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15 Best Laundry Baskets and Hampers of 2024

Updated
Keep dirty laundry off the floor with these laundry baskets and hampers.

You don’t want to leave your dirty clothes lying on the ground. It’s not a good idea to leave them inside the washing machine for days before you finally start the cycle, either. So, it’s time to invest in one of the best laundry baskets and hampers.

We’ve looked at dozens of laundry baskets and hampers. Applying our own insight and experience, as well as researching real customer reviews, we’re confident in our 15 choices.

Our Top Picks

We independently assess, research, and evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on the links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the Rev-A-Shelf Pullout Cabinet
Best Pullout Laundry Basket
Rev-A-Shelf Pullout Cabinet
  • Fits in cabinets
  • Durable
  • Maximizes space
Product Image of the Homest Travel Laundry Bag
Best for Travelling
Homest Travel Laundry Bag
  • Large capacity
  • Locked drawstring
  • Machine washable
Product Image of the CleverMade Collapsible Tote
Best Foldable Laundry Basket
CleverMade Collapsible Tote
  • Foldable
  • Compact
  • Spacious
Product Image of the Oceanstar Bamboo Laundry Sorter
Best Laundry Basket With Compartments
Oceanstar Bamboo Laundry Sorter
  • Three compartments
  • Stylish
  • Sturdy
Product Image of the Hanging Laundry Hamper
Best for Small Spaces
Hanging Laundry Hamper
  • Large capacity
  • Collapsible mesh fabric
  • Sturdy material
Product Image of the Mind Reader Laundry Basket
Most Sturdy
Mind Reader Laundry Basket
  • Sturdy
  • Good portability
  • Good for small spaces
Product Image of the Lifewit Double Laundry Hamper with Lid and Removable Laundry Bags, Large Collapsible 2 Dividers Dirty Clothes Basket with Handles for Bedroom, Laundry Room, Closet, Bathroom, College, Grey
Includes Removable Bags
Lifewit Double Laundry Hamper
  • Removable bag
  • Easy to install
  • Easy to pull and carry
Product Image of the Laundry Bag Backpack
Best Laundry Basket for Laundromat
Laundry Bag Backpack
  • Portable
  • Doubles as a hamper
  • Large capacity
Product Image of the Portable Laundry Hamper
Best Laundry Hamper With Wheels
Portable Laundry Hamper
  • Has wheels
  • Collapsible
  • Spacious
Product Image of the Simplehouseware Laundry Hamper
Best Laundry Hamper With Lid
Simplehouseware Laundry Hamper
  • Has a lid
  • Two compartments
  • Removable laundry bags

Review Methodology: At Oh So Spotless, we pride ourselves on providing you with a thorough analysis and assessment of the best laundry baskets and hampers available. Our team of professionals combines hands-on experience, extensive research, and data-driven evaluations to rank and review each product based on crucial criteria such as functionality, durability, design, and user experience. We compare and measure each laundry basket’s performance, identifying key decision-making factors and rating them in those areas. Our in-depth findings offer first-hand evidence of what sets each product apart from its competitors, ensuring you have all the information you need to choose the perfect laundry basket or hamper for your home. Trust our expertise to guide you in making the best decision for your laundry needs.



The Best Laundry Basket & Hampers of 2024

To narrow it down to 15 laundry baskets and hampers, we studied each product. We looked at the material, the size, what it’s best for, its portability, and its durability.

We’ve done the research, read the reviews, and gathered a great list ranking the best laundry baskets and hampers. Now that the hard part’s done, here are our picks.

Rev-A-Shelf Pullout Cabinet Laundry Hamper

Best Pullout Laundry Basket

When freeing up some space in your laundry room, you might consider a laundry basket that fits inside a cabinet. The Rev-A-Shelf Pullout Cabinet Laundry Hamper is a top choice because it easily slides in and out of your cabinet.

This says it’s for 14-inch openings, but customers have used this item for many different sizes of cabinets.

