How to Organize Your Makeup Kits Efficiently

How to Organize Your Makeup Kits Efficiently

How to Organize Your Makeup Accessories Efficiently [2024 Guide]

Ever dug through a pile of makeup just to find that one lipstick? We've all been there. Organizing your makeup accessories isn't just about tidiness; it's about making your beauty routine seamless and enjoyable. Imagine starting each day with a perfectly ordered collection, where every brush and shade is precisely where you expect it to be. A well-organized makeup setup can save you time, reduce stress, and make applying cosmetics a joyful ritual rather than a chaotic scramble. Whether you have a mountain of products or a minimalist kit, this guide will show you how to streamline your collection for maximum efficiency and elegance.

Assess Your Makeup Collection

Before diving into organizing your makeup, it's essential to assess what you already have. This foundational step will help you determine what's worth keeping, what needs to go, and how best to categorize your remaining items.

Categorize by Product Type

Begin by laying out all your makeup products in a space where you can easily see everything. This might be on a large table or even the floor if needed. Group your makeup items into the following categories:

  • Lip Products: Lipsticks, lip glosses, lip liners
  • Eye Products: Mascaras, eyeliners, eyeshadows
  • Face Products: Foundations, blushes, bronzers, highlighters
  • Tools: Brushes, sponges, applicators

Grouping these items helps you understand how much of each product you have and also makes it easier to find items when you need them. Imagine each category as its own little club where everything belongs together.

Black and white high angle of assorted makeup products and tools placed on dressing table near mirror Photo by Tara Winstead

Declutter and Dispose

Once your makeup is sorted into categories, the next step is to declutter. This can be tough, especially if you're a bit of a makeup hoarder, but it's crucial for a streamlined collection. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Check Expiration Dates: Makeup has a shelf life. Expired products not only perform poorly but can also harbor bacteria. Toss out anything that's past its prime.

  2. Assess Usage: Be honest with yourself. If you haven't used a product in the last six months, chances are you won't use it again. Donate unused items if they are still in good condition.

  3. Dispose Responsibly: Throw away used products properly. Some cosmetics companies offer recycling programs for empty packaging.

Pro Tip:

  • Products like mascara typically last up to three months.
  • Liquid foundation is good for about a year.
  • Powder products can last up to two years, but texture and performance may decline over time.

By decluttering, you're not just making space; you're ensuring that what's left is something you'll actually use. It's like editing your life down to the essentials��only the best and most loved items stay.


With your makeup collection assessed and categorized, you're now ready for the next step in achieving an organized and efficient makeup setup.

Choose the Right Storage Solutions

Organizing makeup can feel like an endless task, but the right storage solutions make a world of difference. With the right tools, you can keep everything neat, accessible, and easy to find. Here are three effective ways to store your makeup accessories.

Drawer Organizers

Collection of Cosmetic Products in a Pink Storage Bin Photo by Mich Graphics

Drawer organizers are essential if you want to keep your makeup collection tidy. Imagine opening a drawer and seeing every item perfectly placed in its own little compartment. Here are a few benefits:

  • Easy Access: Each product has its designated spot, making it easier to find what you need.
  • Reduced Clutter: Keeps your makeup from getting jumbled together, so everything stays neat.
  • Protection: Prevents items from rolling around and breaking.

Drawer organizers come in various sizes and configurations. You can choose ones that cater specifically to different types of makeup, such as lipstick holders, palette dividers, and brush slots.

Acrylic Organizers

Acrylic organizers are perfect for those who want to keep their makeup visible and within reach. They are often used on countertops or vanity tables. Here’s why they’re great:

  • Visibility: The clear material allows you to see all your products at a glance.
  • Style: They add a chic, modern look to your space.
  • Versatility: They come in various shapes and sizes, so you can store anything from brushes to foundations.

You can arrange these organizers by product type, like placing all your lipsticks in one section and brushes in another. This way, everything is ready to go when you are.

Magnetic Boards

A magnetic board can be a unique and practical way to store your metal-based makeup products like palettes, tweezers, and some compacts. Here are some advantages:

  • Space-Saving: Keeps items off the counter and neatly displayed on the wall.
  • Customization: You can arrange products however you like, and it's easy to switch things around.
  • Accessibility: Quickly grab what you need without rummaging through drawers.

To create your own magnetic board, simply affix magnets to the back of your metal makeup items. Hang the board in your bathroom or bedroom for a functional and stylish display.


By using drawer organizers, acrylic organizers, and magnetic boards, you can create a storage system that works best for you. These solutions not only keep your makeup collection tidy but also make it much easier to find and use your favorite products.

Efficient Placement Tips

When it comes to organizing your makeup accessories efficiently, it's all about smart placement. How you arrange your products can significantly impact the ease and speed of your beauty routine. Here’s how to keep everything in its perfect spot.

Daily Use vs. Special Occasion

It's crucial to separate your everyday makeup from the products you reserve for special occasions. This helps keep your everyday routine quick and streamlined.

Daily Use Products:

  • These are items you reach for regularly, like your go-to foundation, mascara, and favorite lipstick. Store these products in a spot that's easy to access, such as a top drawer or a countertop organizer.
  • Consider a compact organizer with multiple compartments for your daily essentials. This keeps everything in one place and prevents morning chaos.

