Thrifted baskets can be used in many different ways in a home. From trash bins, to toy storage to laundry hamper, thrifted baskets are extremely versatile and budget-friendly.
Baskets, baskets, baskets! My home is full of many different sizes, styles and shapes of wicker baskets. I’ve collected them over my years of being a homemaker and will continue to find them for different uses in my house. The look of a basket really adds beauty to a home and they are also functional.
Another reason I really enjoy baskets is because we live in a 950 square foot home. When living in a small space, making the most of a home with functionality and beauty is important. As a family of five, soon to be six, practical storage is a must. Baskets can do just that!
So here is how I have used thrifted baskets to create that versatile, functional and lovely home.
Baskets in the living room
In the living space baskets are scattered throughout. There is a basket coralling books and photo albums next to our built-ins and chair. A basket under our side table holding my morning quiet time books and Bible. I can’t forget the basket with a lid, that contains kids books. And of course, a large blanket basket. All these baskets are on the same side of our living room, yet they all have function and create an added touch to the home.
On the other side of the living space we use as our music area and extra seating. Vintage picnic baskets contain toy cars, puzzles and blocks.
Another taller basket, that honestly floats around the living area, holds my sons toy tools. It’s such a cute basket that I do not mind it sitting in different places aroun the home. Next to the piano, the sheet music is held by yet another sturdy wicker basket.
Baskets in the kitchen
Baskets do not just have to be in the main living areas. They can function quite well in all areas of the home, including the kitchen. On top of our refrigerator our bananas and sometimes other fruits get a home in a beautiful basket. One side of our countertop does function as our charging station. With living in a small home, we have to make due with creating function for other things in the kitchen. A cute little thrifted basket, however, is used to corral the charging cords and bluetooth speaker.
Sometimes beauty does win over function. On the accordian rack by our espresso machine a hanging basket holds some decorative flowers. A little beauty without practicality is okay every so often. Then of course next to the espresso machine a cute round lidded basket contains our Stevia flavor drops for our lattes. It has it’s purpose and yet is cute. There is more thrifted decor inspiration on finding affordable decor fot the home here!
Baskets in the bedrooms and bathrooms
Having baskets in bedrooms truly makes the space more cozy, inviting and functional. A bedroom should not just be a place to sleep or an extra storage room. We only have two bedrooms for our current family of five. Storage of course, does have to happen in these rooms, but it does not have to be ugly.
In the kids’ room a large baskets holds the stuffed animals while a wicker chest contains more reading books. A few other thrifted baskets are used for a trash bin and for smaller “treasures” on the dresser.
In our master bedroom, which is the same size as the kids’ room, we have a few baskets. I used wicker baskets when I did our mini closet DIY make-over. A lovely closet really makes our bedroom feel more like a sanctuary. On our dresser a small lidded basket holds some creams or other items that we may rotate in and out. Of course I should mention that the kids’ closet and our closet has wicker laundry hampers. Yes, the plastic laundry baskets are functional, however, the beautiful aesthetic of the wicker laundry baskets is something I enjoy.
In the one bathroom in the house there are a couple smaller baskets for an aesthetic purpose and for a functional purpose. A wicker trash bin looks lovely and is practical. On a floating shelf another basket holds wash clothes and yet another corals some extra toilet paper.
Where to find baskets
Now that you have seen how I have used wicker baskets in different areas of my house, let me share how to find such baskets. These baskets can be bought from Amazon, Hobby Lobby, Pier 1 or any other home decor store. The downside to buying new is that they are very expensive (most the time). When looking for baskets, look no farther than the local thrift store a neighbor’s yard sale. Baskets can be found for a fraction of the cost when finding them second hand. The majority of the baskets I have in my home were thrifted, clearanced or gifted.
When shopping for baskets make sure to look them over. Good quality second hand baskets are key. Make sure to check how sturdy they are, if the bottom or sides are coming apart or if the handles are well fastened. I have made too many mistakes in buy a cheap basket and realizing it would not hold up to be functional.
Always be on the lookout. Another important factor in finding nice quality baskets is consistency in looking. Whenever I am out thrifting or rummaging I always take a look at the baskets. Keep baskets on your radar and the right ones will show up. Also, know where you would like to use baskets and sizes you may need. There are always baskets available, but if they do not fit the space with the right size or quality. DO NOT GET IT! Reminder, we do not need to get an item just because it looks good. We are aiming for function and beauty together.
Yes I have purchased some baskets new, like these nesting three pack from Amazon. There are times when storage was needed and the price was right. However, the majority of my baskets are second hand.
The important things
Creating a home of function and beauty can be done with finding second hand baskets. Use what you find for all areas of your home. Storage for toys, trash bins in rooms, laundry hampers and food storage; just to name a few ways to use baskets. Finding them second hand saves so much money and will be crucial when you want to use many baskets in the home.
Well friends, enjoy the time creating a functional and beautiful home with baskets!
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