Tossing your clothes on the floor at the end of a long day is tempting, but it’s a quick way to create a mess. In a few short days, a pile of dirty clothes the size of Mt. Rushmore will appear on that chair you purchased for reading. But fear not: adding a laundry basket or hamper can help you manage your dirty clothes and keep your room tidy.

To choose the best option for you, consider how much laundry you produce on a regular basis, as well as the location of where you do your laundry. Whether you’re looking for a decorative piece of furniture or a functional-first basket, here are a few options to help you manage.

The Classic Plastic Basket

While not the most attractive, the classic laundry basket is a smart addition to your laundry room. Built-in side handles make it easy to carry, and the durable and strong plastic is designed to hold up to one week’s worth of laundry. The laundry basket is stackable as well, making it easy to transport multiple loads of laundry at the same time.

Unlike wicker baskets, plastic baskets have a smooth finish, so they won’t snag or tear your clothes. The well-ventilated design is water resistant, removing the possibility of sweaty clothes becoming moldy. Steer clear, though, if you walk or take public transit to the laundromat. In these situations, you may want to consider a bag.

Bag It Up

A woven laundry bag that hangs on the back of a door or stands upright inside a closet is often a sure fit for people who have to travel to an off-site laundromat. This option works well for college students and those who live in an apartment building. The bag’s drawstring prevents clothes from falling out while on the move.

Because most hanging laundry bags fall apart easily, we suggest a heavy-duty cotton canvas bag. The strong material will prevent any tears at the neck, and make it easier for you to carry when traveling to the laundromat. Furthermore, the fabric is both breathable and machine-washable. Tossing the bag in the wash occasionally can keep it free of any smells, mold, and mildew.

Let’s Talk Hampers

A hamper often adds a touch of elegance and décor to any room; a lovely, woven hamper can shine in the corner of a bedroom, hiding any evidence of dirty laundry. Compared to baskets and bags, hampers are usually taller and thinner, taking up less floor space – ideal for those in tighter spaces.

Since hampers serve one purpose – to store dirty laundry – make sure it’s easy to carry with one hand. The lightweight, easy-to-carry element sets the hamper apart from the wide, double-handled baskets mentioned above.

Ventilation is essential when selecting a hamper. The tall design means that clothes tossed in the hamper at the beginning of the week – or beginning of your laundry cycle – are more likely to develop mold or mildew compared to similar clothes (gym clothes, for example) in a plastic basket. Choosing a hamper with breathable sides, or an airy fabric, will help prevent this from happening and improve air circulation.

The Gold Standard

For the ultimate hamper experience, consider including a built-in hamper or two in your custom closet. The designers at Closet America know how to create spaces that are both functional and beautiful, a nice touch when you’re talking about dirty laundry!

The Final Decision

While there are various styles of hampers, baskets, and laundry bags available, it’s important to consider your personal habits. Choosing the accessory that best suits your needs ultimately allows for a cleaner, more welcoming room.

To learn more about Closet America’s amazing closet organization systems and see some of our beautiful designs, check out our closet ideas and design guide here. To meet one of our professional closet designers, call 800-747-3217 to schedule your FREE design consultation.