How to Fold Hooded Sweatshirts

Hooded sweatshirts are a staple in many wardrobes—cozy, casual, and perfect for layering. But when it comes to storing them, these comfy garments can be a bit tricky. Have you ever found yourself struggling with bulky, uneven folds or a closet that looks like a hoodie explosion? If so, you’re not alone. Learning how to properly fold hooded sweatshirts can save you space, keep your closet organized, and help your favorite hoodie maintain its shape.

Why Proper Folding Matters

Folding your hooded sweatshirts properly isn’t just about aesthetics. When you take the time to fold them neatly, you prevent wrinkles and creases, which means your hoodie will look better when you wear it. Proper folding also saves space, whether in your closet, drawer, or suitcase and helps maintain the shape of the sweatshirt, ensuring it doesn’t get stretched out or misshapen.

Materials Needed

Before you start, make sure you have a clean, flat surface to work on. This could be a bed, a table, or even the floor. You’ll also need the hooded sweatshirt you want to fold. If you want to be extra precise, you can use a folding board, but it’s not necessary.

Step-by-Step Guide to Folding a Hooded Sweatshirt

Step 1: Lay the Hoodie Flat

Start by laying your hoodie face down on a flat surface. Smooth out any wrinkles or folds, making sure the sleeves are laid out straight and the hood is pulled up.

Step 2: Fold the Sleeves Inward

Next, take the sleeves and fold them inward across the back of the hoodie. The cuffs should meet near the center of the hoodie, with the sleeves lying flat and smooth. If your hoodie is particularly large or has long sleeves, you might need to fold the sleeves back on themselves to keep everything tidy.

Step 3: Fold the Hoodie in Half Vertically

With the sleeves folded in, take one side of the hoodie and fold it over to meet the other side. You should now have a long, narrow shape. Make sure the edges are aligned so that the hoodie is folded symmetrically.

Step 4: Fold the Hood Down

Take the hood and fold it down toward the center of the sweatshirt. This will create a more compact shape and help keep the hoodie folded neatly.

Step 5: Fold the Hoodie in Half Horizontally

Finally, fold the hoodie in half horizontally. It would help if you ended up with a square or rectangular fold that’s easy to stack or store. If done correctly, your hoodie will now be compact and wrinkle-free, ready to be placed in a drawer or on a shelf.

Alternative Methods of Folding Hooded Sweatshirts

If the traditional folding method isn’t quite working for you, there are other techniques you can try.

The KonMari Method

Popularized by Marie Kondo, the KonMari Method involves folding clothes into small, rectangular shapes that can stand upright in a drawer. For hooded sweatshirts, this involves an extra fold to ensure the hoodie is compact and able to stand on its own. This method is great for those who want to maximize drawer space.

Rolling the Hoodie

Another popular method, especially for travel, is rolling your hoodie instead of folding it. To do this, lay the hoodie flat, fold the sleeves in as described earlier, and then roll the hoodie up from the bottom. This method not only saves space but also minimizes wrinkles, making it ideal for packing in a suitcase.

Tips for Storing Hooded Sweatshirts

Proper folding is just the first step. How you store your hoodies also matters.

Stacking in Drawers

If you’re storing your hoodies in a drawer, stack them vertically rather than piling them on top of each other. This way, you can see all your hoodies at a glance and avoid disturbing the whole stack when you pull one out.

Hanging vs. Folding

While folding is the most space-efficient way to store hooded sweatshirts, hanging them is an option too. However, hanging can cause the hoodie to stretch out over time, especially if it’s heavy. If you prefer hanging, use padded hangers to help maintain the shape of the hoodie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make mistakes when folding and storing hoodies.

• Over-stuffing drawers: Cramming too many hoodies into a drawer can cause wrinkles and make it hard to find what you’re looking for.
• Not smoothing out wrinkles: If you fold your hoodie without smoothing it out first, you’ll likely end up with creases.
• Improper hood placement: If the hood isn’t folded properly, it can make the hoodie bulky and hard to store.

How to Fold Hooded Sweatshirts for Travel

When traveling, space is often at a premium. Folding hoodies for travel requires a bit more finesse.

Rolling Method

As mentioned earlier, rolling your hoodie is a great way to save space and minimize wrinkles. To roll your hoodie, follow the initial steps of laying it flat and folding it in the sleeves, then start rolling from the bottom up. This method works well for both packing in suitcases and stuffing into backpacks.

Using Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a traveler’s best friend. After folding or rolling your hoodie, place it in a packing cube to keep it compressed and organized. This method is especially useful if you’re packing multiple hoodies or bulky clothing items.

Maintaining Your Hooded Sweatshirts

Folding and storing your hoodies properly is only part of the equation. Taking care of them ensures they last longer.

Regular Washing and Care

Always follow the care instructions on the label of your hoodie. Regular washing and proper drying will keep your hoodie looking fresh and feeling cozy. Avoid high heat when drying, as this can shrink or damage the fabric.

Dealing with Wrinkles

If your hoodie does get wrinkled, you can fix it by lightly steaming it or hanging it in the bathroom while you take a hot shower. The steam will help release the wrinkles without the need for ironing.

Conclusion

Folding hooded sweatshirts may seem like a simple task, but doing it right can make a big difference in your closet organization and the longevity of your garments. Whether you prefer the classic fold, the KonMari Method, or rolling for travel, taking the time to fold your hoodies properly will pay off. Remember to store them in a way that makes sense for your space, and always take care of your hoodies to keep them looking their best.