How to Fold a Sweater

Folding sweaters properly is an important skill that can help keep your sweaters looking their best. Proper folding techniques prevent stretching, pilling, and wrinkling of delicate knits. With some simple techniques, you can fold sweaters of any style – from chunky knits to fine merino wool. We will walk through the steps to neatly and effectively fold sweaters of all kinds.

Why Fold Sweaters Properly

Folding sweaters with care has several benefits:

• Prevents stretching and distortion – Sweaters can easily lose their shape if hung for long periods or folded carelessly. Proper folding minimizes stress on the fibers.
• Avoids pilling – Folding loosely can cause the fibers to rub together, creating little balls or pills on the surface. Folding neatly prevents this abrasion.
• Reduces wrinkling – Folding properly smooths out the knit and minimizes chances for wrinkles to set in. This keeps sweaters looking their best.
• Saves closet space – Folding sweaters into compact rectangles takes up less precious closet real estate compared to hanging.
• Makes sweaters portable – Compact folded sweaters are easier to transport in luggage versus delicate hanging items.
• Protects embroidery or embellishments – Careful folds help shield any decorative accents from snags or abrasion damage.

Materials Needed

Folding sweaters neatly doesn’t require any special tools or materials, just a flat surface:

• A clean, flat folding space like a table or bed
• The sweater to be folded

Some other optional but helpful materials include:

• Tissue paper or acid-free wrapping paper to wrap folded sweaters before storage
• Garment bag or other breathable covering for sweater storage
• Storage containers like boxes, bins, or shelves to store folded sweaters

Folding Steps

Follow these steps to properly fold sweaters of all styles and materials:

1. Check Sweater Material

• Identify if the sweater contains natural fibers like wool, cotton, cashmere or synthetic fibers like polyester, acrylic, rayon, etc.
• Natural fiber knits are more prone to stretching out. Take extra care not to pull or distort the shape.

2. Inspect Sweater and Shake Out

• Examine sweater for any flaws, stains, or holes needing repair.
• Remove any lint, pet hair, or crumbs by gently shaking out the sweater.

3. Lay Flat

• Place the sweater face down on a clean, flat surface. Smooth out any wrinkles.

4. Straighten and Align Seams

• Check that the seams of the sleeves, shoulders, and sides are properly aligned.
• Gently tug sweater edges to straighten and make square.

5. Fold in Half

• Take the bottom edge and fold up to align to the head opening.
• Smooth with hands to create a neat crease.

6. Fold Sleeves In

• Take the left sleeve and fold inward, lining up the sleeve cuff to meet the side seam.
• Repeat for right sleeve, aligning cuff to side seam.

7. Fold in Half Again

• Take the top open edge and fold down to meet the bottom folded edge.
• Press with hands to make a straight center fold.

8. Flip Over

• Turn the folded sweater over so the folded edges are now on the bottom.
• The front of the sweater should face up.

9. Fold Sides In

• Take the left side and fold inward to meet the center fold.
• Repeat for the right side, lining up the edges.

10. Fold Up from Bottom

• Start at the bottom edge and make even folds upward until only about an inch remains.
• Press each fold with hands to compress the sweater.

11. Finish Top Fold

• Make the final fold upward and press to close the top edge.
• The sweater should now be a neat rectangle.

12. Store Properly

• Place tissue paper on top of the folded sweater before storage to prevent dust.
• Store in breathable garment bag or archival box.
• Avoid plastic bins or bags that prevent airflow and can discolor.
• Store in cool, dry spot away from direct light.

Tips for Folding Common Sweater Styles

Folding techniques may need slight adjustments to work best for the following popular sweater styles:

Cashmere Sweaters

• Use extra care and avoid over-stretching delicate cashmere fibers.
• Fold on a cushioned surface like a towel to minimize friction.
• Store cashmere sweaters in breathable garment bags to prevent pilling.

Oversized and Baggy Sweaters

• Don’t over-compress bulky knits. Leave a bit looser to retain shape.
• Fold arms in before bringing sides inward to contain excess fabric.
• Store flat in wide, shallow bins to avoid distortion.

Turtlenecks and Mock Necks

• Smooth out any bunching fabric around the neck before folding.
• Be cautious not to stretch the neckband when folding up from bottom hem.
• Leave a bit of extra room around the neck area before final top fold.

Sweaters with Collars or Zippers

• Fold any collars in before bringing in side edges to prevent twisting.
• Check zippers are fully closed, with pulls lined up evenly to avoid snagging other fabrics.
• Fold gently over zipper teeth to keep their shape. Consider adding pressing cloth or tissue paper to protect zipper.

Sweater Vests

• Without sleeves, bring narrowed side seams in toward center fold right after folding in half.
• Continue folding up in tidy halves without excess fabric.
• Store with other similarly-shaped folded garments like button downs.

Cropped and Boxy Sweaters

• Align hem evenly when folding in half first before bringing in sides.
• Contain shorter dimensions by promptly folding up in compact halves.
• Store flat in wide, shallow bins to prevent stretching out shape.

FAQ

How often should you fold sweaters?

• It’s best to fold sweaters after every wear to maintain their shape and appearance. Leaving sweaters hanging or draped for prolonged periods can cause fibers to stretch out.

Where should you store folded sweaters?

• Ideal storage is in breathable spaces like garment bags, acid-free tissue paper in boxes, or open sweater drawers. Avoid non-breathable plastic containers or bags. Store in cool, dry locations away from direct light.

Should you fold wool sweaters?

• Yes, folding is better than hanging for wool sweaters. Fold gently to not over-stretch the fibers. Store properly in breathable, climate controlled spaces to prevent moths or other damage.

Can you fold cashmere sweaters?

• Cashmere and fine wool sweaters require very gentle folding. Fold on a cushioned surface, avoid pulling, and store flat in breathable garment bags. Improper folding can pill and distort delicate cashmere.

How do you fold a sweater without stretching it?

• Lay the sweater face down and align seams neatly first. Make precise folds without over-tugging edges. Compress each fold gently using your hands instead of pulling or pressing aggressively to avoid fiber distortion.

What is the best way to store folded sweaters?

The ideal storage method is in a garment bag or archival box with acid-free tissue paper to prevent dust and maintain the sweater fold. Storing flat in the original folded shape prevents stretching and pilling. Maintain proper climate control and avoid direct light exposure.

Conclusion

Knowing how to properly fold sweaters helps them maintain their appearance and extend their lifespan. With some basic materials and using careful, precise techniques, you can neatly fold sweaters of all styles. Pay attention to the fiber content and handle delicate fabrics gently. Use acid-free tissue or garment bags for storage. Keeping sweaters folded flat when not in use will keep them looking their best for many seasons.