How to Fold a Shower Towel

Folding towels might seem like a simple task, but when done properly, it can make a big difference in the organization and appearance of your bathroom.

How to Fold a Shower Towel

Whether you’re folding towels for display or storage, there are several methods that can help you achieve a neat and space-saving result.

The Tri-Fold Method

The tri-fold method is a classic and space-saving technique that works well for smaller shelves or linen closets.

  1. Lay the towel flat on a surface, with the decorative side facing down.
  2. Fold one-third of the towel towards the center.
  3. Fold the remaining third over the folded portion, creating a long, three-layer strip.
  4. Fold the strip in half lengthwise.
  5. Fold it in half again to create a compact, stackable towel bundle.

Key Takeaway: The tri-fold method creates a narrow, space-saving fold that is ideal for smaller storage areas.

The Deep-Fold Method

If you have deep shelves in your linen closet, the deep-fold method is an excellent choice for maximizing space.

  1. Place the towel on a flat surface, with the decorative side facing down.
  2. Fold one long side of the towel to the center.
  3. Fold the opposite long side towards the center, overlapping the first fold.
  4. Fold the towel in half lengthwise, creating four layers.
  5. Fold each narrow end towards the center, leaving a small gap.
  6. Bring the two halves together for a final fold, concealing any raw edges.
Deep-Fold MethodAdvantages
Step 1: Fold long sides towards centerCreates a compact shape
Step 2: Fold in half lengthwiseMaximizes space on deep shelves
Step 3: Fold narrow ends towards centerHides raw edges for a neat appearance

The Narrow-Fold Method

The narrow-fold method is a popular choice when you have limited shelf space, as it creates a slim, rectangular shape.

  1. Lay the towel flat on a surface, with the decorative side facing down.
  2. Fold the towel in half lengthwise.
  3. Fold the towel in half again at the mid-point, aligning the corners.
  4. Fold the towel into thirds, starting from the narrow end.
  5. Place the towel on the shelf with the folded edge facing outwards for a tidy look.

Key Takeaway: The narrow-fold method creates a slim and compact shape, making it ideal for limited shelf space.

Folding Towels Like a Spa or Hotel

If you want to achieve a luxurious and spa-like appearance in your bathroom, try folding your towels like they do in hotels and spas.

  1. Lay the towel horizontally on a flat surface, with the decorative side facing up.
  2. Fold the lower left corner up towards the upper edge, creating a triangle shape.
  3. Fold the lower right corner up to meet the upper right corner.
  4. Turn the towel over, being careful not to unfold it.
  5. Start rolling the towel from the straight edge towards the point.
  6. Tuck the pointed end into the edge of the roll to secure it.

This method creates a neat, rolled towel that can be displayed standing up or lying down in a basket or on a tray or shelf.

The Rolled Towel Method

If you prefer storing your towels in baskets or have a narrow storage space, the rolled towel method is an excellent option.

  1. Lay the towel flat on a surface, with the decorative side facing up.
  2. Fold one corner towards the center lengthwise.
  3. Fold the towel in half lengthwise and flip it over.
  4. Roll the towel tightly from the non-pointed end towards the pointed end.
  5. When you reach the end, tuck the pointed end into the rolled portion to secure it.

Key Takeaway: The rolled towel method creates a compact and secure shape that is perfect for baskets or narrow storage spaces.

FAQs

Does the size of the towel matter?

All folding methods work with various towel sizes, but if you’re folding larger bath or beach towels, it’s recommended to fold them in half before using techniques like the ranger roll or ranger fold.

What side of the towel should be folded up?

Most folds start with the decorative side facing down, but once you try the fold, assess which side you want to be visible. If the towel has a printed or woven hem, you may need to adjust the folding to showcase those details.

Is it better to fold or roll towels?

There’s no right or wrong method – it depends on your personal preference, the available storage space, and the aesthetic you want to achieve. Rolled towels often look visually appealing, while folded towels can create a more uniform and organized appearance.

What is the best method for limited storage space?

The ranger roll creates a compact, sealed towel that won’t unravel, making it ideal for small closets or bathrooms. Additionally, storing folded towels in baskets can help maximize limited storage space.

Conclusion

Folding towels might seem like a simple task, but mastering different techniques can transform the look and organization of your bathroom.

Whether you prefer the classic tri-fold, the space-saving deep-fold, the slim narrow-fold, or the luxurious spa-style roll, each method offers its own unique advantages.

Remember, the key to successful towel folding is practice and finding the method that works best for your individual needs and preferences. Experiment with different techniques and enjoy the satisfaction of a well-organized and inviting bathroom environment.

Emma Kellam
Emma Kellam

I'm Emma, and I run Towels Edition, a website for fellow home goods enthusiasts who, like me, are passionate about textiles. After working in high-end retail, I was amazed by how little most people (myself included!) know about all the towel options out there.

I research and write all the content myself. Whether it's specialized towels like bar mops, Turkish cotton production methods, or comparing hair towel absorbency, I cover it. My goal is to share my knowledge and enthusiasm to help others.

Running Towels Edition allows me to constantly expand my own expertise too. I love learning about innovations in bamboo fabric or ideal bath towels. It's so rewarding to receive emails thanking me for recommendations that improved my readers' routines.

I want Towels Edition to be the ultimate online towel resource, making this overlooked necessity far more fascinating. My aim is to open people's eyes to how specialty towels can thoroughly enhance hygiene, cleaning, recreation and self-care.