Have you ever opened your wardrobe to find a pile of jumbled, wrinkled clothes, feeling a wave of stress wash over you as you sift through the chaos to find something to wear?

The KonMari method tackles this all-too-familiar the dilemma of having “too many clothes, but nothing to wear” in two steps: 1) keep only items that give you tokimeki (spark joy), and 2) make everything visible, accessible and beautiful.

Here we will focus on the benefits of latter, the famous KonMari fold. This folding method, developed by Marie Kondo, is more than just a way to store your clothes — it’s a ritual that brings calm, joy, and mindfulness into your daily life.

Here are 10 benefits of folding your clothes the KonMari way:

1. All your clothes are visible and accessible

One of the most obvious benefits of folding your clothes the KonMari way is that every item becomes visible and accessible. It might sound trivial, but being able to choose what to wear is transformative, especially on mornings where you are rushing or feeling uninspired.

Unlike the traditional method of stacking clothes on top of each other, the KonMari method allows you to store your clothes vertically. This means that each item is displayed in a way that you can see and access without disrupting the others. No more giving up on wearing the perfect top because it’s crushed deep in a pile. No more neglected favorites lost at the bottom.

2. Start your day in a better mood

Mornings can often be stressful, but starting your day by effortlessly (and joyfully) choosing the perfect outfit sets a positive tone. Instead of rummaging through a tangled mess, you can pick and choose the clothes that suit the occasion, the weather, or simply your mood. This small change can have a big impact on your mood and mindset. You’ll feel a sense of calm and control, ready to take on the day with confidence.

3. Curating your wardrobe becomes effortless

This visibility also helps you make intentional choices about what to keep and what to discard, ensuring that your wardrobe stays fresh and aligned with your current style. With everything in plain sight, it’s easier to create outfits, appreciate the clothes you truly love, and notice any gaps (and shop more intentionally).

4. Extend the lifespan of your garments

When clothes are stored neatly and properly folded, they are less prone to wrinkling, stretching, or damage. By giving each item a designated place and treating them with care, you preserve the quality of your clothes, reducing wear and tear. This not only saves money by avoiding the need for frequent replacements but also fosters a more sustainable and mindful approach to fashion.

A little side note here about clothes made of natural fibres, which have many benefits such as effortlessly elevating your style, being comfortable in all seasons, and usually more sustainable than synthetic materials. These clothes often require gentler care and folding them is a perfect way to do this. Check out this blog article (in French) to learn more about natural fibres.

5. Keep an eye on the condition of your clothes

Another benefit of folding your clothes carefully is that it gives you an opportunity to inspect each piece. As you handle your garments, you’ll naturally check their condition, noticing any wear and tear, loose buttons, or fading colours. This allows you to take care of your clothes in a timely manner, extending their life and ensuring they remain in good shape, as well as allowing them to retire when the time comes.

6. A meditative gesture

Folding clothes the KonMari way can be a meditative practice. The repetitive, careful motions allow you to focus on the present moment, clearing your mind and grounding yourself. As you fold, you feel the texture of your clothes, noticing the softness of your favorite shirt or the sturdiness of your jeans. This sensory connection fosters a sense of mindfulness and peace, helping you slow down. In this way, folding clothes becomes not just a chore, but a form of self-care.

7. Transmit energy to your clothes

Marie Kondo teaches that folding clothes is more than a practical task—it’s a way to care for your belongings and connect with them. When you fold your clothes by hand, you transmit positive energy into them. This process creates a sense of mindfulness and appreciation for the things you own. As you fold, you can reflect on how each piece of clothing serves you, and in turn, you can treat your clothes with respect and gratitude.

8. Encourage children's autonomy

Folding clothes the KonMari way is not just for adults — it’s a fantastic way to teach young children to choose their clothes and get dressed. As they can clearly see all of their clothes and pick whichever ones they like without disturbing the other ones, the process is fun and stress-free. Here's my Instagram post on this very topic. You can also teach them, it’s like origami!

9. Makes packing a breeze

Folding clothes the KonMari way is also incredibly practical when it comes to packing for trips. Because the clothes are folded into compact, neat parcels, they take up less space and stay organised within your suitcase. No more messy, overstuffed suitcases!

10. A skill you can learn easily

Many people assume that folding clothes the KonMari way takes more time or effort than traditional folding, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. The technique is simple and can be learned quickly, and it doesn’t take longer than the “classic” way of folding clothes. In fact, it often saves time because of how organised and accessible your wardrobe becomes. Once you incorporate it into your routine, it becomes second nature.

And the difference it makes? No more sloppy piles, no more jumbled messes, and no more stress about finding clothes. Your wardrobe stays neat and tidy, a source of joy day after day.

Folding with intention transforms your wardrobe

Folding clothes the KonMari way is about more than organising your wardrobe — it’s about fostering a sense of peace, joy, and connection to your belongings. You’ll save time, reduce stress, and feel a deeper sense of satisfaction every time you open a drawer.

Whether you’re teaching your kids the joys of folding, using it as a moment of mindfulness, or simply appreciating the practicality of having all your clothes visible and accessible, this small habit can make a big difference.

Are you ready to learn the KonMari fold and upgrade your wardrobe?

Join my next folding lesson (in French) that will take place on 9 November 2024 in Geneva!