Pros

  • Fits in cabinets, saving you space.
  • Durable plated wire construction.
  • Can hold 100 pounds worth of clothes.
  • Easy to install with the 4-screw method.
  • You can use the tray to hold other items, such as pet food.

Cons

  • It won’t fit in every cabinet.
  • Very expensive, up to 10 times more than other options.
  • Door mount kit is sold separately.

Product Specs

Material Wire and cloth
Size 18 x 14.75 x 19.38 inches
Special function Slides in and out of cabinets
Handles No
Weight 15.15 pounds

Our Ratings

Durability
4.5 / 5
Capacity
3.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Portability
3 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

User Experience

For those who value space-saving solutions, this product is a great addition to any home. While the installation process can be tricky, once properly set up, the pull-out hamper is both convenient and sturdy. It fits a good amount of laundry and the quality is impressive.

Homest 2 Pack Travel Laundry Bag

Best for Travelling

The Homest travel laundry bag is great for travelers. It comes with two bags, one for you and your travel buddy.

Each bag can hold up to four loads of laundry. The quality is durable, so you don’t need to worry about your bags ripping during your travels. The drawstring even locks, so your clothes won’t spill out while you’re on the move.

You can also wash these bags in a washing machine! Wash this every time you empty it to keep it really clean.

Pros

  • Large capacity, can hold four loads of laundry.
  • Locked drawstring keeps garments secure.
  • Good for traveling.
  • Can go in the washing machine.
  • Rip-proof thanks to double-needle stitching.
  • You can use it to store other items, including fishing gear.

Cons

  • Doesn’t stand upright on its own.
  • No handles, so not the easiest to transport.
  • Much bigger than expected.

Product Specs

Material Nylon
Size 27.9 x 0.1 x 39.8 inches
Special function Locked drawstring
Handles No
Weight 7.7 ounces

Our Ratings

Durability
4 / 5
Capacity
4.5 / 5
Design
3.5 / 5
Portability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Personal Perspective

Best laundry bags I've purchased! These bags are not only durable and sturdy, but also offer a large capacity to hold a week's worth of laundry for multiple people. The easy-carry straps and drawstring closure make transporting laundry a breeze, whether it's to a laundromat or keeping dirty clothes separate while on vacation. These bags can also be used for storing larger items like winter blankets, making them a versatile and practical addition to any household.

CleverMade Collapsible Laundry Tote

Best Foldable Laundry Basket

This laundry basket is perfect for travelers, those washing clothes in communal places, and people who live in smaller homes.

It folds up to a very small size so you can put it in drawers, your suitcase, and cupboards. Users of this laundry basket commend it for its spacious size and practicality.

Although this basket folds up really small, it’s big when it’s open. Plus, it stays upright by itself, so it doesn’t fall over when trying to remove the clothes.

Pros

  • Foldable design making it easy to store.
  • Compact enough to keep in your suitcase.
  • Spacious when open so you can store two loads of laundry.
  • Quickly pops open and is easy to fold.
  • Includes steel rim, so it stays open.

Cons

  • The handles are short, so it’s difficult to carry.
  • Some customers noted that it collapsed in on itself too much.
  • More expensive than similar items available.

Product Specs

Material Polyester
Size 21 x 13 x 18.25 inches
Special function Foldable
Handles Yes
Weight 2 pounds

Our Ratings

Durability
3.5 / 5
Capacity
4 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Portability
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Community Feedback

I recently purchased these collapsible laundry baskets and have been extremely satisfied with their durability and convenience. The sturdy canvas straps make carrying heavy loads up and down stairs a breeze, and the baskets' ability to fold flat for storage is a fantastic space-saving feature. Additionally, the baskets are made of breathable material, which helps prevent mildew from forming on damp clothes.

Oceanstar Bamboo 3-Bag Laundry Sorter

Best Laundry Basket With Compartments

We love the Oceanstart 3-Bag Laundry Sorter because it has three brilliant compartments. If you have multiple members in your family, then this is a top feature.

