Let me tell you, this banneton basket has completely transformed my sourdough game. The first time I used it, I was shocked at how beautifully my loaf held its shape - no more sad, flat bread! The natural rattan feels sturdy yet lightweight in my hands, and I love that it's made by a small family business.

I use mine nearly every weekend. Here's my routine: after mixing my dough, I generously flour the basket (sometimes using the included liner, sometimes not) and let it proof overnight. The next morning, that satisfying *plop* when the dough releases onto my baking stone never gets old. The spiral pattern it leaves on the crust makes me feel like a professional baker!

Cleaning is stupid easy - I just give it a good tap to remove excess flour. When dough occasionally sticks, I've learned to let it dry completely before brushing it off (a lesson from early messy attempts). Pro tip: storing it near my oven vent keeps it bone dry between uses.

At 9 inches, it's the Goldilocks size - not too big for my small kitchen, but large enough for a substantial loaf. After six months of weekly use, mine still looks and performs like new. If you're serious about artisan bread but tired of wonky-shaped loaves, this basket is absolutely worth the investment.