Storage that looks good and works hard is one of my favorite home solutions, so I want to share why baskets are such a useful, practical, and attractive accessory. I have baskets in almost every room — closets, bathrooms, shelves, the laundry room, and even in our cars. I use them for so many purposes and have been collecting them for years.
Baskets are versatile and timeless.
You may remember when I described one way I use lidded baskets during my seasonal decorating series — I store seasonal accents and entertaining supplies in lidded baskets in my dining room. Even though I have furniture for storage, the baskets add storage, texture, and visual interest all at once.
What else do I keep in baskets?
- I hide baking supplies on open shelves by tucking them into baskets so the space looks tidy.
- Pantry snacks and lunch items stay organized when grouped together in baskets.
- When a room or a shelf needs texture, baskets provide instant warmth and balance.
- My dusting rags are corralled in a basket for easy access.
- Stray socks awaiting their matches live in a basket in the laundry room.
- Creative supplies for projects are kept together in baskets so they remain portable and organized.
- Small items in the car — pens, paper, and accessories — live in a dedicated vehicle basket.
- Magazines and reading material look neater when stacked into a basket.
- Incoming mail gets sorted into a basket so it doesn’t spread across the entry table.
Clutter Crisis?
We once had too many video games and controllers scattered around the family room. We asked our son to sort through them and keep a few favorites out; the rest were stored in his closet. The remaining games fit into one lidded basket on the shelf by the TV — problem solved and the room looks so much better.
Baskets are attractive, easy to place almost anywhere, and among the most versatile accessories I own. I dislike clutter and prefer things contained. Baskets help me maintain order while adding charm. You can never have too many.
Where do I buy lidded baskets?
Many readers asked where I source the lidded baskets that fit on shelves or cabinets.
I occasionally find baskets at HomeGoods, TJ Maxx, or similar stores, but selection and sizes vary. Once I needed new lidded baskets and couldn’t find any in stores, so I started searching online for consistent quality and reliable availability.
I found a dependable source of handcrafted lidded baskets that I love. Diane carries a selection of classic baskets and complementary home items, from bakeware to pottery and dishes. Her collection includes baskets in sizes and finishes that are practical for shelves and cabinets.
If you haven’t explored handcrafted baskets from specialty makers, they’re worth a look: the right basket will fit neatly on a shelf and add texture while providing concealed storage. The basket pictured below is an example of a piece that fits well on shelves and cabinets while offering a neat, finished look.

I’m pleased to work with Diane as a sponsor for a giveaway featuring quality baskets. She’s a pleasure to work with and offers beautiful baskets and gift items you’ll enjoy using around the house.
A Longaberger Giveaway
For this giveaway, one winner had the choice of a small rectangular storage basket with a wood lid — a model that fits nicely on shelves — or an alternative prize featuring a 9 x 13 ivory baking dish with cover and a woven travel mug. These pieces offer both beauty and function and make lovely gifts or additions to your home collection.
mmm. morning coffee to go!
no, my coffee maker is not included in the giveaway.

How to enter
To enter, visit the collection of handcrafted baskets and home items, then leave a comment on the post describing how you use baskets in your home or how you would use one if you win. This giveaway was limited to U.S. entrants at the time and was open to everyone, bloggers and non-bloggers alike. Additional entries were offered for sharing the giveaway on social channels and returning to leave a comment for each share.
Giveaway details:
- One winner selected to receive their choice of the storage basket with wood lid or the baking dish and travel mug combination.
- Entry required leaving a comment describing basket use or plans for a winning basket.
- Additional entries available by sharing the giveaway and commenting again for each share.
The giveaway closed on Friday at 9PM PST. The announced winner was April from say what you need to say.
Good luck in finding baskets that bring order and beauty to your home!