Rattan baskets

What is a rattan basket?

Rattan is the core material of the rattan palm and is among the most durable natural materials for wickerwork. A rattan basket combines high stability with low weight, is dimensionally stable and strong, and adds a warm, natural touch to any interior. Thanks to the dense weave it’s ideal for storing blankets, toys, magazines or firewood. Many models are versatile – from the woven basket with lid to the rectangular shelf basket and the large round basket. With the right care, a rattan basket will stay beautiful and functional for many years, indoors as well as in the sheltered outdoor area.

Natural rattan or polyrattan?

Both materials have clear strengths. For living spaces and decorative storage, natural rattan is the first choice: it feels warm, is very stable and develops an attractive patina over time. Polyrattan is a synthetic weave that’s especially weather-resistant and low-maintenance, making it ideal for permanent outdoor use. As a robust outdoor complement, lightweight XXL planters for outdoors are a smart option.

• Natural rattan: Warm and authentic, very robust and repair-friendly. Perfect for large rattan baskets, a rectangular rattan basket or as a rattan log basket. At Eliassen we use especially thick, solid rattan.
• Polyrattan: UV- and weather-resistant, easy to clean, uniform look. Ideal outdoors when a low-maintenance weave is required.

Our range focuses on handwoven baskets made from natural rattan. Selected rattan planter baskets come with inserts or liners so they also work perfectly in sheltered outdoor spaces.

Rattan baskets in the home: functions and ideas

Rattan baskets let you organise every room in style. In the living room, rectangular baskets hold magazines, books or remotes, while large round baskets accommodate cushions and throws. In the bedroom or hallway, a rattan laundry collector with or without lid keeps things tidy. In the kitchen, smaller models serve as a rattan bread basket or rattan cutlery basket, while sturdy baskets in the kids’ room store toys safely. For shelves, a rattan shelf basket and square rattan baskets create made-to-measure space. Handy for everyday use are baskets with handles – the rattan basket with handle is easy to carry, for example when tidying up. Popular sizes range from compact 30x30x30 cm to large rattan baskets and XXL models that also work as a rattan trunk basket or rattan box.

Rattan baskets with lids: practical and decorative

Rattan baskets with lids are all-rounders for visible areas. They discreetly hide laundry, toys or office supplies and create a calm, tidy look. In living and bedrooms, large baskets act as a trunk basket for throws or seasonal textiles. In the bathroom, a rattan laundry basket with lid helps keep moisture and odours in check – with a liner bag everything stays hygienic. In the kids’ room, a rattan box with lid or woven basket with lid ensures blocks and cuddly toys are quickly stowed away. Rectangular variants use corners optimally – perfect as a large square basket or a rectangular basket with lid.

• Tidy at a glance: Lids create a calm surface and conceal contents – ideal for open-plan living.
• Hygienic and practical: For laundry baskets we recommend inner bags. They keep the weave dry and clean.
• Formats for every purpose: Round for cushions and throws, a rectangular rattan basket for shelves and cupboards, cylindrical for tight niches.
• Maximise storage: Trunk baskets and large chests offer ample volume – as a large rattan basket with lid they’re ideal for the hallway, living room or kids’ room.
• Everyday comfort: Models with handles make carrying easier. Look for neatly finished grips and reinforced rims.

Tip for choosing: measure the space and compare internal and external dimensions. For shelves, sizes like 32x34x32 cm are common, while XXL baskets with diameters up to 80 cm offer plenty of volume for throws or firewood.

Rattan planter baskets for indoors and outdoors

Rattan planter baskets add natural structure to potted plants. Indoors they serve as decorative cachepots – ideal for monstera, small olive trees or silk bouquets. Outdoors we recommend versions with an insert or inner container to keep the weave dry. As maintenance-free green accents, artificial plants for baskets also arrange beautifully in rattan baskets. For year-round sheltered areas, rattan planter basket outdoor variants with a waterproof liner are suitable. Larger formats are especially popular – a large rattan planter basket highlights specimen plants. On plant tables & pedestals you can present baskets and plants in style. For a natural material mix, terracotta pots & jars pair perfectly with rattan. As a stylish contrast, modern design vases & pots are a great choice. During Advent, a Christmas tree rattan basket is a fitting upgrade – as a sturdy basket for Christmas tree it provides a clean, decorative base. For outdoor use, ensure drainage holes in the insert and a slightly raised stand so moisture can run off.

