Top 10 Creative Ways to Upcycle Wicker Laundry Basket

Have an old wicker laundry basket gathering dust in your home? Before tossing it out, think again! There's a world of possibilities when you choose to upcycle a wicker laundry basket instead of discarding it. With just a little creativity, you can breathe new life into your basket, transforming it into stunning home decor, practical organizers, and charming DIY pieces. Upcycling not only saves money but also supports sustainable living — a philosophy deeply embedded in the ethos of Artera Home. Read on to discover 10 innovative ways to repurpose wicker laundry baskets and make a statement in your home!

Benefits of Recycling Wicker Laundry Baskets?

Choosing to recycle or upcycle wicker laundry baskets isn't just a creative decision, it’s a conscious step toward sustainability and smarter living. Here are some key benefits:

1. Promotes Sustainability

Wicker is made from renewable natural materials like rattan, bamboo, or willow. By recycling or repurposing wicker laundry baskets, you extend the life of these eco-friendly materials, reducing the demand for new resources and minimizing environmental impact.

>> Read more: Discover The Role of Handicrafts for Sustainable Living

2. Reduces Waste

Every item you reuse keeps one less object out of landfills. Recycling wicker baskets helps cut down on household waste, supporting a cleaner, healthier planet for future generations.

>> Related: 10 Easy Ways to Begin Your Sustainable Living Journey

3. Preserves Artisan Craftsmanship

Many wicker baskets, like those offered at Artera Home, are handcrafted by skilled artisans. When you recycle or upcycle these items, you honor the time, artistry, and cultural heritage embedded in every woven strand.

>> Related: Transform Your Home with Authentic Vietnamese Baskets

4. Saves Money

Instead of purchasing new organizers, woven storage baskets, or decor items, you can creatively repurpose wicker laundry baskets to meet your needs. It’s a budget-friendly way to refresh your space without splurging.

5. Adds Unique Character to Your Home

Upcycled wicker pieces bring a personal, one-of-a-kind charm to interiors. Whether transformed into a planter, shelf, or pet bed, they offer texture, warmth, and a sense of storytelling that mass-produced items often lack.

6. Encourages Creative Expression

Recycling and upcycling invite you to unleash your creativity! Personalizing your wicker basket projects helps you cultivate a more meaningful connection to your home environment.

Recycling laundry baskets brings many benefits to life

Top 10 Creative Ways to Upcycle Wicker Laundry Basket

Transforming an old basket into something beautiful is easier than you think! Here are 10 creative ways to upcycle wicker laundry baskets into stylish, functional pieces for your home.

1. Turn It Into a Chic Planter

Bring greenery indoors by turning your wicker basket into a decorative planter. Line the inside with plastic or a waterproof liner to hold soil and water safely. This natural-textured piece will perfectly complement your indoor plants and elevate your boho-style décor.

Tip: Pair your upcycled planter basket with trailing plants like pothos or ferns for a lush, cascading look!

>> Read more: How to Make a Planter Waterproof?

Recycle laundry basket into plant pot

2. Design a Cozy Pet Bed

Your furry friend deserves a cozy corner, too! Add a plush pillow or blanket to the inside of a wicker laundry basket to create a stylish pet bed. This project is both adorable and sustainable — and your pet will love it.

Bonus: Choose a neutral-toned cushion to seamlessly fit into your home’s aesthetic.

>> Read more: Are water hyacinths safe for pets?

Recycle laundry basket into pet bed

3. Make a Vintage Light Fixture

Want a DIY project that's sure to impress? Turn your rattan laundry basket into a gorgeous pendant light! After reinforcing the structure and installing a secure light socket, you’ll have a unique woven lamp that casts beautiful shadows and gives your room a cozy, handmade feel.

Ceiling lamp made from woven basket

4. Make a Chic Storage Stool

Looking for trendy storage and extra seating? You can easily repurpose a wicker laundry basket into a storage stool. Add a padded top and sturdy legs and you have a charming piece that’s perfect for storing blankets, toys or magazines while still serving as a comfortable seat.

