How to Fold Towels

Folded towels store better, look neater, and take less space. The "right" method depends on your storage and preference.

Basic Fold (Standard)

Works for storage and everyday use.

1. Lay towel flat
2. Fold in thirds lengthwise (long sides toward centre)
3. Fold in thirds widthwise (short ends toward centre)
4. Result: Neat rectangle, approximately 25x35cm for bath towel

Pros: Compact, stackable, quick

Best for: Cupboards, shelves, everyday storage

Spa/Roll Fold

For display and guest bathrooms.

1. Lay towel flat
2. Fold in half lengthwise
3. Fold in half lengthwise again (long, narrow strip)
4. Roll tightly from one end
5. Place seam-side down

Pros: Elegant appearance, space-efficient

Best for: Display, baskets, guest bathrooms

Decorative Shelf Fold

For visible storage.

1. Lay towel flat
2. Fold in half lengthwise
3. Fold in thirds widthwise
4. Fold in half again
5. Position with folded edge facing out

Pros: Clean appearance on open shelves

Best for: Visible storage, display

KonMari (Vertical) Fold

Stores upright in drawers.

1. Lay towel flat
2. Fold in thirds lengthwise
3. Fold in half widthwise
4. Fold in thirds widthwise
5. Stand upright in drawer

Pros: See all towels at once, prevents bottom-of-pile neglect

Best for: Drawer storage

Hotel Fold

What hotels often use.

1. Lay towel flat
2. Fold in half lengthwise
3. Fold in thirds widthwise

Pros: Simple, quick, professional

Best for: Speed, large quantities

Tips

Consistency matters: Whatever method you choose, use it consistently. Uniform folds stack better.

Shake before folding: Removes wrinkles and lint.

Fold promptly: Folding while warm from dryer reduces wrinkles.

Face edges out: Folded edges facing out looks neater on shelves.

By Towel Type

The Bottom Line

There's no objectively "correct" way to fold towels. Choose a method that works for your storage, looks acceptable to you, and that you'll actually do consistently.