Onions are a versatile vegetable used in many dishes across cuisines worldwide. They add great flavor to soups, salads, sandwiches and more. Onions come in different varieties – yellow, white, red, green, etc. When shopping for onions, most people buy them in bulk to save money and time. Storing onions properly is important to keep them fresh for longer. The most common way to store bulk onions is in a basket. But what kind of basket is best for storing onions? There are a few factors to consider when choosing an onion storage basket.
What to Look for in an Onion Basket
Good Ventilation
Onions need air flow to prevent mold growth and premature sprouting. The basket must allow adequate air circulation while containing the onions. Baskets woven from natural fibers like bamboo, rattan, seagrass, etc. have small gaps between the weave which facilitates air flow. Plastic and metal baskets with multiple holes or slits can also provide ventilation. Solid baskets without gaps or holes are not suitable as they trap moisture.
| Basket Material | Ventilation |
|---|---|
| Bamboo | Good – natural fiber weave allows air flow |
| Rattan | Good – natural fiber weave allows air flow |
| Seagrass | Good – natural fiber weave allows air flow |
| Plastic with holes | Adequate if holes are small and numerous |
| Metal mesh | Adequate if mesh holes are small |
| Solid plastic | Poor – no ventilation |
| Solid metal | Poor – no ventilation |
Durability
An onion basket must be durable enough to hold the weight of onions without breaking or deforming. Onions can be quite heavy when bought in bulk quantities of 5-10 pounds. Wicker baskets made from tough natural fibers like rattan, bamboo and seagrass are very durable. Stiff coated wire baskets are also sturdy. Weak baskets may bend or snap if overloaded with onions.
Ease of Access
The basket should allow you to easily remove onions from the top and bottom without disturbing the whole pile. Baskets that are too deep with small openings will make it hard to take out onions as needed. Similarly, baskets that taper down may trap onions at the bottom. Choose wide baskets with large openings for hassle-free access.
Types of Onion Baskets
Wicker Hampers
Handwoven wicker baskets made from bamboo, rattan or similar fibers are a popular choice for onion storage. They allow airflow while containing the onions in a tidy pile. The natural materials have antimicrobial properties that help extend shelf life. Wicker baskets come in different shapes like cylinder, bowl, crate, and others. Cylinder and bowl shapes are best for onion storage.
Vented Plastic Baskets
Heavy duty plastic baskets with ventilation holes or slots work well too. Make sure to get one with ample perforations for air circulation. Plastic baskets are easy to maintain – you can wash and disinfect them periodically. They are resistant to moisture and everyday wear-and-tear.
Wire Mesh Baskets
Wire mesh onion baskets are lightweight and provide good aeration. Stainless steel wire mesh is more durable than plastic mesh. The wire gauge should be thick enough to safely hold heavier loads. Metal baskets with powder coated finishes in black, bronze or metallic colors are attractive.
Wooden Crates
Wooden crates or boxes with slatted sides allow air flow from all directions while neatly confining onions. They have a nice rustic appeal. Avoid crates made from treated wood, as the chemicals can leach. Go for unfinished hardwood like oak or pine. Line the crate with a mesh bag or burlap sack to keep onions contained.
Key Considerations for Onion Basket Selection
Material
– Natural fibers like rattan, bamboo, seagrass – good breathability
– Plastic – easy to clean, choose vented type
– Metal wire – provides ventilation, powder coated or stainless steel finish
– Wood – unfinished hardwood like oak looks nice
Shape
– Cylinder – easy to access onions at top
– Bowl – onions nest neatly inside
– Crate – allows air flow from all sides
– Avoid tapered baskets where onions get trapped
Size
– Depends on quantity of onions – 5-10 pounds or more
– Too small – not enough capacity
– Overlarge – onions may get lost inside
– Medium to large basket ideal for most needs
Portability
– Lightweight baskets easier to move
– Integrated handles on basket helpful for lifting
– Heavy plastic or dense wood harder to carry
Ease of Cleaning
– Wicker, wood – spot clean with damp cloth
– Plastic, metal – can be washed fully
– Removable liner helps collect debris
Tips for Storing Onions in a Basket
Here are some tips to store onions correctly in a basket for maximum freshness:
– Place basket in a cool, dry spot away from sunlight
– Don’t overload basket, leave some headspace
– Periodically remove rotting onions
– Absorb excess moisture with paper towels
– Allow air flow between onions – don’t pack tightly
– Optional – place a piece of cardboard on top to hold onions in place
– Use onions within 2-4 weeks for best quality
– Don’t store cut onions – use halves immediately
– Check onions periodically and remove any sprouting ones
Conclusion
The ideal onion storage basket should be made of natural breathable material like wicker or unfinished wood. It must have sufficient capacity for your typical onion quantity and openings to access the onions easily. Vented plastic or stainless steel wire baskets also work well. Avoid large solid baskets without ventilation. Place the basket with onions in a cool, dry spot provide air circulation. Remove spoiled onions promptly to prevent mold growth. With a suitable basket and proper storage methods, onions can stay fresh for weeks. The right container keeps your onions organized and extends their shelf life.