Organizing clothes can be confusing, especially when it comes to deciding what to hang and what to fold. While some clothes stay neat and wrinkle-free on hangers, others stretch or lose their shape when hung. In this blog, we’ll cover the pros and cons of hanging vs. folding, the common issues each method can cause, and the best way to store different types of clothes.
Why Does It Matter?
The way you store your clothes can make a big difference in their appearance, longevity, and overall organization. Choosing the right storage method helps reduce wrinkles, prevent stretching, and keeps your closet more organized. Let’s take a look at some common problems and solutions to help you decide!
Wrinkles and Creases
Some fabrics are prone to wrinkling, making them look messy if not stored correctly.
Hang Wrinkle-Prone Clothes
Hanging clothes like blouses, dresses, and trousers helps them stay wrinkle-free, so you don’t have to spend time ironing or steaming before you wear them. This method also keeps the fabric smooth, making clothes look fresher.
Stretching and Losing Shape
Heavy items or stretchy fabrics can lose their shape or stretch out, especially when hung.
Fold Heavy or Stretchy Clothes
Folding heavy or stretchy items like sweaters, hoodies, and knits is ideal because it helps prevent stretching, especially at the shoulders where hangers can pull the fabric down. Folding these items also makes them easier to store in drawers or shelves, keeping your closet organized.
Limited Closet Space
Sometimes closets don’t have enough room for everything, and choosing what to hang or fold can help you maximize your space.
Mix Hanging and Folding Based on Fabric
T-shirts, jeans, and pants are perfect for folding and stacking. This keeps them neatly organized without taking up precious hanger space, which can be saved for more delicate or formal pieces.
What to Hang and What to Fold
Hang These Items
- Delicate Fabrics: Silk, satin, and lightweight materials stay wrinkle-free when hung.
- Structured Pieces: Blazers, coats, and jackets keep their shape better on hangers.
- Dresses and Trousers: These items stay neat and wrinkle-free when hung.
Fold These Items
- Heavy Fabrics: Sweaters, hoodies, and jeans don’t need to be hung and keep their shape when folded.
- Stretch Fabrics: Spandex, elastane, and other stretchy materials are better folded to avoid stretching.
- Casual Wear: T-shirts, jeans, and casual pants can be neatly folded, saving hanger space.
Hanging vs. Folding for a Well-Organized Closet
The right storage method for each item is essential for keeping your clothes looking fresh and lasting longer. A well-organized closet also makes it easier to find what you need, helping you save time in your daily routine.
Next time you’re putting away laundry, use these tips to create a closet that’s organized, easy to navigate, and keeps your clothes looking their best. Happy organizing!