What size laundry basket do you need?

For a family of four, a basket of about 50 to 70 litres is a common choice, and it holds a few days of laundry. For six or more people, look at 80 litres or use two baskets.

Those figures are only a starting point. How often you wash matters as much as how many people live at home.

Start with how often you wash

If you wash every day or two, a smaller basket is enough. If you wash once or twice a week, choose a bigger one, so clothes don't pile up beside it.

Measure the space first

Before you choose by litres, measure where the basket will stand. Check the floor space, and leave room to open the lid. In a small bathroom or bedroom corner, a tall, narrow basket usually fits better than a wide one.

Look at the measurements, not only the litres

Two baskets with the same litres can be very different shapes. Check the width, depth and height in centimetres before you buy. The litres below are worked out from the outer measurements.

ProductSizeAboutGood for
Foldable Laundry Basket, Large36 × 36 × 58 cm75 litresFamilies, or washing once or twice a week
Foldable Laundry Basket, Medium36 × 36 × 46 cm60 litresCouples, smaller rooms
Circular Large36 cm across, 59 cm high60 litresCorners where a round shape fits better
Foldable Iron Laundry Bag42 × 30 × 32 cm40 litresCarrying clothes to and from ironing

Which should you choose?

The Large and Medium have the same 36 × 36 cm base, so they take up the same floor space. If you have the height, the Large gives you more room in the same spot.

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