Shoppers across the UK are rushing to Home Bargains stores to snap up a remarkably affordable laundry hamper that bears a striking resemblance to a designer version costing almost £100 more. The budget retailer's Utility Double Laundry Basket, priced at just £16.99, has sparked excitement for its uncanny similarity to a premium alternative from luxury homeware brand Joseph Joseph.
A Budget-Friendly Alternative with Premium Features
Home Bargains describes its hamper as a solution to keep laundry day "neat, tidy and totally stress-free," designed to make sorting simple and storage stylish. The basket features two 50-litre compartments, allowing users to easily separate lights and darks or towels and clothing before wash day begins. Portable inner bags with handles enable effortless lifting, carrying, and emptying of each load.
The company emphasises its practicality, noting: "The basket is lightweight and foldable, making it perfect for compact spaces or easy storage when not in use. You can choose from three colours to match your home perfectly." Available in beige, charcoal, or light grey, the hamper offers versatility to suit various home décors.
Shoppers Can't Believe the Similarity
On social media, particularly in groups like Sale Seekers on Facebook, customers have been quick to highlight the resemblance. One shopper exclaimed: "Finally got my hands on this. Only £16.99 in Home Bargains [and] it's so similar to a more expensive brand!" Another commented: "Love it. I was looking at [something similar], but it was over £100. No thanks, this one is great!"
A third user remarked: "Can't tell the difference between this and the more expensive one. It's a no-brainer!" Others praised the quality, with one stating: "I have the beige one, it's the best." The enthusiasm underscores a growing trend of consumers seeking high-value alternatives to premium-priced items.
Comparing the Premium and Budget Options
The designer counterpart, a two-compartment laundry basket from Joseph Joseph, retails for £115 on its website and £110 at John Lewis. Both hampers share a cloth exterior and easily removable sections, but Home Bargains' version offers an additional advantage: it provides 100 litres of total capacity across its two compartments, compared to the 90 litres of the Joseph Joseph model. This means shoppers not only save nearly £100 but also gain extra storage space.
Other Retailers Join the Affordable Trend
Primark has also entered the market with a similar style alternative, selling a cream-coloured version for £18 in its homeware section. While online stock may be limited, customers can check local store availability with a typical two-day waiting period for collection, which remains free due to exceeding the £10 minimum spend threshold.
Home Bargains has recently garnered praise for its collection of homeware items that "look designer" at discounted prices. The retailer's offerings have been compared to products from major brands like B&Q, Amazon, Dunelm, and The White Company, highlighting its commitment to providing stylish, affordable solutions for everyday needs.
This trend reflects a broader shift in consumer behaviour, where value and aesthetics converge, allowing budget-conscious shoppers to enjoy premium-looking home essentials without the hefty price tag. As inflation concerns persist, such discoveries are becoming increasingly popular, driving footfall to discount retailers and reshaping shopping habits across the country.
