Longaberger Laundry Basket Value Guide

The Longaberger Laundry Basket is a hallmark of American craftsmanship, hand-woven from durable maple wood in Dresden, Ohio, between 1980 and 2000. These functional pieces are highly collectible due to the company's legacy of artisanal quality and their iconic status in late 20th-century home decor.

What Is Longaberger Laundry Basket Worth?

The typical price range for Longaberger Laundry Basket is $50 - $80 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition of the maple wood, specifically looking for any cracks, breaks, or graying from water exposure.
• Presence of original accessories such as the plastic protector, fabric liner, or a wooden lid which can increase the $50-$80 price range.
• The specific year of production, as earlier baskets from the 1980s are often more desirable to serious collectors.
• The integrity of the two handles, as original, undamaged handles are essential for maintaining the basket's functional and resale value.

How to Identify Longaberger Laundry Basket?

• Look for the weaver's initials and the date of manufacture hand-written in blue ink on the bottom of the basket.
• Check for the burned-in Longaberger logo or stamp on the exterior bottom surface to ensure authenticity.
• Verify the construction features two sturdy handles and a tight, uniform weave characteristic of Ohio-sourced maple wood.
• Examine the weave for the signature 'up-and-over' pattern that defines the brand's traditional handcrafted technique.

History of Longaberger Laundry Basket

The Longaberger Company, founded in 1973 by Dave Longaberger, became renowned for its handcrafted maple wood baskets. Based in Dresden, Ohio, the company employed a vast number of weavers and artisans, becoming a significant part of American manufacturing and collecting culture. Their baskets were often associated with home decor and storage solutions, becoming highly sought after by collectors for their quality and craftsmanship. While the company ceased operations in 2018, its legacy continues through its many collectors and enthusiasts.