Decorating with baskets is an easy and timeless way to add warmth, texture, and function to any space.
Baskets can be used as practical storage or displayed as decor, making them a really easy way to refresh a room without dropping a ton of cash.
From woven trays on a coffee table to wall displays that double as art, baskets seem to fit just about anywhere. Seriously, there’s hardly a corner in the house that couldn’t use one.
What makes baskets stand out is how they blend function with style.
Want to hang them on the wall? Fill them with plants? Tuck them into shelves? Baskets give you endless options, and honestly, it’s hard to mess up.
Mixing up shapes, sizes, and materials lets baskets tie a space together while fighting off that cluttered look.
Let’s look at how to pick baskets for different rooms, style them in unexpected ways, and use them to bring in greenery, storage, or even a bit of seasonal charm.
Choosing the Right Baskets for Your Home
The best baskets balance function and style. Ideally, you want pieces that help you stay organized but also add texture, warmth, or color.
Picking the right type, material, and source really makes a difference in how baskets work for you.
Types of Baskets and Their Uses
Different baskets have different jobs, so it’s smart to match the type to what you need.
It’s worth thinking about where the basket will actually sit. The right shape and size keep everything under control while blending in.
- Wicker baskets are sturdy and lightweight, so they’re perfect for holding blankets or toys in the living room.
- Wire baskets are handy in kitchens or offices since we can see what’s inside at a glance.
- Woven baskets with handles are a go-to for laundry or bigger storage. They’re easy to move and can hold heavier stuff like towels or shoes.
- Wooden baskets aren’t as common, but they add a rustic vibe and work for magazines, firewood, or seasonal decor.
- Shallow basket trays look tidy on coffee tables or counters.
- Tall baskets are great for corners or entryways.
Selecting Basket Materials and Styles
Material changes everything. The material of a basket affects more than its appearance and also determines where and how it works best.
- Natural fibers (seagrass, rattan, wicker): Add warmth and texture; perfect for living rooms or bedrooms. Note that with natural fibers, you should avoid damp areas as moisture can cause warping or mold.
- Fabric or wire: Ideal for bathrooms and kitchens since they’re easy to clean and moisture-resistant.
Style’s a big deal too. It’s always best to match basket materials with your home’s aesthetic.
- Modern look: Sleek black or metallic wire baskets bring a clean, contemporary feel.
- Cozy look: Chunky woven baskets create a relaxed, farmhouse-style atmosphere.
- Neutral tones: Blend easily into any décor.
- Patterned or colorful options: Serve as subtle statement pieces or “mini art” accents.
Mixing and matching is also fun. A set of matching baskets looks neat, but combining different weaves and shapes keeps things from feeling too stiff.
It’s all about finding a balance that fits the room’s mood and still gets the job done.
Where To Find Quality Baskets
No need to break the bank for good baskets. There are great options at every price point.
- Thrift stores and flea markets are goldmines for unique woven or vintage pieces that add character. These are perfect for decor you don’t use every day.
- Home goods stores and big retailers usually have sturdy wicker, wire, and fabric baskets in every size. They’re reliable when you need matching sets or something that’ll last.
- Local artisans and online marketplaces have handmade options if you’re after something special. They might cost a bit more, but they last and bring a personal, crafted touch.
Mixing affordable finds with a couple of standout pieces gives us both function and style.
Decorating With Baskets Throughout the Home
Baskets help keep our homes neat while adding texture and warmth. They’re great for storage, decoration, and even making small corners feel cozier.
Using Baskets for Everyday Storage
Baskets are a stylish way to corral clutter anywhere in the house, and baskets make it easy without ruining the vibe.
They’re especially handy for spots that need quick cleanup or flexible organization.
- Entryway: Use large floor baskets for keys, shoes, umbrellas, or scarves.
- Living room: Hold blankets or pillows by the sofa or store magazines, remotes, or kids’ toys under coffee tables or inside open shelves.
- Reading nook: Hold books, reading glasses, notebooks, throws, plants, or flowers.
- Bedroom: Store extra linens, blankets, or throw pillows at the foot of the bed.
- Office or craft area: Keep supplies, notebooks, or cords tucked away in smaller baskets.
- Laundry room: Fabric or rope baskets make sorting easy and look much nicer than plastic bins.
Styling Baskets as Decorative Accents
Baskets aren’t just for hiding stuff; they can be part of the decor too.
- Wall art: Hang a cluster of flat woven baskets for an eye-catching display.
- Planters: Place potted plants inside baskets to soften hard containers and bring in natural texture.
- Corner or tabletop decor: Fill baskets with dried stems, branches, or even rolled textiles for instant style.
Creative and Seasonal Basket Decorating Ideas
Baskets aren’t just for hiding stuff away. They’re great for centerpieces, seasonal touches, and fun DIY projects that can give old baskets a second chance.
Basket Centerpieces for Dining Tables
A basket centerpiece makes the dining table feel cozy, not cluttered.
Fill a shallow wicker basket with fresh fruit for every day.
Swap in pine cones and greenery when it’s chilly out.
Line a basket tray and add candles, tiny vases, or folded napkins for something a bit fancier. Mixing woven baskets with glass or ceramic keeps things interesting.
Seasonal flowers or faux greenery in a basket bowl look good too. Just keep the arrangement low so people can see each other across the table.
Bread or rolls in a cloth-lined basket double as decor and part of family meals.
Decorating With Baskets for Holidays
Baskets are easy to switch up for any holiday.
For Valentine’s season, use smaller baskets lined with fabric or lace and fill them with candles, flowers, or wrapped sweets. Soft pinks, reds, and neutrals add warmth without feeling overdone.
For spring and Easter, pastel baskets with eggs or spring flowers add a cheerful touch. A woven basket of daffodils or lavender looks cheerful on an entryway table.
Summertime calls for wicker or wire baskets to hold flags, picnic essentials, or seashells for a relaxed, seasonal vibe. Add blue and white linens or mini lanterns for a subtle patriotic touch.
In fall and Thanksgiving, a big basket of pumpkins, gourds, or dried corn is simple but festive. Smaller baskets filled with cinnamon sticks, candy, or dried leaves work well for tabletops and mantels.
At Christmas, tuck in small evergreens, ornaments, or wrapped gifts and set the basket by the fireplace or on a console table for a cozy, festive look.
The nice thing is, baskets are reusable! Just swap out what’s inside each season. Neutral-colored wicker baskets work with just about any style or holiday, so you don’t have to keep buying new ones.
DIY Painted and Upcycled Basket Projects
Old baskets don’t have to end up in the trash. A little paint or fabric can give them new life.
A quick coat of white, black, or pastel paint can turn a thrift-store find into a modern accent. Try color-blocking with tape for something playful.
Fabric liners, leather handles, or stenciled designs also make baskets feel custom.
These tweaks don’t take much time but make a big difference.
Hanging painted baskets on the wall in different colors is a fun, budget-friendly way to make a gallery wall. Upcycling lets you match baskets to your style without spending much.
DIY basket update ideas:
- Spray paint for a uniform modern look.
- Color-block with two or three shades.
- Add fabric liners for softness.
- Stencil patterns for a personalized touch.