Now you can sort clothes by colors or by fabrics. This is a must-have, especially if you prioritize style in your home. This laundry hamper has a sleek, trendy look and will suit most interior styles.

Pros

  • Three compartments for sorting laundry.
  • Stylish design suits most homes.
  • Sturdy frame construction lasts a while.
  • The bags are removable for sorting or washing.
  • Rubber feet protect your floors.

Cons

  • The compartments are quite small.
  • Assembly required upon arrival.
  • The seams split if you load too much laundry into the bags.

Product Specs

Material Polyester and bamboo
Size 29.75 x 27  x 19.1 inches
Special function Three compartments
Handles No
Weight 7.38 pounds

Our Ratings

Durability
4 / 5
Capacity
3.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Portability
3 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

First-Hand Impression

My experience with this laundry sorter has been quite positive, as it's not only easy to assemble but also very convenient for organizing clothes. The bags are sturdy and simple to remove, making the transition from bedroom to laundry room a breeze. Although it would be perfect if the bags had some air holes for wet items and a way to prevent collapsing, overall, I highly recommend this product for its functionality and appearance.

Storage Maniac Hanging Laundry Hamper

Best for Small Spaces

The Storage Maniac hanging laundry hamper can slot right into your wardrobe, so you don’t use any more floor space.

Each purchase comes with two bags holding two to three loads of laundry.  Plus, it requires no tools for assembly.

The breathable mesh gives these laundry bags great ventilation to prevent mold.

Pros

  • Hangs up so you can save floor space.
  • Large capacity for two to three loads.
  • No tool assembly required.
  • Great ventilation to prevent mold and mildew.
  • Works as a laundry hamper or storage.

Cons

  • Customer complaints of mesh tearing.
  • The hangers included aren’t strong enough.

Product Specs

Material Mesh and polyester canvas
Size 13.2 x 1.9 x 17 inches
Special function Hangs up, mesh material
Handles Yes
Weight 2.33 pounds

Our Ratings

Durability
3 / 5
Capacity
4 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Portability
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

 

User Experience

From my personal experience, this product has been a fantastic addition to my children's shared room, providing individual laundry hampers that easily hang in the closet. The lightweight fabric and sturdy handle make carrying the hampers downstairs to the laundry room an effortless task. These hampers have a breathable design, allowing for proper air circulation and keeping any unpleasant odors at bay. Although other users have mentioned concerns about the bottom insert, I've found these hampers to be durable and a valuable space-saving solution for our household.

Mind Reader 60HAMP-IVO Laundry Basket

Most Sturdy

The Mind Reader Laundry Basket is sturdy, durable, and has a large capacity. This is a simple solution to laundry.

If you have heavier clothes, such as your work gear, you’ll need a sturdy laundry basket that doesn’t fall over. This one can do the trick.

This basket holds up to 60 liters but is also slim. It’s a good space saver while also being a practical hamper. Perhaps not for big families, though.

This hamper has handles, too. So whether you go to the laundromat or just move around the house, this has excellent portability.

Pros

  • Sturdy plastic wicker material.
  • Good portability, thanks to the handles.
  • Good for small spaces due to slim design.
  • It can hold multiple loads of laundry at once.
  • Ventilated design ensures good circulation for clothes.

Cons

  • Too small for large families or people sharing a hamper.
  • It’s not super comfortable to carry.
  • The lid doesn’t fit properly or may break after a few weeks.

Product Specs

Material Plastic
Size 10.1 x 14.2 x 24 inches
Special function Sturdy
Handles Yes
Weight 4.1 pounds

Our Ratings

Durability
4.5 / 5
Capacity
4 / 5
Design
3.5 / 5
Portability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Personal Perspective

Love the sturdiness and functionality of this laundry basket! Initially, I was disappointed when it arrived without a lid, but the manufacturer resolved the issue promptly and sent a replacement. The basket is spacious and keeps my laundry sorted, making it perfect for small spaces. Although it may not be the most stylish option, it's definitely a durable and budget-friendly choice.

