Turn A Common Thrift Store Find Into Useful Kitchen Towel Storage

You know the saying, "Things aren't always what they seem"? That couldn't be truer when it comes to thrift store finds. Take a two-tier fruit holder, for example. Instead of holding fruit, it can actually help organize kitchen counter clutter in a stylish way. Glass jars are another thrifted gem you don't want to overlook. Even if they're no longer suited for holding liquids, some can be a worthy investment thanks to their potential resale value, or they can simply double as cute counter or shelf decor.

One of the simplest treasures lurking in thrift stores, though, has to be small baskets. In the kitchen, they can easily double as mini hampers for dish towels. Instead of leaving towels strewn across the counter or stuffed into drawers that could be better used for utensils or organizing storage container lids, dedicate a small basket just for them. You can toss in towels straight from the dryer for more of a relaxed, lived-in look, or fold and stack them neatly if you're going for a more put-together feel.

Even better, if you come across two thrifted baskets in different styles (matching works too), you can create a convenient system for keeping your kitchen laundry in order. One can be reserved for the clean towels while the other is for the dirty ones. You can keep an eye out for something like a Longaberger basket, which is handcrafted and known for its versatility, but really, any small basket that catches your eye and is big enough to hold kitchen towels will work for this.

When bringing a small basket into your kitchen to hold dish towels, the goal is to create order, not add to the chaos. That means choosing a spot that is convenient and intentional. One option is to hang the basket on a wall hook rack, which can also hold small brooms, framed art, or even a cute hanging plant. If you decide to hang two baskets, you can label them "clean" and "dirty" using simple Dollar Tree Crafters Square Chalkboard Tag Clothespins.

Another smart place to store thrifted baskets in the kitchen is on the inside of the under-the-sink cabinet doors. Small Command hooks or over-the-door individual hooks can help with this. Using the basket handles, you can hang one basket on each door. Having two baskets is especially helpful because it means your dirty dishcloths won't end up in your laundry basket, which is a common mistake people make that can cause laundry to smell musty.

Your basket can also live on pantry shelves, on a rolling cart, or tucked neatly under or above a cabinet. You can also use a basket strictly as a dirty towel hamper in the kitchen and keep the clean ones in a drawer. If you decide to do that, consider adding a removable plastic liner to help prevent moisture and odors from soaking into the basket itself. With the right placement, a thrifted basket can be a perfect home for your kitchen towels while adding a bit of charm to the space.