The chaos of a toddler’s playroom is often mirrored in our own makeup collections – a colorful mess of lipsticks, palettes, and brushes scattered across the surface. If your beauty routine resembles a playful free-for-all, you’re not alone. As a mom myself, I’ve experienced the frustration firsthand: my little one has knocked over countless eyeshadow palettes, leaving me to clean up the sparkly aftermath.
Determined to put an end to the mess, I set out to create a system for organizing makeup that’s both functional and easy to maintain. And now, I’m excited to share this guide with you, packed with practical tips and storage ideas to help you tame the chaos and find your perfect shade of order.
Getting Started: Sort, Save and Toss!
When it comes to organizing your makeup collection, the first step is to sort through everything and separate items into keep and toss piles. Yes, this may mean saying goodbye to some old favorites, but it’s a necessary step to ensure you’re only using fresh, effective products. Makeup does expire, after all! As you go through your stash, be honest with yourself about which products are still good as new and which have seen better days.
Keep in mind that even if you don’t use something daily, it can still hold sentimental value or serve a purpose for special occasions. On the other hand, expired or old makeup is best left in the past. Not only does it increase the risk of skin irritation, but it’s also unlikely to perform as well as newer products. So, be ruthless – if you haven’t used something in ages and it’s probably expired by now, it’s time to let it go.
You deserve better than subpar makeup, and your skin will thank you for being discerning.
When is Makeup Expired, Anyway?
When it comes to old makeup, the question is not whether you should toss it, but rather why you haven’t already. The reality is that expired or outdated cosmetics can pose a serious risk to your skin health, potentially leading to infections and even blood poisoning. This is because bacteria can thrive in old makeup, making it a breeding ground for harmful microorganisms.
So, the next time you’re reaching for that same old foundation or eyeshadow from years ago, remember: it’s not just a matter of aesthetics – it’s a matter of safety. And who knows, maybe getting rid of your old stash will give you an excuse to treat yourself to some fresh new products? If you’re unsure about the manufacturing date of your makeup, consider consulting the cosmetic calculator or checking out our comprehensive guide to makeup expiration dates for more guidance.
Makeup Expiration Dates
When it comes to makeup expiration dates, there are some general guidelines to keep in mind. For instance, products that come into close proximity with the eyes – such as eyeliner and mascara – typically have a shorter shelf life of around 3 months for liquid or stick forms.
On the other hand, products like eyeshadow, foundation, concealer, lipstick, lip gloss, powdered blush or highlighter, and cream blush or highlighter generally last longer, with most lasting up to 1-2 years before they should be replaced. As a rule of thumb, it’s best to err on the side of caution when it comes to your eye area and aim to replace products that come into contact with your eyes every few months.
This is especially important for liquid or stick eyeliner and mascara, as improper use can lead to adverse effects.
Organizing Your Makeup (Now that You Know What You’re Keeping!)
Now that we’ve cleared the way for a more streamlined approach to organizing your makeup, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty details. To begin with, think about where you’ll be storing your products. You have several options at your disposal: opting for countertop or vanity storage solutions, utilizing drawers with containers, or perhaps combining the two approaches that work best for you.
The key is to consider how you personally use your collection and tailor your organization strategy accordingly.
How I Organize My Makeup Collection (In Case You Want to Adopt My Method!)
To keep my makeup collection organized and easily accessible, I’ve developed a setup that combines the use of acrylic drawers, lipstick organizers, and other creative storage solutions. The heart of my system is a mix of acrylic drawer organizers that house my eyeshadow palettes and blushes. On top of these drawers, I have custom-made lipstick organizers that also hold wider essentials like foundation, eye shadow sticks, and mascara.
For larger items like perfumes and skincare products, I’ve found that a large cosmetic organizer is perfect for keeping everything tidy and within reach. This versatile storage solution can be used to store not only makeup but also other beauty essentials. One of the most clever aspects of my setup is how I store my makeup brushes. After scouring stores, I stumbled upon a Lazy Susan pencil organizer that has become the perfect home for these delicate tools.
The spinning design makes it easy to access and clean each brush, and its compact size keeps the brushes from getting lost or damaged. While there’s certainly more to say about organizing makeup brushes, my goal here is simply to share an idea that works well in my own experience.
Countertop Makeup Storage Ideas
When it comes to bathroom storage for makeup, I’m a big fan of acrylic drawers. While they may be an investment, the transparency and ease of access make them well worth the cost. In fact, good quality acrylic organizers can last you many years, making them a worthwhile long-term solution. One of the most popular makeup storage ideas out there, it’s easy to see why.
If you’re looking for something with a touch of elegance, a glass makeup organizer would be a stunning addition to any vanity or bathroom counter. And if you want both style and practicality, the mDesign drawers are a great option. Not only do they provide ample storage space, but you can also use the top surface to stash a few extra items. Of course, there are many other countertop makeup storage ideas that could work just as well inside a linen cabinet.
For example, some makeup drawers have deeper storage compartments and adorable designs. Whatever your style or needs may be, there’s sure to be a solution out there that fits the bill.
How to Organize Makeup with Storage Caddies and Rotating Organizers
Conveniently store tall items with storage caddies that offer a unique twist – rotation! These types of caddies provide an excellent way to display all your beauty essentials at a glance while keeping your countertops clear and clutter-free. One such example is the Lazy Susan, which doubles as a makeup storage solution due to its rotating feature, allowing it to accommodate taller items.
Storage caddies are particularly well-suited for storing brushes, mascara tubes, lip glosses, and other products that can be safely stored upright or at an angle.