Lifewit Double Laundry Hamper with Removable Bag

Includes Removable Bags

Removable bags are a great feature to have in any laundry basket. If that’s your priority, then the Lifewit laundry basket is a wonderful choice.

The removable mesh bag makes it easy to transport your clothes to the laundry room. This choice also has great ventilation to prevent mold, mildew, and water buildup.

If you’re on the move a lot, this laundry hamper is also collapsible. You can store it under the bed, in the closet, or in your car when you’re not using it.

Pros

  • Removable bag makes for easy portability.
  • Good ventilation to prevent mold.
  • Easy to install.
  • Easy to pull and carry.

Cons

  • Comes with incomplete accessories.
  • May not be the sturdiest.
  • The unit collapses if it’s too full.

Product Specs

Material Polyester
Size ‎23.2 x 15 x 27.2 inches
Special function Removable bags
Handles Yes
Weight 3.93 pounds

Our Ratings

Durability
3.5 / 5
Capacity
3 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Portability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Laundry Bag Backpack

Best Laundry Basket for Laundromat

Having a local laundromat is awesome, but lugging your loads of laundry around isn’t. Thankfully, the Laundry Bag Backpack can help. This is the best invention for those who go in and out of laundromats because you can wear it as a backpack.

You can also use this as a hamper. Keep it in your bedroom and toss your clothes in when they’re dirty.

On laundry day, pull the drawstrings and go to the laundromat. This bag can carry up to two loads of laundry at a time.

Pros

  • Portable as a backpack.
  • Doubles as a hamper.
  • Holds two loads of laundry.
  • Durable, water-resistant material.
  • Top expands open so you can add and remove laundry easily.

Cons

  • No compartments.
  • Doesn’t stand up by itself.

Product Specs

Material Polyester and polyester blend
Size 11.2 x 10.4 x 1.3 inches
Special function Serves as a backpack
Handles Yes
Weight 1.05 pounds

Our Ratings

Durability
4 / 5
Capacity
3.5 / 5
Design
3.5 / 5
Portability
5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

First-Hand Impression

This laundry backpack has become a favorite for its convenience and durability. The top drawstring design allows for easy packing, while the backpack straps make transportation a breeze. The only downside is the black bottom, which tends to collect lint and dust, making the bag appear dirty after some use. It's perfect for city living and laundromat users, fitting plenty of clothes and even providing a front pocket for laundry supplies.

Portable Laundry Hamper With Wheels

Best Laundry Hamper With Wheels

So, you want something with wheels. We get it; that’s a super practical thing to have on your hamper. Push it around your house, picking up dirty clothes as you go.

Well, no need to look further than the mDesign portable laundry hamper with wheels.

This aesthetic laundry hamper also has a lid and good capacity, and it collapses when you’re not using it. What could be better?

Pros

  • It has wheels for easy maneuverability.
  • Collapsible design makes it easy to store.
  • Spacious enough for one load of laundry.
  • Attached lid contains odors and keeps pets out.
  • You can also store toys, blankets, and more.

Cons

  • Hard to move when it’s empty.
  • On the flimsy side.

Product Specs

Material Polyester
Size 17 x 13.8 x 4.6 inches
Special function On wheels, collapsible
Handles Yes
Weight 3.95 pounds

Our Ratings

Durability
3 / 5
Capacity
4 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Portability
5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

User Experience

Best of both worlds, this lightweight laundry hamper combines style and function effortlessly. I found it easy to assemble, and it holds a surprising amount of clothes despite its compact appearance. The wheels make transporting laundry a breeze, especially for those with mobility issues. While the material may seem a bit thin, it remains durable and easy to clean, making it a perfect addition to any living space.

Simplehouseware Double Laundry Hamper With Lid

Best Laundry Hamper With Lid

This Simpehouseware laundry hamper traps bad odors and has two compartments. This is a fantastic hamper if you’re like us and love separating colors.

