Ah, the hotel bathroom: so pristine, so organised, so… not your bathroom at home. From the fluffy towels to the soaps you’re definitely going to steal, it’s the details that make the difference. And the pièce de résistance? That perfectly folded toilet paper roll.
Why not bring that little extra fancy to your own bathroom? Whether you want to go classic with a hotel classic triangle, show off with a fan or boat, or confuse your housemates with a TP rose, we’ll show you how to fold toilet paper like a hotel professional.
Why fold toilet paper, anyway?
Folded toilet paper designs are more than just a fancy flourish. A neatly folded toilet paper roll suggests a well-kept bathroom and shows guests (or yourself) that you’ve put in a little extra care. Plus, it’s practical: folded ends are less likely to unravel, which means fewer messes and less waste from your roll.
The hotel paper fold adds a classic touch
The classic hotel fold — the effortless triangle — is like a welcome mat for the loo, letting guests know that the bathroom is clean, prepped and waiting for them.
It’s also easy to master, as demonstrated by @TheCleanLoft.
Step 1: Start at the end
Grasp the loose end of the toilet paper and pull out a few squares.
Step 2: Make a triangle
Fold the loose end down into a neat triangle, pointing towards the roll.
Step 3: Tuck and tighten
Gently tuck the tip of the triangle under the top layer of paper on the roll.
Step 4: Perfect the crease
Smooth the edges of the triangle for a crisp, clean look.
Create elegance with the fan fold
The fan fold adds a touch of drama to the toilet paper folding repertoire — the pleated diva to the classic fold’s timeless demure.
While this technique builds off the hotel fold, it requires additional steps and patience.
Step 1: Set aside two sheets
Tear off two sheets of toilet paper and set them aside for later.
Step 2: Make a triangle pocket
Fold the bottom of the sheet into inch-sized increments two times. Fold the two edges under the sheet to form the triangle pocket.
Step 3: Pleat the two individual sheets
Next, fold the bottom end down, then back up on itself to create a pleat. Repeat until you reach the top of the two sheets.
Step 4: Secure the fan
Tuck your accordion fan into the triangle pocket. Separate the pleats slightly so that they evenly spread across the roll. Voilà! C'est magnifique!
Challenge yourself with the sailboat fold
The sailboat fold floated into the public consciousness through online tutorials and social media, anchoring its place as a clever way to give your loo a lift. Here’s how to tackle this folding flex.
Step 1: Start with a triangle
Create the standard hotel fold triangle, but leave a longer loose end.
Step 2: Repeat with the second end
Fold the triangle’s sides upward to make a second triangle, representing the boat sails.
Step 3: Bring sails forward
Pull the pointed edge upward so you can see the large sail folds.
Step 4: Tuck and tighten the boat
Fold the bottom crease about an inch toward the sails to create the boat's hull. Tuck the corners on both sides to secure the completed boat fold.
Wow guests with the rose fold
With its intricate beauty and elegant form, the rose fold has bloomed all over social media. Transform your bathroom break into a chance to stop and smell the roses — minus the thorns.
With a little effort, you’ll have a stunning bathroom bouquet.
Step 1: Loosen six sheets
Gently loosen the toilet paper roll, pulling out at least six sheets. Fold them neatly in half.
Step 2: Twist and tuck
To make a swirl, wrap the bottom end around your finger and tuck it back toward the roll. Keep at it until your rose starts to take shape.
Step 3: Form the rose
Push the remaining tissue between the flower and the roll through the hole created by your finger.
Step 4: Primp the petals
Tuck the sides gently to secure the rose, then fluff the petals until they’re just right.
Conclusion: Turn up your bathroom creativity
Unleash your inner origami artist! As you’ve seen with the classic, fan, boat, and rose designs, a little toilet paper fold goes a long way in creating a bathroom oasis.
Practice makes perfect — you’ll have these folds down pat in no time. Once you’ve mastered these techniques, there are many more intricate designs to explore.
Of course, any toilet paper fold is even more impressive with high-quality, ultra-strong rolls. Who Gives A Crap's 100% renewable and sustainable bamboo paper won’t fall apart, no matter how many designs you try.
Not into TP crafting? Our playful wrapping patterns add style with zero extra effort. And with our commitment to sustainability and social impact, you can rest easy knowing you’re wiping with purpose. Welcome to the fold!