striped pot (set of two) / oval lidded basket / green and white plates and bowls
This year I’m continuing my mission to create a place for everything and keep our home organized. I recently added several new baskets and wanted to share how they’re helping both with storage and styling.
My aim with these baskets is twofold: to add cozy texture and visual interest to shelves and counters, and to solve everyday organization challenges with simple, attractive solutions.
I’m not using baskets to hide things we don’t need. Instead, I’m choosing baskets to corral items we actually use but that tend to get left out. A small oval basket on the counter now holds our dog Lily’s supplements so they’re contained and easy to find—no more piles accumulating.
I also added three round lidded baskets to the island shelves, and they’ve made a big difference. Most of my baskets are rectangular, so the round shapes bring variety and make the shelving feel more curated.
All three round baskets are stackable. I use two smaller ones on one shelf and a larger one on another. The larger basket fits dinner plates that we only use occasionally, which keeps them accessible but out of the way. It’s the best mix of function and style.
Each smaller round basket has a dedicated purpose so I don’t forget what’s inside. That said, their contents are flexible and may change over time. Here’s how I’ve organized them so far.
Picture-hanging basket: One round basket is now my picture-hanging kit. It contains the small supplies I reach for when I want to hang a plate or frame—sticky tack, a measuring tape, hooks and nails. I’ll add a fresh stack of plate hangers, a small level, and a compact hammer so everything needed is in one convenient spot.
Small tools basket: The second small round basket became an “extra junk drawer” in basket form. Instead of digging through the garage or a crowded drawer, I keep a few handy tools here—small screwdrivers, pliers, and extension cords we use when guests bring appliances. Having this basket by the island means those items are within reach when we need them.
I dislike hunting through the garage for simple things, so keeping frequently used items near where we use them saves time and frustration. Moving some of these tools out of the island’s slim drawer also frees up that drawer for paper, pens, and other everyday items.
If you’re interested in styling and organizing with less visual clutter, consider joining a workshop or following practical organizing content. Creating systems where you use items most often—kitchen tools by the island, picture-hanging supplies near display areas—makes tidying effortless.
striped pot (set of two!)
More rattan basket ideas
Below are a few simple categories of baskets that are helpful in most homes:
- Stackable lidded baskets—great for dishes and seasonal items.
- Small round baskets—perfect for frequently used small tools or craft supplies.
- Oval lidded baskets—handy by the counter for pet supplies or mail.
- Rectangular baskets—work well in shelves or cubbies for folded textiles and pantry goods.
Baskets are simple yet powerful tools for making a home feel intentional. When you give an item a dedicated home that’s both attractive and accessible, you’re more likely to keep spaces tidy and clutter-free. These new baskets have already made everyday tasks smoother and the kitchen shelves more visually pleasing.
If you’re thinking about adding baskets to your own space, start by identifying a few problem areas—counters, open shelves, or slim drawers—and choose baskets that fit both the items and the look you want to achieve. Small changes can create big improvements in how your home functions and feels.