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The Spruce / Lecia Landis
The right basket in the right place can serve both form and function. While your first instinct when organizing can be to buy a specific product designed for a specific space, sometimes that may not suit your household's routines. In fact, it can throw your organization system off and leave you with blankets draped over chairs and toys everywhere. "My joke is, if there's a lid on something, or a door on something, there's no way your kids are going to put [an item] back," says Holly Blakey, professional organizer and founder of Breathing Room Organization + Styling.
That's part of what makes baskets such a great option. In addition to coming in many styles, they're versatile and practical. "I’ve seen so many buy shoe racks, and it looks messier than if you bought a really cute rattan basket, and the kids threw their shoes in there ... that looks way more tidy," Blakey says. And once your kids grow out of that phase, you still have an attractive basket to use however you please.
With an abundance of choices available at retailers large and small, it can certainly be daunting to find just the right basket. So, we spent hours researching woven baskets, evaluating each basket's capacity, quality, and durability, as well as factoring in the conditions in which the basket was crafted.
Here, the best-woven baskets to add style and storage to your home.
Best Overall
Pottery Barn Austin Woven Utility Basket
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Pottery Barn
Structured shape and versatile size
Entire line of coordinating baskets
Practical handles
Lower weight capacity
Can get pricey if buying multiple
It wasn't easy to narrow down a best overall woven basket, but ultimately the Austin Woven Utility Basket from Pottery Barn takes the cake for its traditional wicker material, open and versatile shape, and leather handles. It also has a complementary collection available to go with it. Importantly, Pottery Barn promises that this basket is responsibly and ethically made, which was a top priority for us while we researched our recommendations.
As far as appearance, the woven wicker fiber complements a variety of decor styles, and the leather straps add a touch of smooth texture. We especially appreciate the rounded corners of the rectangular shape that allow it to stand out from the crowd. (If you've done any basket shopping lately, you will see that lots of options feature sharper edges and corners, which aren't always kid-friendly.) Really, the entire line of Austin baskets is worth a look, especially if you're looking to coordinate your storage system in a particular room or even throughout your home.
Note that if you stock up, it might get pricey, but given the high quality of each basket, you can expect them to last and for your investment to pay off. While this is not the basket you'd want to use to haul books, magazines, or other heavy belongings around with you when you're moving, since the weight capacity is 3 pounds, it's still very timeless. If you are looking for an all-around woven basket that blurs the line between storage container and decorative piece, this is it.
Price at time of publish: $69
Amount: 1 | Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 9 inches | Materials: Wicker | Handles: Yes | Lid: No
Best Budget
IKEA Fladis Basket
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Can display it multiple ways
Roomy design
Handles can be folded in or out
Not super sturdy
Despite its designation as our best budget-friendly pick, you won't feel like you're cutting any corners with the IKEA Fladis basket. In fact, the belly-style design gives you more flexibility than most options, since you can fold the sides in for a bowl-shaped display, or use it with the handles out for more space for your favorite things and belongings. It's handwoven with seagrass, with a clear lacquer for added protection. We felt that these features alone made it worthy of recommending.
Though, like our best overall pick, it's also not the best choice for hauling heavy goods. It serves best as a floor basket or storage bin that's not moved around a ton. If that's what you're looking for, you will find it in the Fladis basket.
Price at time of publish: $12
Amount: 1 | Dimensions: 9.88 x 12.63 inches | Materials: Seagrass | Handles: Yes | Lid: No
Best Splurge
Connected Goods Natural Bolga Hamper Basket Set - Two Handles
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Courtesy of Connected Goods
Handwoven and sturdy
Set of two
Fair labor practices
Ships flat
These stunning and sturdy baskets are handwoven by artisans in the Bolgatanga region of Ghana using traditional techniques the region is known for. The elephant grass material is durable and beautifully textured. Although the final product is certainly a splurge, you can feel good about your purchase as the brand, Connected Goods, is committed to paying its craftspeople fair, livable wages. Plus, the woven baskets will look stunning sitting on an open shelf or your living room floor.
The baskets are sold as a set of two, and they come shipped flat, so you'll need to use a spray bottle to wet your baskets with water and reshape them by hand. Once you've done so, you'll be able to admire and enjoy them for years to come.
Price at time of publish: $249
Amount: 2 | Dimensions: Small, 14-16 inches (without the handle) x 15 inches; Large, 16-18 inches (without the handle) x 17 inches | Materials: Elephant grass | Handles: Yes | Lid: No
Best Small
La Jolie Muse Paper Rope Storage Baskets Set of 4
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Courtesy of La Jolie Muse
Light, neutral tone
Lining protects contents
Stackable
Not sold individually
No handles
These lovely paper rope baskets are sold in a set of four and would work well for items like desk accessories or entryway organization. They're attractive enough to sit out in the open, but they can also double as in-closet organizers for socks and underwear. Since lids are not included, this set can stack at an angle, or the smaller baskets can be nested into the larger ones when not in use.
