How to Fold Sweaters—And Why You Should Never Hang Them Up

To keep your favorite sweaters looking new, proper storage is key. You should use a fabric shaver when needed, handwash delicate materials, and place cedar blocks in your closet to deter pests. However, these efforts won't matter if you’re cramming your sweaters into drawers or, worse yet, hanging them up.

Hanging knitwear is a big mistake. Not only can hangers damage your sweaters, but bulky items can also take up valuable space in your closet. The best way to maintain the condition of your sweaters is by folding them correctly. If you find it difficult to keep your sweater drawer tidy, follow this guide to simplify the process and protect your favorite pieces.

Why You Should Never Hang Sweaters

While hanging a sweater temporarily won't ruin it overnight, regularly using hangers can cause some negative effects.

It Can Cause Shoulder Bumps

One of the most immediate and noticeable issues you'll see after taking a sweater off a hanger are shoulder bumps, especially in thinner materials like cashmere. These bumps will eventually disappear, and you can speed up the process with a steamer or iron. However, if you're in a hurry, those bumps sticking out from your shoulders can be a hassle you can avoid by folding your sweater.

It Will Cause the Fabric to Stretch

Just as shoulder bumps form because a sweater hangs and the sides of the hanger dig into the shoulders, the entire item can become misshapen. Over time, the weight of the sweater will pull it down, causing it to stretch. The neckline will become uneven and the body will elongate. The heavier the garment, the more quickly it will lose its shape.

It Will Take Up Too Much Room

Even if shoulder bumps and stretched material don't bother you, hanging all your sweaters takes up valuable space in your closet. If you're already short on hanging space, this will make your closet even more crowded and cluttered. Save yourself the trouble of squeezing things onto the rod and stick to storing your folded sweaters on shelves or in drawers instead.

How to Fold a Sweater

There’s no one right way to fold your clothes or linens like towels and sheets, but there is an easy, straightforward method. For sweaters, try this technique to quickly and easily fold them so they remain neat and wrinkle-free.

Step 1: Lay Sweater on a Flat Surface

Place the sweater on a clean surface like a made bed, dresser top, or counter space in the laundry room. Lay it facing down so the back of the sweater is facing you. Smooth the material with your hands to remove any creases or wrinkles.

Step 2: Fold Sweater Sides Vertically

Start with one side of the sweater and fold it along with the sleeve towards the center. Smooth it down so that the sleeve is parallel to the side. The wrist should be in line with the bottom of the sweater. Do the same for the other side so that the sweater is now half its original width.

Step 3: Fold the Entire Sweater Horizontally

Fold the bottom half of the sweater up towards the top. Depending on its size and where you plan to store it, you may need to fold it in thirds instead of halves. Flip the sweater over and place it upright on a shelf, or if you’re using the file folding method, place it downward into a drawer.

An Alternative Sweater Folding Technique

This method is slightly different but might be easier for bulkier knits. After smoothing the sweater on a flat surface, cross both arms so they lay horizontally. Then, fold the sweater in half and store it away.

For sweaters with collars, like turtlenecks, simply fold the collar down onto the back of the item before using either folding technique to keep it neatly tucked in.

How to Safely Hang Sweaters

Folding sweaters is our recommended storage method, but we understand closet layouts vary. If you have ample rod space and want to use it, here’s a way to hang sweaters without damaging them.

Step 1: Lay Sweater on a Flat Surface

Lay the sweater flat, facing up. Smooth it with your hands to reduce wrinkles.

Step 2: Fold the Sweater in Half

Pinch the top shoulder and bottom of the same side, and fold the whole side towards the middle, smoothing the arm on top of the other arm.

Step 3: Place the Sweater over a Hanger

Place a hanger on top of the sweater, turn it upside down at an angle so the hook base aligns with the armpits. Fold both arms over the hanger and repeat with the bottom of the sweater. Pick up the hook, and the sweater will stay looped over the hanger. Now you can hang it without worrying about bumps or stretching.