The inside bags are also removable, so you can easily transport your laundry from room to room. They can also be washed in your machine.

This hamper comes in various colors, so you can find the right one for your style. This includes grey, beige, turquoise, and more.

Pros

  • It has a lid to keep odors inside.
  • Two compartments for separating colors.
  • Removable bags so you can transport laundry.
  • Available in eight colors.
  • Compact enough to fit in most closets or bathrooms.

Cons

  • Flimsy material wears down quickly.
  • Bags are attached by Velcro, and they come loose often.
  • Extra fabric at the bottom, which is unsightly.

Product Specs

Material Polypropylene
Size 17.4 x 13.7 x 2.9 inches
Special function Lid, two compartments, removable laundry bags
Handles Yes
Weight 5.64 pounds

Our Ratings

Durability
3 / 5
Capacity
4 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Portability
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Personal Perspective

When I first got this product, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to assemble and how well it fit into my small living space. The two compartments have been a great help in keeping my laundry organized, and the removable bags make transferring loads to the laundry room a breeze. The neutral color and sturdy design are also great features that I appreciate. Although it may not hold as much laundry as a couple might need, it's perfect for my needs as a single person.

DokeHome Round Collapsible Storage Basket

Best for Kids

Getting your child a DOKEHOME Round Collapsible Storage Basket might be the right first step to them doing their own laundry. These handy dandy baskets come in seven different designs that are pleasing to the adult eye.

They also come with a great drawstring feature so that your kid’s dirty school clothes don’t stink out your home.

Just be careful of mold. The waterproof fabric is thick, so it doesn’t have great ventilation.

Pros

  • Nice designs and seven options.
  • Drawstring top keeps odors at bay.
  • Portable and lightweight.
  • Freestanding and won’t topple over.
  • Collapsible design makes it easy to store.

Cons

  • Poor ventilation, so it isn’t great for wet clothes.
  • Small capacity isn’t enough for adult clothes.

Product Specs

Material Cotton with waterproof lining
Size 13.7 x 13.7 x 17.7 inches
Special function Drawstrings
Handles Yes
Weight 7 ounces

Our Ratings

Durability
3.5 / 5
Capacity
2.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Portability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Community Feedback

My experience with these laundry baskets has been fantastic! They're a perfect solution for tight spaces and are both cute and functional. The plastic material on the inside makes it easy to wipe clean and they're quite sturdy compared to traditional baskets. I've found them to be great not just for laundry but also for storing items like stuffed animals, blankets, and even balls of yarn for knitting projects. The only downside is that I wish they were a bit larger and had stronger handles.

Like-It SCB-7 Portable Laundry Basket

Budget-Friendly Laundry Basket

It’s surprising how expensive laundry baskets can be! If you’re on a budget, this option should suit you. At its modest price, it’s still a practical laundry basket to have.

Simply pop your dirty, clean, dry, wet clothes in this basket, and it will do the trick. These plastic baskets are sturdy — great for heavy or light loads.

Pros

  • Affordable price point compared to other plastic baskets.
  • Sturdy and durable for large, heavy loads.
  • Practical to carry laundry around.
  • Cute mint-green color.
  • Easy to carry with handles.

Cons

  • No lid included.
  • Needs regular cleaning.
  • It’s smaller than expected.

Product Specs

Material Plastic
Size 13.98 x 17.91 x 9.45 inches
Special function Holds wet or dry clothes
Handles Yes
Weight 1.4 pounds

Our Ratings

Durability
4 / 5
Capacity
3 / 5
Design
3 / 5
Portability
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

First-Hand Impression

If you're looking for an affordable and versatile storage solution, these baskets may be a great option for you. I've found them to be sturdy enough for holding clothes and even imaginative play for my kids. Although they might not be the perfect size for everyone, they have worked well for organizing areas like under my kitchen sink. The baskets are easy to slide or lift and have an attractive design. However, I would recommend double-checking the dimensions before purchasing, as some may find them to be a bit smaller than expected.

