Plastic, colorful and trendy tubs fill shopping store aisles for organizers to store everything from Christmas trees to clothing. We are busier than ever and we need a place to put our stuff, and the retailers have heard our cries to get organized. What they have forgotten was to offer storage solutions that fit into our homey decorum. For storage savvy and attractive surroundings, behold the basket.

In the Bathroom
Fold wash cloths once lengthwise and roll. Fill the basket and allow the family to draw from there. You can do the same thing with towels and a larger basket. Assign a tote basket to each family member to keep his or her bathroom belongings. This helps clear bathroom space and is an easy way to divide what belongs to whom. And don't forget that toilet paper can stand inside a basket instead of hanging from the wall.

In the Kitchen
A whimsical use of baskets in the kitchen includes more than linens. Use a flat-squared basket for napkins. No more fussing with the drawer insert to stack the spoons. Plop the flatware into a picnic server and set it on the counter top.

In the Living Area
The living area benefits with separate baskets for magazines, potpourri and remote control storage.

In the Closet
Closets can use baskets, too. Baskets can store baseball and knit caps, mittens, gloves and umbrellas in the entryway of your home.

Everywhere Else
Baskets can be used just about anywhere. Much more attractive than an old box, dirty gardening tools suddenly look pretty. Use them in children's bedrooms to store toys, in the garage for odds and ends on the work bench, and by the front door for incoming mail and magazines. The possibilities are endless!

Once considered suitable only for sewing items or Easter gifts, the basket has evolved into a tool no home should be without. From flat squares to figure-eight shapes, these trustworthy totes can serve your family in some surprisingly handy and inexpensive ways. So start using the storing power of baskets and beautify your home.

About the Author
Sabrina Glidden is an organizing consultant and columnist, living and working in Central Indiana. Visit her site here.

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