Guide to KonMari Folding

The KonMari folding technique is the brainchild of Marie Kondo, a Japanese tidying expert. The technique has come to be appreciated by “neat freaks” worldwide but it has also been embraced by those who enjoy the energy of positive spaces that are thoughtfully organised.

Below, we’ll lay out the basics of how you can practice Marie Kondo’s innovative folding methods on different clothing items. But first, let’s take a step back and scrutinise what KonMari folding is, exactly.

What Is KonMari Folding?

Whereas traditional folding methods focus on folding clothes flat so that they can be piled on top of each other, KonMari folding is a technique that folds items so that they stand upright and alongside one another. It also works on the premise that the more folds there are, the less wrinkled a garment will be when you are ready to wear it.

KonMari folding has the following additional benefits:

It saves tons of cupboard space
It ensures that all clothes are visible
It makes it easier to pull out the clothing from your laundry bag or laundry basket item you want to wear without disturbing the other garments
Clothes are kept in a better condition for longer

Marie Kondo’s objective is to grant clothes— from shirts to pants to underwear—the respect they deserve by ensuring they are touched, appreciated, and properly stored.

Rules to Keep in Mind When Applying the KonMari Folding Method

Before we demonstrate a few of the most popular KonMari techniques, let’s brush up on the basic rules:

The end goal is to achieve a small, folded rectangular shape
When folded properly, each item should be able to stand upright without support
The aim is to send positive energy and love through your palms as you fold
As a rule of thumb, fold by halves and thirds
Store folded garments vertically

The “HOW TO” KonMri Folding Guide

How to Fold Socks

Lay one sock flat on top of the other so that they pair up perfectly
Fold the toes inward about an inch from the top openings
Fold again so that your crease meets the new centre
Now, fold the pair in half so that they stand upright

How to Fold Underwear

Neaten underwear so that it lays flat
Fold the crotch upward so that it lies on the waistband
Fold in the sides so that they meet in the centre
Fold the crotch upward towards the waistband again (the underwear should now be able to stand upright)

How to Fold T-Shirts

Lay a T-shirt in front of you
Fold in the right side keeping the sleeve flat (the sleeve end should meet the shirt centre)
Fold back the sleeve halfway
Repeat 1-3 on the left side
Fold in the neckline downwards so that it lies an inch from the hem
Fold halfway (top to bottom)
Fold in half again (top to bottom) and stand the shirt upright

How to Fold Sweaters

Place the sweater flat in front of you
Spread the sleeves out
Fold in the right side keeping the sleeve straight out
Fold the sleeve over and down to create a triangle
Repeat 2-3 on the left side
Fold from the top downwards until the sweater can stand upright

How to Fold Jeans

Lay the jeans out so they are flat and spread out in front of you
Fold the left leg over the right
Fold in the piece of crotch that’s sticking out to the left to create a straight crease from top to bottom
Fold the legs over towards the waist (leave an inch of space)
Fold inward until the jeans can stand unsupported