These woven baskets are unique, because they’re made of paper rope, a material fashioned from kraft paper that's been chemically treated and twisted. The inside lining makes these an organizer’s dream, as you’ll be able to fold T-shirts and delicate items into these without worry of snags. The baskets can also be stacked, and they are easy to clean. Just dab gently (no scrubbing!) with a damp cloth.
Price at time of publish: $34
Amount: 4 | Dimensions: Small, 7.1 x 4.7 x 2.8 inches; Medium, 8.7 x 5.5 x 3.1 inches; Large, 9.8 x 6.3 x 3.9 inches; Extra large, 11 x 7.1 x 4.7 inches | Materials: Paper rope | Handles: No | Lid: No
Best Large
The Citizenry Padma Square Storage Basket
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Courtesy of The Citizenry
Ethical and fair trade practices
Wide square base
Additional sizes available
Can get pricey if buying multiple
The Citizenry is another retailer committed to fair trade processes and ethical standards for artisans. The cooperative of Bangladeshi women responsible for these beautiful baskets are from one of 22 countries that The Citizenry currently works with, all of which earn fair wages. This is a basket you can feel good about purchasing in more than one way.
We love the Padma storage basket not only for the socially responsible practices that contribute to its creation, but also for its elegant design and practicality. While the oversized option felt worthy of the "best large" title for its wide 18- by 18-inch square base and whopping 20-inch height, the design is offered in three other sizes. You can buy those sizes individually or in pairs.
Price at time of publish: $145
Amount: 1 | Dimensions: 18 x 18 x 20 inches | Materials: Hogla leaves | Handles: Yes | Lid: No
Best for Pantry
The Container Store Small Water Hyacinth Bin
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Courtesy of The Container Store
Hidden metal frame adds durability
Wide weave is unique and attractive
Sturdy handles
Labels sold separately
While a number of retailers carry shelf-friendly and versatile storage baskets, this option from The Container Store stands out for a few reasons. We like how the water hyacinth fiber is woven over a metal frame, giving you added durability and strength for storage, as well as consistency in size and shape if you're buying multiple. We also appreciate the roomy handles that are part of the basket's structure, since they don't flop or fold over. The weave is a bit thicker than what you'll see in other popular styles, too, giving them a subtly distinct look. The Container Store also offers coordinating labels to go with these baskets, but they are sold separately, so you'll want to plan accordingly.
For pantry shelves in particular, we think the extra-small size is ideal at 10.75 by 7.5 inches, though there are four additional choices that each go up in size, so you can easily stock an entire pantry or closet.
Price at time of publish: $12
Amount: 1 | Dimensions: 10.75 x 7.5 x 4 inches | Materials: Water hyacinth, metal | Handles: Yes | Lid: No
Best for Plants
Jungalow Green Woven Planter
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Courtesy of Jungalow
Beautiful design and colors
Fair wages and sustainable materials
Each is a bit unique
No handles
When selecting a basket for a plant, there are a few extra things to consider than if you were looking to, say, store books or toys. To protect your planter, you'll need to either place your pot directly inside or replant the contents using a liner. You'll also want to be sure you remove the plant and clean the stand with a dry cloth occasionally. Not only is this gorgeous design by Jungalow up to the task, but it also features a colorful weave and eye-catching pattern. Each basket is a bit unique as well, since they're handwoven.
Also worth noting, Jungalow and its partners are committed to fair trade practices, using recycled and repurposed materials when possible, and they even plant two trees with every order. Just note: the basket doesn't feature any handles, so you'll need to pick it up from the bottom in order to move your plant friend.
Price at time of publish: $59
Amount: 1 | Dimensions: About 7 x 7 x 5 inches | Materials: Sisal, sweetgrass | Handles: No | Lid: No
Best for Laundry
The Jolie Market Paris Basket
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Courtesy of The Jolie Market
Three available sizes
Features lid and handles
Sturdy
Can get pricey if buying multiple
It's true, dirty laundry can be decorative—if it's stored in a gorgeous basket, like this hamper from The Jolie Market. Available in three versatile sizes, we think the extra-large size, with its 21-inch diameter and 30-inch height, is the ideal shape and size for laundry. It's the kind of hamper you'll want to keep on display. And since it comes with a lid, you won't have to worry about wrinkly clothes ruining the vibe of your space. It boasts sturdy rope handles so you can lift it when necessary, and the large handle in the center of the lid is also easy for hands of all sizes to lift and open, too.
