

And hey, if it works, drop us a comment or share a snap of your newly tidy drawers. Let’s spread the tidy vibes!

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