Sterilite Wastebasket Value Guide

This 1970s Sterilite wastebasket is a quintessential example of American mid-century plastic housewares, featuring a bold lime green hue and a distinctive curved, flared top. Collectors prize these pieces for their vibrant period-correct colors and the durable construction that defined Sterilite's 20th-century output.

What Is Sterilite Wastebasket Worth?

The typical price range for Sterilite Wastebasket is $15 - $25 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition of the plastic, specifically looking for the absence of stress fractures, deep scuffs, or sun-fading.
• Presence of original manufacturing marks which confirm its origin as a genuine United States Sterilite product.
• The vibrancy of the lime green color, as well-preserved 1970s aesthetics command the highest end of the $15-$25 price range.

How to Identify Sterilite Wastebasket?

• Look for the embossed Sterilite logo and 'Made in USA' mark typically found on the underside of the base.
• Verify the specific 1970s lime green pigment, which is consistent throughout the plastic rather than painted on.
• Check for the characteristic flared rim design that curves outward, a signature silhouette for this specific era of production.

History of Sterilite Wastebasket

Sterilite, a prominent American manufacturer of plastic housewares, began in 1901. While their products are ubiquitous today, some of their vintage designs, particularly from the mid-20th century with their distinctive colors and forms, have gained a following among collectors of retro household items. This particular style and color are emblematic of the 1970s aesthetic.