Seville Water-Hyacinth Double Laundry Hamper

Best Wicker Laundry Basket

This hand-woven wicker laundry hamper comes with a double compartment. It’s amazing for separating darks and whites or your clothes from your partner’s.

It’s an environmentally sustainable option, too. Plus, it will look great in your home, especially if you have a cottage country style.

Another great feature is that the inner bags can be machine-washed, too. They’re completely removable, so pop them out when transferring laundry or washing the bags.

Pros

  • Double compartment for separating clothes.
  • Environmentally friendly hand-woven wicker design.
  • Removable bags inside for transferring laundry.
  • Beautiful design available in five colors.
  • Removable bags are machine-washable.
  • Handles included for easy carrying.

Cons

  • Each compartment is quite small.
  • Bags unattach if too full.
  • Not the most durable wicker material.
  • Susceptible to mold.

Product Specs

Material Hyacinth wicker
Size 22.8 x 13 x 24 inches
Special function Double compartment, inner bags
Handles Yes
Weight 7 pounds

Our Ratings

Durability
3 / 5
Capacity
3.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Portability
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

User Experience

Excellent hamper for the price, with a few minor drawbacks. I love that it's beautiful, functional, and easy to assemble, but I was surprised to find no solid bottom, just an interior bag. The folding aspect makes it a bit flimsy and not ideal for heavier items, but it holds a full load of laundry and separates whites from colors.

MCleanPin Large Laundry Hamper Collapsible

Best for College

The MCleanPin laundry hamper is a great fit for college students. This hamper comes with detachable laundry bags.

When your hamper is full, you can take out the bags and carry them to the laundry room. After you’re done, the bags can be reused as many times as you want.

Heading home for the summer? You can easily collapse this hamper. Pop it in your suitcase and enjoy a summer of easy laundry, too.

Pros

  • Removable laundry bags for transferring clothes.
  • Collapsible design fits in a suitcase.
  • Large capacity for two loads of laundry.
  • Laundry bags are machine washable.

Cons

  • Not very sturdy; it collapses and crumples easily.
  • Too small for some people.

Product Specs

Material Polyester linen
Size 13.8 x 13.8 x 23.8 in
Special function Collapsible, removable bags
Handles Yes
Weight 1.68 pounds

Our Ratings

Durability
3 / 5
Capacity
4 / 5
Design
3.5 / 5
Portability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Personal Perspective

My experience with this product has been mostly positive; it's easy to assemble and perfect for organizing laundry. I appreciate the washable bag inserts and the fact that it is sturdy enough to hold a week's worth of clothes for two adults. However, the design could be improved by adding a strap across the bottom for easier removal of the bags, and the durability of the handles should be enhanced to withstand heavy loads.

Bamboo Laundry Hamper Tilt-Out With Shelf

Most Stylish Laundry Basket

For laundry lovers looking to stand out, check out this option. It’s a fantastic storage solution and unique hamper. It doubles as a beautiful bamboo shelf and a practical laundry hamper.

While the hamper is on the smaller side, it’s an excellent solution for small apartments. It may also work if you’re good at staying on top of laundry loads. The hamper is removable, so you can easily remove it to take it to the machine.

Pros

  • Stylish, beautiful design.
  • Doubles as a shelf and hamper.
  • Fits small spaces and apartments.
  • Reasonable price point.
  • Natural and eco-friendly bamboo.

Cons

  • Small hamper compartment.
  • Difficult to assemble.

Product Specs

Material Bamboo & Fabric
Size 17.32 x 13 x 37.8 inches
Special function Shelf, removable hamper
Handles No
Weight 13.23 pounds

Our Ratings

Durability
4 / 5
Capacity
3 / 5
Design
5 / 5
Portability
3 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Community Feedback

I'm pleased with this product's aesthetic and functionality in my small apartment bathroom. The assembly process was straightforward, although the instructions could be clearer, and the wood material isn't the sturdiest. Despite some minor issues, such as the door slamming when closing the laundry basket and slight wobbling, this product has been a great addition to my space, with its convenient shelves and adaptable pull-out compartment.

