How to fold a fitted sheet without the cupboard chaos

White fitted sheet folded and ready for the linen cupboard

Fitted sheets are useful on the bed and awkward in the cupboard. The elastic corners make them hard to fold like a flat sheet, but a simple routine makes them much easier to store.

1. Start with the sheet inside out

Hold the fitted sheet lengthways with one hand inside each of the top two corners. The elastic edge should face you and the sheet should hang down in front of you.

2. Tuck one corner into the other

Bring your hands together and flip one corner over the other, so the two elastic corners sit neatly inside each other. Give the top edge a small shake to line the seams up.

3. Add the bottom corners

Pick up one of the lower corners and tuck it into the two corners you are already holding. Repeat with the final corner. You should now have all four corners nested together.

4. Lay it flat

Place the sheet on a bed or table. Smooth it into a rough rectangle, tucking the elastic edges in so they sit inside the shape rather than bulging out at the sides.

5. Fold into thirds

Fold one long side into the middle, then the other long side over it. Fold the sheet down into a smaller rectangle that fits your shelf or drawer.

Storage tip

Keep each fitted sheet with its matching duvet cover or pillowcases, especially if you rotate more than one bedding set. A calm linen cupboard makes changing the bed feel quicker.

Shop fitted sheets or read the fitted sheet buying guide.