Try saying that five times fast!  So, if you are anything like me then you most likely have children very similar to mine, they forget where everything goes - backpack, coat, those little pieces of stuff from their pockets - honestly, where does that come from?  With children like ours, we sometimes have baskets, usually laundry baskets - scattered throughout the hall or mudroom, or the extra space - to collect all of those things.  Each basket has an assigned owner, so they always know where to toss it.

Now, I really don’t mind having the baskets for my children.  They know where they are, the backpack always is placed in it after homework is finished, and the best thing of all - they always know where it is! No running around in the morning trying to find this or that.  What I don’t like is that they are laundry baskets and I unfortunately don’t have the extra space to keep them hide away from guests.

I began looking up some neat replacements and I know that means spending a little money for something a bit more decorative, but this time I want something that everyone in the family can use and can help spice up the room that it will be placed in.  So, I am thinking of something along these lines.  Not this exact one, but you get the idea.

But, remember, using your imagination can save you a ton of money.  There is no need to run out and buy storage if you don’t plan to increase the use.  If you just want to dress up the current look, here are a few pointers.

For a girl basket: allow your daughter to decorate her own basket using colorful ribbons, stickers, and lettering.  Ribbons are inexpensive and can be found highly discounted and in bulk at fabric stores.  Weave large ribbons throughout the spaces on the laundry basket, using various colors to match her personality.  Crafts stores also have cute little ornamental bugs, such as butterflies, dragonflies, and lady bugs.  Take off the backing and adhere to the basket.  Voila!

For a boy basket: using sports cards from his favorite team will liven up the basket.  Craft stores have the same ornamental items in sports as well.  He can place basketballs or baseballs all over the place.  Another thought, have him place memorable dates of his favorite games and what he scores were.  Always there to remember!

Allowing your children to use their imagination to create a basket they will enjoy will also open up their creativity and let their personality shine through.

This is an original Simple Home Basics post.