Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. This means that if you click on the link and purchase an item, I'll make a small commission to keep the lights running. Furthermore, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I recommend only products I have personally tried and believe can bring value to you.
Confused whether to hang or fold your t-shirts? The answer can actually depend on a few factors – like fabric material, closet space and frequency of use.
When it comes to storing tees in your closet, there are pros and cons to both folding and hanging. In this article, I’ll dive into each method so you can make an informed decision on what works best for your circumstances.
In my own closet, I prefer file-folding my t-shirts. I find that it’s a system that works best for the kind of t-shirts I have and the kind of closet organizers I’ve added.
Folding T-shirts: Classic & Space-Efficient
Before you can come to a decision on whether to hang or fold your t-shirts, let’s first get into the advantages of folding:
Saves Space
Folding t-shirts takes up less vertical space when compared to hanging them.
So if you’re someone who has limited vertical closet space folding will be the better option.
Prevents Stretching
Certain types of fabrics can stretch when you hang them. This is especially true for t-shirts with heavy prints or t-shirts that are light or sheer cotton. In this case, you’re better off folding your t-shirts.
File Folding Keeps Things Tidy
If you’re folding your t-shirts in the file system and using the right organizers, it becomes super-easy to see all your tees in one glance. Unlike folding in piles, you can also pull out what you need without disrupting other clothes.
Hanging T-shirts: Easy to Grab & Crease-free
Hanging t-shirts, on the other hand, offers a different set of advantages, especially if you have more horizontal closet space:
Keeps Tees Wrinkle-free
Folding clothes can sometimes create wrinkles and creases. Hanging them keeps them upright and generally free of wrinkles.
Great if You have Horizontal Space
If your closet has more hanging space than it has shelves, then by all means – hang all your tees! Just avoid hanging fabrics that are likely to stretch out.
Visibility and Access
When hung with ample space in between, t-shirts are more visible. This can make it easier to select and grab an outfit quickly without digging through piles. Just try not to overstuff your space with hangers in order to keep everything visible and accessible.
Good for Special Fabrics
Some fabrics like chiffon or satin are harder to fold and are prone to getting crushed. However, when hung some of these fabrics can also slip off (rather annoyingly!). This is where it’s important to choose the right kind of hanger.
Hang or Fold Tees – Which One is Right For You?
While each has its pros and cons, the whether you should hang or fold your t-shirts depends on your particular wardrobe space and fabric type. However as a general thumb rule, these factors can help you make your decision:
Limited Closet Space
If you have a small closet, folding is likely the better option. With the right folding technique and organizers you can pack in much more in little space.
For Delicate Fabrics
If you have a lot of delicate fabrics you may want to avoid hanging as it can stretch out the fabric.
Lighter fabrics or those with delicate prints are often better off folded.
For Easy Access
If you like to see all your t-shirts at a glance and choose them quickly, hanging might be more suitable.
My Choice: A Hybrid Approach
In my closet, I fold some tees in organizers while I hang some others – mostly based on the frequency of use and the fabric.
I personally like to hang my everyday workout tees, so I can quickly grab them in the morning without wasting time.
I like to fold my lycra or light cotton tees so they don’t stretch out.
And, finally, I like to hang tees that are prone to getting crushed.
So there you have it! I hope I helped you decide on the best way to store t-shirts in your closet. If you’re confused about whether to hang or fold other stuff too – check out this article with my hang or fold cheatsheet.
