How to clean and care for your laundry basket

By Saffron Decor team · 7 November 2026

Hand wash your Laundry Tote basket or bag with mild soap and water, and never put it in a washing machine. Let it dry fully before you fold it or fill it again.

How often to clean it

Empty the basket completely every week or two, and shake out any dust and fluff. Give it a proper hand wash every month or so, or straight away if something spills inside.

How to hand wash it

1. Empty the basket and shake it out.
2. Mix a little mild soap or detergent in a bucket of water.
3. Wash the outside and the cotton lining gently by hand, using a soft cloth or sponge.
4. Rinse with clean water to remove the soap.
5. Press out extra water with a dry towel.

To be safe, avoid bleach and strong cleaners, and don't scrub hard with a brush.

Never use a washing machine

Our baskets and bags are hand wash only. A washing machine can damage the body, the lining and the handles.

Dry it fully

Stand the basket open in a well-aired place until the body and the cotton lining are completely dry. Folding it or filling it while it's still damp can leave it smelling musty.

Keep it fresh day to day

• Don't leave wet towels or damp clothes sitting in it for long.
• Leave the lid open now and then to let air in.
• Wash sports kit and very dirty clothes soon, instead of leaving them in the basket for days.

Fold it away clean

If you're putting a basket away for a while, clean and dry it first, then fold it and store it somewhere dry.

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