As tempting as it may be to order the whole set, it could quickly add up. Rest assured that if you do build a collection of any size, it'll be an environmentally friendly set, since the materials used include dried seagrass and recycled plastics.
Price at time of publish: $160
Amount: 1 | Dimensions: 30 x 21 inches | Materials: Dried seagrass, recycled plastics | Handles: Yes | Lid: Yes
Best for Toys
Pillowfort Multi Stripe Coiled Rope Storage Bin
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Courtesy of Target
Colorful design
Roomy shape and size
Built-in handles
Not handwoven
Not structured
The pastel-colored coiled rope of this striped basket is a mix of polyester and cotton, and it includes built-in handles, so even young children can easily move it from place to place. From Target’s Pillowfort line, which features a range of affordable products designed for kid-friendly spaces, this particular basket comes in three different sizes and goes with a variety of other products, so you can mix and match according to your needs.
This basket is soft and lightweight, and it's roomy and tall enough for plenty of stuffed animals. The coiled rope is thick, but the baskets don't have any kind of wire framing, so if you prefer a more structured shape, this one might be a compromise for you.
Price at time of publish: $35
Amount: 1 | Dimensions: 18.5 x 16 x 19 Inches | Materials: Polyester, cotton | Handles: Yes | Lid: No
Best Bowl
54kibo Green Stripe Coiled Cotton Basket
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Courtesy of 54kibo
Handmade
Locally sourced materials
Versatile size
Best kept in one spot
Handmade in South Africa, this basket has an open, bowl-shaped design that makes it easy to see and reach its contents. We also like how its earthy tones (a light oatmeal beige with a grassy green stripe) are neutral enough to match many decor styles, while still bringing a pop of color.
This item doesn’t come with a lid or handles, so it’s a piece you’d use as a display item first and an organization item second. When you find the perfect spot, you can enjoy it as a regular part of your routine. For keys and a phone on an entryway table, or notepads and paperclips on a desk, and even jewelry on your dresser, you can't beat this timeless, elegant, cotton rope basket.
Price at time of publish: $38
Amount: 1 | Dimensions: 3 x 8 inches | Materials: Cotton | Handles: No | Lid: No
Best Colorful
Mbare Medium Patterned Hamper Basket
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Courtesy of Made Trade
Bright, striped pattern
Handmade
Included lid, built-in handles
Pattern only available in one size
Handwoven in Senegal, this brightly colored, beautifully made woven basket works equally well as a focal point or supporting piece with a range of decor styles. Center it on a shelf or table, position it next to a couch, or tuck it beside a bed—or try all of the above and see what you like best. The sturdy craftsmanship and rope handles make it easy to move and adjust as necessary, and the matching lid ensures that contents stay protected.
While coordinating baskets do come in other sizes, keep in mind that this multi-colored pattern is only available in one size: 14.5 inches by 22 inches. And be warned that you may be tempted by more than one style. The other available baskets will still go well together, though.
Price at time of publish: $108
Amount: 1 | Dimensions: 14.5 x 22 inches | Materials: Cattail, recycled plastic thread | Handles: Yes | Lid: Yes
Best Market Tote
The Little Market Rectangular Market Tote
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Courtesy of The Little Market
Multifunctional
Comes in two sizes and four designs
Durable
Natural dye may transfer
No closure
This beautiful basket comes from the Bolgatanga region of Ghana and is created with such precision that it doubles as a bag, too. Pretty and practical, the classic size offers roomy measurements at 16 by 11 by 6 inches, that make it large enough to carry at a farmer's market or while out for errands. (A petite, handbag-like size is offered, too.) Available patterns include dashed, striped, natural, and all-black.
Double handles allow for easy gripping. If we could make any changes, we would fashion a closure so contents can stay secure when it's used on the go. The retailer also notes that if you go for a design with dye, it may transfer to lighter surfaces. Despite these minor issues, we think this is an excellent choice for a market tote basket.
Price at time of publish: $88
Amount: 1 | Dimensions: 16 x 11 x 6 inches | Materials: Veta vera grass | Handles: Yes | Lid: No
Best for Blankets
West Elm Woven Seagrass Handle Basket
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Courtesy of West Elm
Wide shape for storage and display
Hidden metal frame
Handwoven
No lining
When considering the best basket for blankets, we wanted a wide shape with an open design that allows cozy textures to be displayed and stored at the same time. Enter the large Woven Seagrass Handle Basket from West Elm, which checks all of the above boxes and looks beautiful, too. It's available in natural, two-toned, or all-black styles, and in three sizes. Although for blankets, we fancy the large size, which is 19 by 15 by 15 inches. A subtly hidden metal frame is also underneath the seagrass exterior for added durability.
