Direct answer: The term you’re looking for is commonly “file folding” (also called the KonMari filing or vertical folding method). It’s a folding technique designed to store clothing so every item stands upright in its drawer, making it easy to see and access each piece without messy stacks. What file folding is
- Core idea: Fold each item into a compact rectangle and place them vertically in the drawer, like file folders in a cabinet.
- Benefit: You can see all items at a glance, reduce over-pulling, and prevent toppling stacks.
Popular approaches and how to start
- KonMari method (Marie Kondo): Fold each item with a small gap at the edge, then stand pieces upright so they “file” side by side. This works especially well for T-shirts, tops, and underwear.
- NEAT/other organizer guides: Many organizers instruct folding shirts first in half, then in thirds or quarters to create a tall, narrow rectangle that can stand in a row.
- For pants and other garments: Fold in a way that yields a flat, narrow rectangle, then stack or file them upright in the same drawer.
how to apply step-by-step (general guide)
- Lay the item flat with the front facing up.
- Fold one side toward the center, leaving a small gap at the edge.
- Fold the other side over to create a neat rectangle with a visible edge gap.
- Fold the item lengthwise to a compact height that will stand on its own.
- Place the folded rectangles upright in the drawer, with the folded edge facing the front so you can see each item.
Practical tips
- Start with a small set (e.g., T-shirts) to practice the folding size so all items fit similarly.
- Use uniform drawer dividers or small boxes to keep rows tidy and aligned.
- For bulky items (sweaters or jeans), adjust the fold so the final rectangle fits the drawer height while preserving upright visibility.
Common questions
- Is file folding the same as Marie Kondo’s fold? Yes, when describing the upright, file-like organization; many sources describe variations of the KonMari filing fold.
- Does it work for towels and linens? It can, but require slightly different fold sizes to maximize space and maintain upright visibility.
If you’d like, specify what garments you want to start with (e.g., T-shirts, jeans, towels), your drawer dimensions, and whether you prefer a KonMari-style gap or a strict file-fold approach. I can tailor a precise step-by-step plan for your setup.