>> Read more: How to Restore Old Wicker Baskets for Timeless Beauty

Recycled stool from woven laundry basket

5. Recycle into a Stylish Picnic Basket

With a few easy changes — like adding a sturdy handle, a lining, and maybe some decorative ribbon — your old laundry basket can become the ultimate picnic companion. Lightweight yet sturdy, rattan is the perfect material for carrying food and drinks on your next outdoor adventure.

Picnic basket made from woven laundry basket

6. Turn It Into a Toy Storage Unit for a Kid’s Room

Tame toy chaos by turning your wicker basket into a charming toy bin. Lightweight and portable, it’s easy for kids to reach and helps teach them the importance of organization from an early age. Plus, the natural material complements a variety of decor styles, from modern to farmhouse.

>> Read more: How To Disinfect Wicker Baskets Safely at Home

Woven laundry basket as toy basket

7. Entryway Shoe Storage

If you are looking for an upcycle wicker laundry basket for shoe storage ideas, try turning an old wicker laundry basket into a stunning wicker basket shoe organizer for entryway. Just clean the basket, add a canvas or plastic lining for durability. The basket can hold indoor shoes, sandals or small umbrellas.

Woven shoe basket

8. DIY Bird Nest

Repurposed wicker laundry baskets for bird nests are a great way to create a lovely handmade bird nest in the garden. Choose a sturdy wicker basket, hang it on a sturdy tree branch with natural rope or thin steel wire. Line the inside of the basket with dry straw, grass or soft cloth to create softness. Cut a small opening on one side of the basket to make it easy for birds to nest.

Bird nest made from woven basket

9. Rustic Outdoor Mailbox

Recycle an old wicker laundry basket into a rustic DIY mailbox from the seagrass basket for your yard. Coat the basket with a weather-resistant paint to protect it from the elements, then securely attach it to a wooden post or wall. Decorate it with natural rope or rustic faux flowers for added appeal. Don’t forget to write your house number or family name in white paint to stand out on the basket.

>> Read more: Can You Paint Wicker Furniture?

Mailbox made from wicker basket

10. Holiday Gift Basket

Turn an old wicker laundry water hyacinth basket into a great upcycle wicker laundry basket for Christmas gift for special occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas. Clean the basket, line it with kraft paper or linen, and arrange small gifts like handmade cookies, scented candles, and mini wines. Decorate with a wide red, yellow, or green ribbon, add pine needles, pine cones, or handwritten paper tags to add a festive touch. Finally, wrap the basket with clear plastic wrap for an elegant and safe gift.

Woven baskets made into gift baskets

Important Notes When Recycling Wicker Laundry Baskets

1. Clean the Basket

Before starting any recycling project, make sure your basket is thoroughly cleaned. Use a dry cloth or soft brush to remove dirt. If the basket is moldy, wipe it gently with a damp cloth mixed with diluted vinegar and let it dry in the shade. A clean basket will not only make the finished product look better, but it will also ensure safety for long-term use.

>> Read more: How to Clean Wicker Baskets – Simple & Effective Guide

2. Reinforce the Structure of Necessary

Some old baskets may become weak or loose over time. Before reusing, carefully inspect the basket frame. Use hot glue, thin wire, or strong rope to reinforce areas that need reinforcement. This is especially important if you plan to use the basket for heavy-duty purposes such as a footstool or outdoor storage box.

3. Protect the Wicker Material

If the basket will be exposed to moisture, such as when used outdoors or in the garden, apply a coat of clear paint or an environmentally friendly water-repellent. This protective layer will help increase the life of the basket, while maintaining its color and durability over time.

>> Related: How To Waterproof A Wicker Basket for Long-Lasting Use

4. Add a Personal Touch

To give your recycled basket a unique style, you can paint it in a light pastel color, add burlap, or decorate it with ribbons, wooden tags, artificial flowers, etc. These small details will help the final product blend in with your living space and personal preferences.