These baskets are handwoven in Vietnam, and they're sold as single units or in sets of three. In a perfect world, they would be lined for extra protection of soft blankets or other contents, but even without included lining, we are big fans.
Price at time of publish: $38
Amount: 1 | Dimensions: 19 x 15 x 15 inches | Materials: Seagrass | Handles: Yes | Lid: No
For a well-constructed basket that will work in every room in your home, try the Austin Woven Utility Basket from Pottery Barn. It's crafted by hand, one of many in a collection that you can mix and match, and the tightly woven exterior is designed to last for years. If you're on a budget, IKEA's FLADIS basket holds up well and costs a fraction of the price of similar-sized containers.
What to Look for in a Woven Basket
Size and Weight
Woven baskets come in almost unlimited shapes, sizes, and weights, so there's no shortage of options if you're on the hunt for one. Think about how you'll use your baskets as you're considering options, and remember the advice from Holly Blakey, professional organizer and founder of Breathing Room Organization + Styling. She highlights the importance of taking into account lifestyle, space, and personal limits when planning for storage and organizational projects.
"Giving yourself the time and space to rethink your current systems ... is one of the best places you can start," she advises. So, whether you're buying a bench and baskets to store underneath, or debating an entire overhaul of your living room, entryway, or kids' room, taking some extra time at the beginning of your planning process is ideal.
Another way to plan for the size and weight you need is to consider whether you wish to move a woven basket from room to room easily. Perhaps you plan to use one to hold cleaning supplies. You will want to opt for a smaller, lighter basket. Additionally, baskets that will be used to hold children's toys—such as our "best for toys" pick, the Pillowfort Multi Stripe Coiled Rope Storage Bin—should be lightweight and easy for young ones to lift on their own. Baskets that will remain in one place for a while—perhaps holding off-season clothes in a closet—can be heavier and bulkier in size.
Style
Select a woven basket that best coordinates with your existing decor and complements your style. Seagrass baskets tend to lean coastal in design, while traditional hyacinth baskets err on the traditional side. Of course, selecting a basket in a style that is new to you can be a great way to experiment with decor trends or gradually transition a room's aesthetic.
Playing with natural materials such as rattan and palm leaves can give your space a delicate, breezy feel without overhauling your home’s style. On the other hand, coiled rope baskets can help store your things, while blending in with almost any decor.
Purpose
Some woven baskets are much pricier than others, and you will want to weigh your family's lifestyle and the way in which the basket will be used before determining where and when to invest. A basket that will be stationed in a kids' room may experience extra wear and tear, whereas one that will be placed in the living room to hold magazines may lean more luxe. In that case, you’d want to opt for a basket with a durable construction that’s made of tightly woven rattan, rope, or plastic.
Fair Trade and Environmental Impact
Since many woven baskets are crafted by artisans using natural materials, you may also want to consider the fair trade practices of your selected retailer, as well as the environmental impact of the company’s production process. Materials like rattan and palm leaves are easily renewable and don’t require as much water to produce as other materials like cotton or polyester. Our "best splurge" pick, Connected Goods' Natural Bolga Hamper Basket Set, is made of elephant grass and is a great choice for someone who is looking to shop a brand committed to fair labor practices.
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Can you paint woven baskets?
Yes, you can apply spray paint in the color of your choosing to a woven basket, in order to change its appearance or revive a basket that has seen some wear and tear. This may be key to consider when shopping for a more budget basket that doesn't necessarily come in the color or pattern you're hoping for. Spray painting may require a few coats, and should be done with care.
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How do you reshape a woven basket?
Reshaping a woven basket is a simple process. You will need to soak the piece in water for several minutes, then take it out and reshape it to your liking by hand. You should let it air dry completely before using. In the case of baskets that ship flat—like our "best splurge" pick, the Connected Goods Natural Bolga Hamper Basket Set—you will want to plan on reshaping your basket.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Lexi Dwyer has written about drying racks, hampers, toy storage, and more for The Spruce. As a mom of two in a New York City apartment, she is always looking to up her storage game. For this piece, she included a mix of baskets from large and small retailers. She also looked for a variety of materials, including seagrass, rattan, and more. She read through reviews and considered factors such as durability, style, and whether or not the woven baskets were produced with fair labor and environmentally conscious practices in mind.
Dena Ogden, commerce writer for The Spruce, also collaborated on this piece, adding a few picks that we really love. She also spoke with Holly Blakey, professional organizer and founder of Breathing Room Organization + Styling about entryway organization, planning, and storage.
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