Quality and craftsmanship at Eliassen

Eliassen stands for craftsmanship: our baskets are handwoven from solid, extra-thick rattan – for high stability, strong edges and long service life. You’ll find round, oval and cylindrical shapes as well as rectangular models for shelves. The range spans from compact organisers to large rattan baskets in XXL, which also excel as a large rattan log basket. Handles and rims are carefully reinforced so even fully loaded baskets are comfortable to carry. The result: long-lasting rattan storage basket solutions that combine design and function perfectly.

Care and cleaning of rattan

Rattan is easy to care for. Regular dusting and occasionally wiping with a slightly damp cloth and mild soapy water is sufficient. Use a soft brush to lift dust from the weave, then let the basket air-dry completely. Avoid standing water and prolonged moisture – this preserves shape and strength. Prolonged, intense sunlight can dry out the material; place baskets outdoors in a sheltered spot where possible. In the bathroom, a liner bag helps keep the weave clean. If a basket does get wet, place it in a warm, well-ventilated area until completely dry.

Rattan vs. willow: which is right for you?

Both rattan and willow are natural weaving materials but differ in feel, look and load-bearing capacity. Rattan is denser and very dimensionally stable, making it ideal for larger formats, rectangular baskets and heavier contents like wood or magazines. Willow is often lighter, very flexible and visually finer, perfect for classic wicker baskets and accessories.

• Advantages of rattan: High stability, long-lasting, ideal for a large rattan basket, a rectangular basket and a rattan log basket.
• Advantages of willow: Lightweight, flexible, traditional look – popular as a classic willow basket for shopping.
• Outdoors: Natural materials prefer dry conditions. Use sheltered spots or models with inserts outside. For permanently exposed outdoor settings, polyrattan is the more robust choice.

Decide based on location and load: for structured storage on shelves, larger dimensions or heavier contents, rattan shines. For light, classic wicker baskets, willow is a beautiful alternative.

Colors and styles: Kubu grey, natural and whitewashed

With the right colour, your rattan basket fits your interior perfectly. Kubu grey rattan baskets look modern and calm – ideal for Scandinavian and minimalist interiors. Natural tones bring warmth and authentic structure, perfect with wood and boho looks. Whitewashed surfaces add airy, maritime accents and brighten dark corners. Many formats – from a grey rattan basket to a whitewashed rattan basket with lid – are available in multiple sizes so you can create a harmonious set for shelf, floor and sideboard.

Why order from Eliassen?

Good reasons: handwoven quality made from solid rattan, many shapes and sizes – from compact shelf baskets to XXL. Customers in Germany often order from us at better prices than local providers. Visit our showroom in the Netherlands to see much of the collection – with free parking. Convenient payment options, secure delivery and availability for Germany and parts of Austria and Switzerland make shopping easy.

FAQ about rattan baskets

Are rattan baskets suitable for the bathroom?

Yes, rattan baskets work very well in bathrooms as long as they don’t sit in constant moisture. Use a liner bag for laundry and position baskets so air can circulate. After showering, moisture should be able to escape. For very wet zones or persistent damp, inserts make sense – they keep the weave dry and dimensionally stable.

Which basket is suitable as a log basket?

Choose a sturdy rattan log basket with reinforced rim and solid handles. Large round or cylindrical baskets offer plenty of volume – for example as a large rattan log basket for longer logs. Look for a robust, dense weave and a hard-wearing interior so edges don’t splinter. Felt pads protect delicate floors from scratches.

How do I find the right size and shape?

Measure the space and compare internal and external dimensions. Popular formats are 30x30x30 cm for shelves and 32x34x32 cm for a little more volume. Square rattan baskets use cupboard and shelf space efficiently; round baskets are ideal for cushions and throws. For maximum capacity, choose XXL models up to Ø 80 cm.

Is natural rattan suitable outdoors, or do I need polyrattan?

In sheltered outdoor areas, natural rattan works very well with an insert or inner container. Avoid prolonged wetness and place the basket on feet or a dry base. For permanently exposed areas and harsh weather, polyrattan is the more robust option. As a rattan planter basket outdoor, we recommend models with a waterproof liner.