This Repurposed Baguette Basket Proves Storage Can Be Chic And Practical

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Have you ever spotted something in a thrift store or on a secondhand retail site and known immediately that you wanted it? This exact situation happened to @mellcasey, who documented her find — a vintage woven basket baguette holder — on TikTok. She wrote in the caption of her video, "When I saw this French baguette basket, I knew I had to have it!" Once the content creator got the basket home, she realized that this stylish pre-loved piece was a décor opportunity. While she had initially planned to place it in her daughter's room to hold toys, she ultimately decided to turn it into the cutest living room storage solution for extra blankets. The basket, with its delicate wicker construction and high sides, proves that home organization can be whimsical rather than boring or sterile.

How can you find one of these charming baskets for yourself? First, check reselling websites — think Etsy or eBay — to see if you can find anything vintage in your area. You can also peruse local thrift stores. When selecting a secondhand basket for repurposing, look for holes or signs of serious damage, which could affect its function. If you're hoping to infuse your home aesthetic with history, hunt for baskets with a patina. The natural finish gives them an authentic vintage feel. Alternatively, if you are struggling to find suitable old options, consider shopping for an affordable new version, such as the Lacor Wicker Basket for Storing Bread. Once you have your basket in hand, you can start using it in your home as chic, practical storage.

The first step after bringing your baguette basket home is to clean it. This is essential for a vintage find — after all, who knows what kind of life it lived before you bought it. However, even brand new baskets can have dust, smears, and finger marks. For pieces that are simply dirty but still in good condition, soak them in water for no longer than five minutes. Then use a soft brush and some gentle dish soap to remove dirt, grease, and loose debris. If your basket has signs of mold, spray a DIY vinegar cleaning solution onto the surface to kill the spores and improve the appearance. Set the basket aside to dry.

Once the basket is clean and dry, you can explore ways to use your basket in your home for stylish storage. As mentioned, your baguette holder works great for blankets or toy storage, though a fragile antique may break if used in a kids' room. Alternatively, these tall baskets would work well as an entryway catchall for scarves, mittens, and hats. You won't have to bend down too far to drop your items in or retrieve them on your way out the door. An old baguette basket could also be an impressive addition to a guest room, where it can hold spare pillows or towels. If you have a green thumb, use the basket as a receptacle for one or more houseplants, depending on the basket's layout. Keep the plant in its original plastic nursery pot and take it out of the basket to water it.