When organizing your casual clothes at home, deciding whether to fold or hang can make a significant difference in maximizing space and keeping your clothes in good condition. T-shirts, sweatshirts and hoodies each have different storage needs due to their fabric type and structure.

How You Store Your Tops Can Depend on a Few Things, So Which Way is Best?

Here are the best ways to store each of these items, along with some tips and considerations to keep in mind to keep your favorite clothes looking their best.

T-Shirts: Fold or Hang Based on Material

For most t-shirts, folding is the best option. Hanging t-shirts can cause the fabric to stretch over time – particularly around the neckline and shoulders – which leads to an unflattering shape that’s hard to get back to normal. 

However, if your t-shirts are made of 100% cotton or a high-quality, structured fabric, hanging can be a good option to prevent wrinkles.

• Classic Fold: Lay the t-shirt flat, fold in the sleeves, and fold it in half or thirds for easy stacking.
• KonMari Fold: Fold into a compact rectangle that can stand upright, allowing you to store them vertically in drawers for easy visibility and access.
• Hanging Option: Want to hang your t-shirts? If so, it’s important to choose the right hangars. Use velvet or padded hangers to prevent stretching. Avoid wire hangers, which can create those dreaded shoulder dimples over time.

Storage Tip: If drawer space is limited, use shelf dividers or storage bins to keep stacks organized and prevent them from toppling over.

Sweatshirts: Fold to Save Space (But Hanging Can Work Too)

Sweatshirts are much bulkier than t-shirts and should generally be folded rather than hung to prevent stretching the shoulders out of shape. The thicker material of sweatshirts makes them ideal for stacking. However, in some cases, hanging can be a practical option as well. Here’s what to consider:

• Flat Fold: Lay the sweatshirt flat, fold the arms inward, and then fold the body in half or thirds for a neat pile.
• Hanging Option: If you wear a sweatshirt frequently and prefer easy access, hanging on a sturdy, wide-shouldered hanger can help to maintain its shape without causing stress on the fabric.

Storage Tip: Stack sweatshirts on shelves or in storage bins to avoid overcrowding drawers. If space allows, roll them to prevent creases and make them easier to grab (more on this option below).

Hoodies: Fold to Preserve Shape (But Hanging is Possible)

Hoodies should generally be folded rather than hung. Their heavy fabric and the added weight of the hood can stretch the shoulder seams and distort the fit if left on a hanger for too long. Some people like to hang hoodies because it makes them easier to see. So under certain conditions, hanging might be a good option (but there are a few things to know):

• Hood-Tuck Fold: Lay the hoodie flat, fold the sleeves inward, tuck the hood into the body, and fold into a compact square.
• Drawer-Friendly Fold: If storing in a drawer, roll the hoodie after folding to save space and minimize wrinkles.
• Hanging Option: If you prefer to hang hoodies, use thick, padded hangers to support the weight and prevent stretching. Lightweight hoodies made of thinner materials or performance fabrics are less likely to deform and may hang well.

Storage Tip: If hanging, fasten any zippers or drawstrings to help the hoodie maintain its shape. Avoid thin hangers, which can create dents in the shoulders and can crack under the weight of the hoodie over time.

Rolling: A Space-Saving Alternative

Ever roll your clothes when packing? Rolling can be an excellent alternative to folding t-shirts, sweatshirts and hoodies at home, especially if you have limited drawer or shelf space. This method works particularly well for t-shirts and sweatshirts but can also be used for hoodies with proper technique.

• For T-Shirts: Rolling t-shirts allows for easy visibility in a drawer, prevents deep creases, and makes the most of available space.
• For Sweatshirts: Rolling can be helpful for thinner sweatshirts, keeping them compact while reducing folds and wrinkles.
• For Hoodies: If drawer storage is preferred, roll hoodies tightly after tucking in the hood to minimize bulk.

Storage Tip: Store rolled items in a bin or drawer organizer to keep them neatly arranged and prevent them from unraveling.

Final Thoughts

For most casual wear, including t-shirts, sweatshirts and hoodies, folding is the best way to store them to preserve their shape, prevent stretching and optimize storage space. However, high-quality cotton t-shirts may be hung if the right type of hanger is used. 

Additionally, lightweight hoodies and frequently worn sweatshirts can be hung with proper support to maintain accessibility without causing damage. Rolling is another efficient storage method that saves space, reduces wrinkles, and improves organization. Consider your available space, frequency of use, and preferred organizational style when choosing your storage method. 

With a little planning, you can keep your cherished t-shirt, sweatshirt and hoodie collections tidy, accessible and in excellent condition.

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