Cleaning Your Home Decorative Baskets

I use baskets to organize and decorate at the same time all over my home.

Rummaging around in my bathroom the other day I noticed that a few baskets were in need of a cleaning. Dusty, dirty baskets in a bathroom can really detract from the beautiful decor you may have going. I have baskets that I purchased at estate sales and garage sales that looked pretty icky to the naked eye.

But a lovely cleaned up basket can really add to your home. So if you have a few in storage that you were afraid to bring out because they needed a cleaning I’m going to give you a few tips to polish up your baskets.

Baskets, especially unpainted reed ones, can take a little bit of water so that is nice to know.  Make it one of your annual spring cleaning chores to clean your reed baskets to keep them in good shape.

Wicker Baskets:

For a mild cleaning dust your baskets with a soft brush such as a paint brush or a feather duster. Dust all over, including the bottom of your baskets.

You can also vacuum up dirt dust and cobwebs from your baskets. Use the upholstery attachment and gently go over all parts of your basket.

If you basket is a bit dirtier with water and using a soft cloth gently go over your basket.

If your basket is of the antique, family heirloom variety use extra care when cleaning.

Reed Baskets:

Reed baskets are put together with wet reeds so these will take a little more water better.

To clean you reed basket hose it off outside or in your shower. Let it dry thoroughly before using again.

I have purchased a couple of baskets with dirt, grime, and odors that I gave a NOT RECOMMENDED deep cleaning to. These were baskets that I purchased for pennies. But they were beautiful. These got a deep dunking and lots of soap. They now reside wonderfully in my home. But again if you can avoid this that is best.


Baskets are nice way to add a warm touch to your decor. You can use them in any room in the home and they can be had for very little cost.