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Material Size Handles Weight
Rev-A-Shelf Pullout Cabinet Pullout Laundry Basket Wire & cloth 18 x 14.75 x 19.375″ No 15.15 lbs
Homest Travel Laundry Bag For Travelling ylon 27.9 x 0.1 x 39.8″ No 7.7 oz
CleverMade Laundry Tote Foldable Laundry Basket Polyester 21.2 x 13.2 x 2″ Yes 2 lbs
Oceanstar Bamboo Laundry Sorter Laundry Basket With Compartments Polyester & bamboo 29.75 x 27 x 19.1″ No 7.38 lbs
Storage Maniac Hanging Hamper For Small Spaces Mesh 13.2 x 1.9 x 17″ Yes 2.33 lbs
Mind Reader Laundry Basket Sturdy Plastic 10.1 x 14.2 x 24″ Yes 4.1 lbs
Lifewit Double Laundry Hamper Includes Removable Bags Polyester 23.2 x 15 x 27.2″ Yes 3.93 lbs
Laundry Bag Backpack Laundry Basket for Laundromat Polyester & polyester blend 11.2 x 10.4 x 1.3″ Yes 1.05 lbs
Portable Laundry Hamper Laundry Hamper With Wheels Polyester 17 x 13.8 x 4.6″ Yes 3.95 lbs
Simplehouseware Laundry Hamper Laundry Hamper With Lid Polypropylene 17.4 x 13.7 x 2.9″ Yes 5.64 lbs
DokeHome Storage Basket For Kids Cotton 13.7 x 13.7 x 17.7″ Yes 7 oz
Like-It Laundry Basket Budget-Friendly Laundry Basket Plastic 13.98 x 17.91 x 9.45″ Yes 1.4 lbs
Seville Water-Hyacinth Hamper Wicker Laundry Basket Hyacinth wicker 22.8 x 13 x 24″ Yes 7 lbs
MCleanPin Laundry Hamper For College Polyester linen 13.8 x 13.8 x 23.8 in Yes 1.68 lbs
Bamboo Laundry Hamper Tilt-Out Stylish Laundry Basket Bamboo & Fabric 17.32 x 13 x 37.8″ No 13.23 lbs

Laundry Basket Vs. Hamper

What’s the difference?

A laundry basket has handles so you can carry it around with you. It’s great for carrying dirty clothes to the laundry room and clean clothes back to the wardrobe.

A laundry hamper, on the other hand, is storage for your dirty clothes. We leave ours in one place, toss our dirty clothes in there, and when it’s laundry day, we remove them for cleaning.

Hampers usually have lids, which helps contain bad smells. Because they are more of a stationary thing, you might want to find a hamper that suits the style of your home.

It’s also best to have a laundry basket and a hamper in your home since they are used for different things.

How To Choose The Best Laundry Basket Or Hamper

When choosing the best laundry basket or hamper, there is a lot to consider.

Size

Laundry baskets and hampers come in various sizes to find the right one for you.

If you have a large family, opt for a bigger hamper. However, if you need something smaller to fit in your apartment, you can also find a modestly sized basket or hamper.

We recommend checking the dimensions of each product to see if it’s the right size for your needs.

Material

Material is important, especially when it comes to aesthetic purposes. Some baskets and hampers look better than others. But each material comes with pros and cons, too.

Plastic

Pros

  • Easy to clean with all-purpose spray.
  • Cheap and budget-friendly.
  • Available in a range of colors.
  • Very durable, it won’t break easily.

Cons

  • Not as aesthetic.
  • Needs regular cleaning.

Steel

Pros

  • Conceals laundry, so it’s out of eyesight.
  • Prevents unpleasant odors.
  • Durable enough to last a few years.

Cons

  • Usually quite expensive.

