No doubt about it, when it comes to domestic efficiencies the fitted sheet is a dream invention. Yet, too often it’s an absolutely nightmare to fold. All those elastic edges just refuse to be tamed. Fortunately, there is a way.

With the help of my husband, Chad, here’s how to properly fold a fitted sheet.

1. Hold the sheet with the elastic facing you.

Above: With the elastic side facing you, place your hands inside the top two corner pockets of the sheet.

2. Turn one corner pocket inside out and slip the other corner pocket inside of it.

Above: Turn the corner that’s in your left hand inside out, bring the ends together, and insert the right corner into the left pocket. Use your middle finger to make sure that the two corner points fit snuggly within each other. (Alternatively, you can fold the sheet in half. without turning the corner inside out, and then tuck one corner over the other.)

3. Run your hand from that doubled corner pocket to the next corner pockets.