How To Fold Fitted Sheets

Want to learn how to fold fitted sheets? The elastic on fitted sheets can make it difficult to fold them neatly, since the fitted sheet won't lay flat or form a rectangle without some careful coaxing. Use this fitted sheet folding method to tame even the most stubborn elastic, keeping your fitted sheets flat and your linen closet neat and tidy.

1. Hold the fitted sheet by one short edge. Take one corner of the short edge in each hand and hold the sheet so the top side faces you.
2. Place your right hand inside the corner of the fitted sheet. Push that corner inside out.
3. Fold the fitted sheet in half lengthwise by pulling the corner in your left hand over your right hand. Cover the other corner so that the elastic is even.
4. Bring the bottom edge of the sheet up, one corner at a time. Cover the two corners on your right hand with the other two corners, to fold the fitted sheet in half widthwise and the top corner on the pile is right-side-out.
5. Lay the fitted sheet down and flatten it. Create a "lip" with the elastic edges, folding them slightly over the edge of the folded sheet so the rest of the sheet will stay flat.
6. Fold the fitted sheet in thirds, so that none of the elastic edge is showing, to create a flat rectangle. Continue folding in half, thirds or quarters, until the fitted sheet is the same size as your folded flat sheets. Remember, fitted sheets that have elastic all around the edge, not just on the top and bottom, may need more coaxing to stay flat.