Creative Baskets Under Console Tables: Smart Storage Solutions

Console tables serve many purposes in home decor. They make great entryway furniture for dropping keys or displaying flowers. They also work well behind a couch for extra lamp lighting. However, the space under console tables often goes unused. This is a missed opportunity!

Baskets under console tables are a creative way to add storage and style. Whether placed in an entryway or living room, baskets can hide clutter while complementing your decor. Keep reading to learn about the benefits of baskets under console tables and tips for choosing and styling them.

Benefits of Baskets Under Console Tables

Here are some of the top reasons to use baskets under console tables:

• Keep Entryways Clutter-Free: Baskets prevent mess by corralling keys, sunglasses, dog leashes, and other small items. Having a designated spot to toss these items when coming inside keeps entryways tidy.
• Hide Small Items: Keep TV remotes, chargers, cables, and other gadgets out of sight but within reach. Getting tech accessories off table surfaces streamlines the look of a space.
• Extra Storage: Fill unused space under a console table with baskets for books, blankets, or shoes. This previously overlooked real estate can now be utilized.
• Quick Access: Keep frequently needed things like flashlights, pet leashes, or skin care products in easy-to-grab baskets. No more hunting when you know exactly where to reach.
• Flexible Organization: Use baskets to sort items by person, category, or frequency of use. Multiple baskets allow customized organization.

Baskets are great for optimizing tight spaces like under console tables. Their versatility and style make them a functional and decorative choice. Taking advantage of this vacant space gets your belongings neatly ordered and your home organized.

Choosing the Right Baskets

Several factors go into choosing baskets well-suited for stashing under console tables:

Measure Console Table Space

Whip out a tape measure to check the height, width, and depth of the open space under your console table. This ensures you select baskets that actually fit the allotted area. It also helps determine the best basket shape - some tables may accommodate better with rectangular vs. square baskets based on dimensions.

Consider Items to be Stored

Assess the items you want to keep in your baskets in terms of size, shape, weight, and quantity. For example, several pairs of shoes need a larger, more structured basket than a few remotes. Measuring the items gives you an idea of basket proportions and capacity required.

Evaluate Basket Dimensions

Match basket measurements as closely as possible to the items being stored and the area underneath your console table. This maximizes your space and prevents selecting baskets that are either too big or too small. An ideal fit allows easy access without wasted room.

Factor in Shape and Structure

The shape and structure of baskets directly impact how much they can hold. For larger or heavier items like shoes or books, choose baskets with more structured sides that won't collapse when full. Round baskets maximize awkward angled spaces better than square. Rectangular baskets make neat stacks.

Consider Style and Decor

Choose basket textures, colors, patterns, and materials that coordinate well with your overall decor. Baskets under a dark wood farmhouse console table would look best in natural fibers like rattan or seagrass with warm neutral tones. Match metal baskets to the finishes found throughout a contemporary, sleek space.

Assess Durability

Check basket construction and materials to ensure sufficient sturdiness and durability for your needs. Items going in and out over time require baskets made of quality materials that won't fray, dent, or break. For frequent access, woven woods, wicker, metals, and high-density plastics are good options.

Evaluate Ease of Cleaning

Depending on planned use, evaluate how easily baskets can be cleaned or spot treated. Materials like plastic, metal, and smooth woods clean up well. Delicate fabrics or absorbent materials like straw may stain over time.

Best Materials for Baskets Under Console Tables

Certain basket materials pair especially well with being stashed under console tables. Consider these top options:

Wicker Baskets

Wicker baskets have a breezy, natural style perfect for coastal, farmhouse, or bohemian decors. The woven construction is surprisingly strong yet lightweight enough for easy access to contents. Wicker also breathes well, preventing musty smells from developing. Round hamper-style baskets work great for holding shoes or loose items.

Metal Baskets

Sleek metal baskets inject an industrial vibe, well-suited for modern spaces. They come in silver, copper, black, gold and more - allowing you to match console table finishes. Metal baskets are extremely durable; ideal for frequent use. Some have ventilation holes or mesh panels to see inside. Sturdy frame construction prevents collapse.

Woven Wood Baskets

Casual and natural, woven wood baskets complement many decor styles from traditional to eclectic. Varieties like pine and banana leaf have organic texture. Sturdy yet smooth sides make accessing contents easy. The materials are lightweight but rigid enough for stacking. Rectangular shapes maximize space utilization.

Rattan Baskets

For tropical flair, rattan baskets add natural elegance and cohesion. Waterproof and smooth, rattan handles daily use well. Its lightweight flexibility allows rattan baskets to fit into curved console table spaces. The neutral coloring blends into any color palette.

Fabric Baskets

Soft structured fabric baskets lend flexibility for stashing tiny items or creating a collapsible basket. Choose cotton, canvas, polyester or nylon blends. These nest neatly when not in use but have less shaping ability than solid materials. Best for low-weight objects like remotes or office supplies.

Creative Ways to Use Baskets Under Console Tables

Baskets under console tables in entryways or living rooms can hold a variety of must-have items. Get inspired by these clever ideas:

Entryway Catch-All

Toss keys, sunglasses, reusable shopping bags, dog leashes, phones, wallets, gloves - all the odds and ends acquired on your journeys outside - into a designated basket when coming inside. This catches the clutter before it scatters around the house.

Office Supplies

Stash extra pens, sticky notes, paper clips, stamps, spare batteries, chargers, glue sticks and other desk supplies in baskets. Keep them under your console table workspace for easy access when tackling projects or tasks without having to leave your spot.

Charging Station

Use baskets to neatly corral devices, cords, power strips, and chargers in one place. Assign baskets for each family member or device type. This keeps charging organized and wires untangled.

Entertainment Accessories

TV and gaming remote controls, game controllers, streaming devices, headphones, 3D glasses and other electronics can accumulate. Designated baskets neatly contain these accessories within reach.

Reading Nook Items

Stash books, e-readers, reading lights, blankets, pillows, and reading glasses in baskets for cozy lounge sessions. Everything you need is at your fingertips.

Bathroom Toiletries

Use woven baskets to organize cotton swabs, cotton balls, soaps, lotions, razors, extra toilet paper rolls, and other bathroom supplies. Woven surfaces allow ventilation to prevent mildew.

Kitchen Gadgets

Store infrequently used kitchen tools like apple corers, garlic presses, cherry pitters, straws, rolling pins, aprons, and oven mitts organized together in baskets. You'll know right where to find them when needed.