Special Occasion Products:

  • These might include bold eyeshadows, dramatic false lashes, and shimmering highlighters that are not part of your daily routine. Keep these in a separate drawer or a storage box.
  • Labeling the storage space can help you remember where everything is, so you're not digging around when you're in a hurry.

By distinguishing between everyday and occasion-specific items, you'll keep your main area clutter-free and your special products easily accessible when needed.

Accessibility and Flow

Creating an accessible and logical flow for your makeup products can transform your beauty routine. Think about the order in which you use your items and place them accordingly.

  1. Starting Point:

    • Begin with the products you apply first, like primers and foundations. Keep these at the front of your storage space or in the top drawer.
  2. Middle Ground:

    • Next, organize products like concealers, powders, and blushes. These should follow your base products, making them easy to grab when you need them.
  3. Final Touches:

    • Place eye makeup, lip products, and setting sprays towards the back or in a secondary drawer. These are the last steps in your routine, so they don't need to be as immediately accessible.

Organizing Tips:

  • Vertical Storage: Use vertical storage solutions for brushes and pencils. This not only saves space but also keeps them clean and easy to find.
  • Compartmentalization: Use drawer dividers or small bins to separate different types of products. Group items by category to maintain order.
  • Label Everything: If you have deep drawers or multiple storage boxes, labeling is your best friend. It speeds up the process of finding what you need.

By following the natural order of your beauty routine and ensuring each product has a designated spot, you'll save time and reduce frustration. It's like turning the pages of a well-organized book—each step flows seamlessly into the next.


A well-thought-out placement strategy is more than just practical—it's a game-changer for your daily routine. With clearly defined areas for daily and special occasion products, coupled with an accessible flow, your makeup setup will become a harmonious part of your day.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Keeping your makeup collection organized isn't a one-time task. It requires regular maintenance and upkeep to ensure everything stays in its place.

Regular Cleaning

Regular cleaning is crucial to maintaining the organization and hygiene of your makeup collection. Imagine picking up a brush covered in dust—yuck! Not only is it unpleasant, but it can also affect the quality of your makeup application and lead to skin issues.

How to Organize Your Makeup Accessories Efficiently [2024 Guide]

Ever dug through a pile of makeup just to find that one lipstick? We've all been there. Organizing your makeup accessories isn't just about tidiness; it's about making your beauty routine seamless and enjoyable. Imagine starting each day with a perfectly ordered collection, where every brush and shade is precisely where you expect it to be. A well-organized makeup setup can save you time, reduce stress, and make applying cosmetics a joyful ritual rather than a chaotic scramble. Whether you have a mountain of products or a minimalist kit, this guide will show you how to streamline your collection for maximum efficiency and elegance.

Assess Your Makeup Collection

Before diving into organizing your makeup, it's essential to assess what you already have. This foundational step will help you determine what's worth keeping, what needs to go, and how best to categorize your remaining items.

Categorize by Product Type

Begin by laying out all your makeup products in a space where you can easily see everything. This might be on a large table or even the floor if needed. Group your makeup items into the following categories:

  • Lip Products: Lipsticks, lip glosses, lip liners
  • Eye Products: Mascaras, eyeliners, eyeshadows
  • Face Products: Foundations, blushes, bronzers, highlighters
  • Tools: Brushes, sponges, applicators

Grouping these items helps you understand how much of each product you have and also makes it easier to find items when you need them. Imagine each category as its own little club where everything belongs together.

Black and white high angle of assorted makeup products and tools placed on dressing table near mirror

Declutter and Dispose

Once your makeup is sorted into categories, the next step is to declutter. This can be tough, especially if you're a bit of a makeup hoarder, but it's crucial for a streamlined collection. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Check Expiration Dates: Makeup has a shelf life. Expired products not only perform poorly but can also harbor bacteria. Toss out anything that's past its prime.

  2. Assess Usage: Be honest with yourself. If you haven't used a product in the last six months, chances are you won't use it again. Donate unused items if they are still in good condition.

  3. Dispose Responsibly: Throw away used products properly. Some cosmetics companies offer recycling programs for empty packaging.

Pro Tip:

  • Products like mascara typically last up to three months.
  • Liquid foundation is good for about a year.
  • Powder products can last up to two years, but texture and performance may decline over time.

By decluttering, you're not just making space; you're ensuring that what's left is something you'll use. It's like editing your life down to the essentials only the best and most loved items stay.


With your makeup collection assessed and categorized, you're now ready for the next step in achieving an organized and efficient makeup setup.

Choose the Right Storage Solutions

Organizing makeup can feel like an endless task, but the right storage solutions make a world of difference. With the right tools, you can keep everything neat, accessible, and easy to find. Here are three effective ways to store your makeup accessories.

Drawer Organizers

Collection of Cosmetic Products in a Pink Storage Bin Drawer organizers are essential if you want to keep your makeup collection tidy. Imagine opening a drawer and seeing every item perfectly placed in its own little compartment. Here are a few benefits:

  • Easy Access: Each product has its designated spot, making it easier to find what you need.
  • Reduced Clutter: Keeps your makeup from getting jumbled together, so everything stays neat.
  • Protection: Prevents items from rolling around and breaking.