Fabric

Pros

  • Flexible and collapsable.
  • It saves space since it can be stored easily.
  • Lightweight, usually weighing less than two pounds.

Cons

  • Difficult to clean — you need to put it through the machine.
  • Falls over if too full.

Bamboo Or Wicker

Pros

  • Moisture resistant.
  • Good for bathrooms.
  • Durable materials to last a while.

Cons

  • Can discolor easily.
  • Difficult to clean.
  • Can tear clothes if garments get caught on the fibers.

Portability

If you live somewhere with a communal laundry area, it’s important to think about portability. It’s a good idea to choose something lightweight and with handles.

However, if you plan to leave the hamper in one spot, handles don’t matter. You can transport the clothes to and from the washing machine with a laundry basket.

Ventilation

Ventilation is critical so that damp or sweaty clothes have room to breathe. You don’t want them to go moldy and spread that mold to other clothes (1).

Choose one with a removable lid, or with gaps and holes, like a plastic or wicker basket.

Compartments

One of our favorite features in laundry baskets and hampers are compartments. This is ideal for separating your whites, blacks, and colors.

It’s also good if you have multiple people in your household. You can separate everyone’s clothes so that nothing gets mixed up.


Where Should I Keep My Laundry Basket?

You can keep your laundry basket anywhere in the home. Here are the main options:

  • The bathroom: If the basket has good ventilation, keep it in the bathroom.
  • Laundry room: This is a practical idea since it’s easy to sort and transport to the machine.
  • Near the washing machine: If your machine isn’t in a laundry room (ours is in the kitchen), keep your basket nearby.
  • Bedroom: If this is where you undress at night, it’s easy to toss your dirty clothes in the hamper.
  • Cupboard, closet, or cabinet: This keeps dirty laundry out of sight. It’s great if you don’t want your hamper to interfere with your decor.

What Can I Do With Old Laundry Baskets?

It’s not cool to waste old items. You can do a few creative, eco-friendly things with old laundry baskets.

  • Recycling: If you have old laundry baskets in pretty good condition, use them to store recycling. This works great for any fillable type of baskets or hampers.
  • Keep them in the car: You can use old laundry baskets in the trunk of your car. Keep pet supplies, emergency food, and other items in there to stay organized.
  • Store toys: If your old laundry basket doesn’t work with laundry loads anymore but still has some life left, use it to store toys.
  • Use for plants: We have an old wicker basket in which we put a plant pot. It’s super stylish in our home and good for an old basket.
  • Donate them: If you can’t find any use for your old baskets, donate them. Even if they aren’t in good condition, some facilities will use the material to create an entirely new product.

FAQs

What is a Good Size Laundry Basket?

A good size laundry basket ranges from approximately six to eleven pounds. Most laundry baskets are measured in volume, making the average basket about 60 liters in capacity.

Where Do You Put a Laundry Basket In a Small Bedroom?

The ideal place to put your laundry basket in a small bedroom is where the ceiling slopes, or at the foot of the bed.

How Long Can You Leave Dirty Clothes In a Hamper?

You can leave dirty clothes in a hamper indefinitely, provided that there are no damp garments or wet food stains. Wet clothes encourage mold and mildew growth, which destroys the fabric.

How Do You Clean a Cloth Laundry Basket?

The simple way to clean a cloth laundry basket is to pop it into the washing machine on a high temperature. The heat will kill germs and bacteria and lift the dirtiest stains from the fabric.

How Do You Fix a Crack In a Plastic Laundry Basket?

The best way to fix a crack in a plastic laundry basket is to use plastic glue. Ensure the crack is clean before applying the adhesive. Press the two broken pieces together and hold it while the glue sets.


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About the Author

Beth McCallum

Beth McCallum is a freelance writer & book blogger with a degree in creative writing, journalism, and English literature. Beth firmly believes that a tidy house is a tidy mind. She is always looking for new ways to sustainably clean and tidy her house, that's kind on the environment but effective in the house, too!