Best Laundry Baskets, According to CR Staffers
These laundry baskets make hauling, sorting, and storing clothes easier.
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With so many laundry baskets on the market, what constitutes “the best” depends on whom you ask, since everyone’s needs are different. If you have limited space, you might opt for a basket that tucks away neatly. But if you haul laundry up stairs or across rooms, you may prefer a sturdier option with handles that won’t dig into your hands.
To find out which models truly stand out, I asked CR staffers—many of whom have tried a wide variety of laundry baskets—to weigh in. Their top picks ultimately come down to a few key factors: ease of carrying, thoughtful design, and materials that are both durable and easy to clean. Spoiler: One recommendation even doubles as a cat bed.
If you’re looking for more recommendations for everyday home essentials, check our full coverage of hair dryers, glass cleaners, dish soap, and more.
Our Favorite Laundry Baskets
Torkis Flexible Laundry Basket
Material: Plastic
Dimensions: 10¾x24½ inches (LxH)
Capacity: 9 gallons
The Torkis design is made entirely of flexible plastic, so there’s no need to worry about it cracking like many traditional baskets. CR staffer Stephanie Davis notes it’s “flexible enough to hold both handles in one hand” yet “sturdy enough to hold its shape” when resting on your hip—a noticeable advantage when juggling a full load. It’s the kind of thoughtful detail you appreciate when powering through laundry day and need a basket that works with you, not against you. Plus, it comes in fun colors—including green, light blue, pink, and yellow—that you can use to help sort laundry.
Black+Decker Collapsible Laundry Basket
Material: Plastic
Dimensions: 24x17.2x10.7 inches (LxWxH)
Capacity: Not stated
The Black+Decker Collapsible Laundry Basket expands to hold a full load, but folds nearly flat, making it easy to tuck between the washer and wall or slide under a bed. “It takes up very little space when it’s not in use,” says CR staffer Jodhaira Rodriguez. She notes it’s “big enough to hold a full, large load of laundry” and “comfortable enough to carry, even when full, up and down a flight of stairs.” And because it isn’t made of fabric, cleanup is simple—just a quick swipe with a cleaning wipe when needed.
Joseph Joseph Tota 90L Ecru Laundry Separation Basket
Material: 100% Cotton interior, polyester exterior
Dimensions: 28x22¼x15¾ inches (HxWxL)
Capacity: 90 liters
The Joseph Joseph Tota 90L Laundry Separation Basket features two 45-liter compartments, making it easy to separate light and dark colors as you go. Removable laundry bags let you carry loads without hauling the entire hamper, and they’re machine-washable—a standout feature for Rodriguez, who’s usually hesitant to use soft baskets out of concern they’ll retain odors from dirty laundry, but says, “this remedies that.” Not to mention, it comes in four colors to complement any decor—including a multicolor option that’s perfect for a child’s bedroom or playroom.
Pop N’ Load Collapsible Laundry Basket 2-pack
Material: Plastic, rubber
Dimensions: 25x18x11 inches (LxWxH)
Capacity: Not stated
For a straightforward, long-lasting solution, the Pop N’ Load Collapsible Laundry Basket set is a reliable choice. “I like it because the handles are comfortable, it holds a good amount of laundry, and I can collapse it to save space if needed. I must have gotten them 10 years ago, and they’ve held up well,” says CR staffer (and laundry maestro) Rich Handel. Plus, since it comes as a two-pack, it’s easy to manage multiple loads without any hassle.
CleverMade Collapsible Laundry Tote 2-Pack
Material: Polyester
Dimensions: 22x15x11¼ inches (LxWxH)
Capacity: 50 liters
The CleverMade Collapsible Laundry Tote is more of a utility player than a basic basket, handling laundry and just about anything else life throws your way. CR staffer Marci Whalen owns several in different sizes, and says they’re “easy to fill with everything from gifts to toys to baking dishes.” Thanks to a reinforced frame and sturdy base, the tote holds a full load without collapsing, and when not in use folds down flat for easy storage. The same staffer adds, “they’re also very durable,” making them the kind of item you’ll find yourself reaching for for other tasks—not just when it’s time to do laundry.
Ikea Jäll Laundry Bag
Material: Polyethylene (bag), steel (rack)
Dimensions: 22x15x11 inches (LxWxH)
Capacity: 13 gallon
This budget-friendly bag holds a surprisingly large load for how minimal it looks. It also folds down when not in use, which is ideal if storage space is limited. CR staffer Romy Vreeland shared that it’s “really easy to carry," since it’s flexible and lightweight. They also pointed out how low-maintenance it is. Debris like sand or dirt falls right out, and it can be wiped clean if needed—making it a practical option for everyday use without extra upkeep.
Rubbermaid Hip-Hugger Laundry Basket
Material: Plastic
Dimensions: 25.34x17.69x10 inches (LxWxH)
Capacity: 32 liters
For those who prefer a more traditional basket but want something that doesn’t bend or warp when it’s loaded, the Rubbermaid Hip-Hugger Laundry Basket is a dependable pick. CR staffer Wendy Greenfield says this one feels noticeably studier than other laundry baskets she owns. “This one feels much more solid. The others bend with the weight when they’re full of clothes, and the handles will snap off. This one is more rigid. And I can carry it with one hand if I need to,” she says. Made of strong, impact-resistant plastic, it stands up to everyday use, and its wide handles make it comfortable to carry without it digging into your hands.