5. Prioritize Using High-Quality Baskets

From the beginning, choose good quality wicker laudry baskets, handcrafted by skilled artisans, such as products from Artera Home. High-quality baskets are not only more beautiful but also durable, easy to recycle into many useful items without worrying about quick damage.

Artera Home’s wicker basket

Top 5 Best Wicker Laundry Baskets From Artera Home 

1. Lidded Water Hyacinth Basket with Handles and Linen, Set of 2

Crafted from natural water hyacinth, this lidded basket set from Artera Home offers both durability and versatile style — perfect for creative upcycling projects. The sturdy design and varied sizes make it easy to repurpose for storage, decor, or organization. Plus, it's now on sale for up to 80% off, giving you the perfect opportunity to own beautifully handcrafted, eco-friendly baskets at an unbeatable price!

Lidded Water Hyacinth Basket with Handles and Linen, Set of 2

2. Large Water Hyacinth Laundry Basket With Lid

Elevate your home organization with Artera Home’s Large Water Hyacinth Laundry Basket with Lid. Handwoven from sustainable materials, this sturdy, lightweight basket blends natural beauty with everyday practicality. Ideal for laundry, toys, or creative upcycling projects, its classic look fits effortlessly into any decor. Even better, it’s now available at up to 80% off—making it the perfect time to invest in artisanal craftsmanship and lasting quality!

Large Water Hyacinth Laundry Basket With Lid

3. Cube Seagrass Wicker Basket With Linen Set of 2

The Cube Seagrass Wicker Basket Set with Linen from Artera Home is the perfect blend of style and functionality. Handwoven from natural seagrass, each basket features a sturdy frame and removable linen liner, making it ideal for organizing laundry or repurposing into creative home decor. Its clean, modern design complements any space effortlessly. Even better, it's currently on sale for up to 80% off—an incredible opportunity to own artisanal quality at an unbeatable value!

Cube Seagrass Wicker Basket With Linen Set of 2

4. Oversize Water Hyacinth Storage Basket Collection, Set of 6

Beautifully handwoven from sustainable water hyacinth, this versatile 6-piece basket set offers natural charm and incredible durability. Perfect for laundry, storage, or creative upcycling projects, each basket features sturdy handles and a timeless, rustic look. With multiple sizes included, it's easy to organize any space elegantly. Even better, this artisan-crafted set is currently on sale for up to 80% off — the perfect opportunity to invest in lasting quality and style!

Oversize Water Hyacinth Storage Basket Collection, Set of 6

5. Natural Brown Standing Basket with Handles

This Natural Brown Standing Basket with Handles from Artera Home is an ideal blend of functionality and style. Crafted from high-quality wicker, it offers a sturdy structure with ample space for laundry or storage. The built-in handles make it easy to carry, while the natural brown color adds a rustic, timeless touch to any home. Perfect for those looking to organize their space, this versatile basket is also an excellent choice for upcycling projects, turning it into a stylish home decor piece. A must-have for both utility and aesthetics.

Natural Brown Standing Basket with Handles

Why Choose Artera Home's Wicker Baskets?

At Artera Home, we take pride in creating ethically-sourced, high-quality wicker baskets handmade by Vietnamese artisans. Each piece tells a story of tradition, craftsmanship, and sustainable living.

Whether you're looking to upcycle a wicker laundry basket or find a new favorite home accessory, our collections are designed to inspire creativity and conscious living.

By choosing Artera Home, you support:

• Artisan Communities preserving traditional weaving techniques
  
• Eco-Friendly Materials that honor the environment
  
• Sustainable Living with beautiful, durable products built to last

Explore our collection today and find the perfect basket to upcycle or use in your home!

Upcycling wicker laundry baskets is a fun, eco-friendly way to add a unique, personalized touch to your home. From stylish planters to chic storage solutions, the possibilities are endless. Upcycling not only saves money, but it also supports sustainability and preserves artisan craftsmanship. Ready to get creative? Browse Artera Home’s beautiful collection of handcrafted rattan baskets and start your next DIY project today. Embrace sustainable living and bring timeless beauty to your space with Artera Home’s handcrafted products!