Storage for Makeup: The Best Lipstick Organizers
If you’ve accumulated a substantial collection of lipsticks, a dedicated organizer is likely just what you need to keep them organized and within reach.
This clever lipstick tower stands out with its ability to hold an impressive 64 shades. But what makes it truly versatile is that it’s not just limited to storing lipsticks alone. Its compact size makes it an ideal spot for your daily essentials, such as a trusted mascara or eyeliner.
In fact, lipstick organizers like this one are perfect for stashing away smaller items you use frequently, keeping them tidy and easy to find.
In short, lipstick organizers are more than just a clever way to keep your lip colors in order – they’re a convenient spot for storing all sorts of small treasures that bring joy to your daily routine.
Save Space with Stackable Makeup Organization Drawers
When it comes to storing makeup while keeping an eye on space efficiency, consider stackable cases or clear makeup drawers that allow for effortless visibility. These versatile storage solutions enable you to tailor your setup according to your specific needs. For instance, stackable makeup storage can be placed on your countertop or inside deep drawers and cabinets, providing ample room for your favorite products.
I’ve even repurposed some of these containers in my linen closet and under the sink to store a variety of essentials, including razors, cotton balls, and Q-tips.
Be Travel-Ready with Cosmetic Cases
When it comes to traveling with your makeup or organizing your collection for everyday use, cosmetic cases can be a lifesaver. One of my go-to options is a train case with removable dividers, which offers the perfect balance of customization and storage space. Not only can you keep your makeup brushes neatly organized within, but this case also makes it easy to pre-pack a travel-ready kit for stress-free vacation mornings.
Of course, there are plenty of other options out there – from classic caboodles to larger train cases that can store even the most extensive collections. If you’re looking for a way to keep your makeup hidden from view or simply want to declutter your space, these cases can be a great solution.
Hide the Clutter with Drawer Organizers for Makeup
Transforming a cluttered makeup storage space into a tidy haven is just a few simple steps away. One effective approach is to incorporate drawer organizers that can be customized to suit your needs. You don’t necessarily need specialized makeup organizers – everyday utensil organizers, such as flatware servers, can also serve this purpose. These versatile tools enable you to categorize and store your makeup products by size or type, allowing for easy access and a clutter-free environment.
In my own bathroom, I’ve successfully employed this strategy in the first drawer, utilizing cubes to stash essential items like toothpaste, contact lens cases, and skincare products within easy reach.
How to Organize Makeup Palettes
Are you overwhelmed by the number of makeup palettes cluttering your space? Consider investing in a makeup palette organizer! These clever solutions allow you to keep multiple palettes corralled and within easy reach. Plus, they can be stacked on trays or drawers, making them a great space-saving option.
Not only do these organizers provide a sense of order, but they also cater to specific needs. For instance, compact organizers are perfect for holding smaller collections like blushes.
If you prefer to keep your palettes visible and easily accessible, rather than stashed away in a drawer, then a makeup palette organizer is the way to go.
Rolling Carts for Makeup Organization
While my own makeup collection may not warrant an extravagant storage solution, I’m aware that many beauty enthusiasts and YouTubers have the space and need for something special. For those who want to take their makeup organization to the next level, consider investing in a rolling cart with ample storage. A versatile option is one with multiple drawers, such as this white one featuring 7 compartments that will seamlessly blend into your decor.
This setup is perfect for housing a large collection of products. Alternatively, for a more budget-friendly approach, a craft cart can be repurposed to store not only makeup but also hair tools and accessories. A great value option is this under-$30 cart available in a range of colors to match your home decor.
When using a rolling cart as primary makeup storage, keep the following organizational tips in mind: first, purchase makeup baskets to maintain order within the cart; secondly, position your most frequently used products near the top for easy access; and finally, consider creative solutions like a brush holder for pencils and pens. By doing so, you’ll be able to find what you need quickly and efficiently.
Why Your Current Makeup Organization Method Isn’t Working
Perhaps, you’ve tried various approaches to keep your makeup organized, only to find yourself feeling frustrated. The truth is that finding an organizational system that suits your needs can be a trial-and-error process. What works for one person may not work for another, and it’s entirely possible that your approach may need to evolve over time.
For instance, I used to do my makeup on the floor, but now I prefer using my vanity – this change required me to reassess how I store my daily essentials and optimize my workspace.
There are several reasons why your efforts might not have yielded the desired results in the past. It’s possible that your makeup isn’t conveniently located near where you use it (perhaps it’s stored in another room or a drawer), making it difficult to access what you need.
Another issue could be that certain products are hidden from view, making them hard to find. Alternatively, you might have found yourself carrying half of your cosmetics around with you in your purse – and let’s be honest, buying duplicates for on-the-go use isn’t the most efficient solution.
It’s also important to remember that it’s okay if your initial organizational attempt doesn’t quite hit the mark. The key takeaway is that you can always adjust and refine your approach as needed.
Don’t worry too much about not having everything just right from the start – with a little flexibility, you’ll be able to find a system that works for you.
How to Store Makeup: Proper Care Tips
When it comes to storing makeup, having the right techniques is just as important as choosing the right storage containers. To ensure your cosmetics remain in top condition, keep the following tips in mind. Firstly, protect your nail polish from sunlight by keeping it away from direct rays. This will prevent the color from fading or changing unexpectedly. Lipstick, on the other hand, requires a cool and stable environment to maintain its shape and texture.
Some users swear by storing their lipsticks in a beauty fridge to prevent melting. It’s also crucial to keep your makeup storage area dry and moisture-free. Excessive humidity can lead to bacterial growth, which can be detrimental to the longevity of your products. By being mindful of these factors, you’ll be able to maintain a clean and organized makeup collection that looks as good as it feels.