What do dirty clothes, a stack of coloring books, and shoes have in common? If nothing is coming to mind, then perhaps a second look is in order. Laundry hampers arent just for laundry, and theyre not that typical white plastic lidded tub anymore either. To start, they come in different materials, shapes and sizes, and with different elements of decor.

Lets first think of the typical waist-high laundry hamper we all know and love. This cant be used for much else other than dirty (or clean) clothing, can it? The truth is, this classic container can be used to house toys if need be, or even shoes. This type of hamper is great for the college students dorm room.

Laundry baskets have taken a step up in the past few years or so, as well, becoming a more classic and chic item which we refer to now as the hamper. Featuring linen-lined wicker numbers that create a clean line for storing things like books or toys. You can even find them color-coordinated to match your nursery or bathroom. Try out the laundry hamper sorter in which you can sort all your clothes before it's time to clean.

There is also the modernized version of a laundry basket where the hamper portion is actually hidden inside an ottoman. Simply slide the baskets in or out to keep that unsightly sorted mess out of the corners of your bedroom. Keep this great invention at the foot of your bed for taking off your shoes at night, or laying out your clothes for the next day.

There is a lot to say about laundry hampers nowadays and they are most certainly a step-up from the laundry baskets of yesterday. Whether you choose wicker, plastic, large, small, round, rectangular, lid or no lid, there is no shortage or limitation to what you can do with them. Keep them in the bedroom, the bathroom, or your childs room, there is always a place for the right hamper.