Drawer organizers come in various sizes and configurations. You can choose ones that cater specifically to different types of makeup, such as lipstick holders, palette dividers, and brush slots.

Acrylic Organizers

Acrylic organizers are perfect for those who want to keep their makeup visible and within reach. They are often used on countertops or vanity tables. Here’s why they’re great:

  • Visibility: The clear material allows you to see all your products at a glance.
  • Style: They add a chic, modern look to your space.
  • Versatility: They come in various shapes and sizes, so you can store anything from brushes to foundations.

You can arrange these organizers by product type, like placing all your lipsticks in one section and brushes in another. This way, everything is ready to go when you are.

Magnetic Boards

A magnetic board can be a unique and practical way to store your metal-based makeup products like palettes, tweezers, and some compacts. Here are some advantages:

  • Space-Saving: Keeps items off the counter and neatly displayed on the wall.
  • Customization: You can arrange products however you like, and it's easy to switch things around.
  • Accessibility: Quickly grab what you need without rummaging through drawers.

To create your own magnetic board, simply affix magnets to the back of your metal makeup items. Hang the board in your bathroom or bedroom for a functional and stylish display.


By using drawer organizers, acrylic organizers, and magnetic boards, you can create a storage system that works best for you. These solutions not only keep your makeup collection tidy but also make it much easier to find and use your favorite products.

Efficient Placement Tips

When it comes to organizing your makeup accessories efficiently, it's all about smart placement. How you arrange your products can significantly impact the ease and speed of your beauty routine. Here’s how to keep everything in its perfect spot.

Daily Use vs. Special Occasion

It's crucial to separate your everyday makeup from the products you reserve for special occasions. This helps keep your everyday routine quick and streamlined.

Daily Use Products:

  • These are items you reach for regularly, like your go-to foundation, mascara, and favorite lipstick. Store these products in a spot that's easy to access, such as a top drawer or a countertop organizer.
  • Consider a compact organizer with multiple compartments for your daily essentials. This keeps everything in one place and prevents morning chaos.

Special Occasion Products:

  • These might include bold eyeshadows, dramatic false lashes, and shimmering highlighters that are not part of your daily routine. Keep these in a separate drawer or a storage box.
  • Labeling the storage space can help you remember where everything is, so you're not digging around when you're in a hurry.

By distinguishing between everyday and occasion-specific items, you'll keep your main area clutter-free and your special products easily accessible when needed.

Accessibility and Flow

Creating an accessible and logical flow for your makeup products can transform your beauty routine. Think about the order in which you use your items and place them accordingly.

  1. Starting Point:

    • Begin with the products you apply first, like primers and foundations. Keep these at the front of your storage space or in the top drawer.
  2. Middle Ground:

    • Next, organize products like concealers, powders, and blushes. These should follow your base products, making them easy to grab when you need them.
  3. Final Touches:

    • Place eye makeup, lip products, and setting sprays towards the back or in a secondary drawer. These are the last steps in your routine, so they don't need to be as immediately accessible.

Organizing Tips:

  • Vertical Storage: Use vertical storage solutions for brushes and pencils. This not only saves space but also keeps them clean and easy to find.
  • Compartmentalization: Use drawer dividers or small bins to separate different types of products. Group items by category to maintain order.
  • Label Everything: If you have deep drawers or multiple storage boxes, labeling is your best friend. It speeds up the process of finding what you need.

By following the natural order of your beauty routine and ensuring each product has a designated spot, you'll save time and reduce frustration. It's like turning the pages of a well-organized book—each step flows seamlessly into the next.


A well-thought-out placement strategy is more than just practical—it's a game-changer for your daily routine. With clearly defined areas for daily and special occasion products, coupled with an accessible flow, your makeup setup will become a harmonious part of your day.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Keeping your makeup collection organized isn't a one-time task. It requires regular maintenance and upkeep to ensure everything stays in its place.

Regular Cleaning

Regular cleaning is crucial to maintaining the organization and hygiene of your makeup collection. Imagine picking up a brush covered in dust—yuck! Not only is it unpleasant, but it can also affect the quality of your makeup application and lead to skin issues.

Here’s why keeping your storage areas and products clean is essential:

  • Prevents Bacteria Build-up: Makeup products, especially liquid ones, can harbor bacteria, which can cause skin breakouts and infections. Cleaning your products and storage areas regularly helps prevent this.
  • Preserves Product Quality: Dust and residue buildup can degrade your products over time. Clean environments help maintain the integrity and performance of your makeup.
  • Enhances Longevity: A clean storage setup means your products are less likely to be contaminated or degraded by external factors.

Cleaning Tips:

  1. Makeup Brushes and Tools: Wash your makeup brushes and sponges at least once a week using a mild soap or brush cleaner. Lay them flat to dry.
  2. Storage Containers: Wipe down acrylic organizers and drawers monthly with a damp cloth to remove dust and residues.
  3. Products: Occasionally wipe the exterior of your makeup products with a disinfectant wipe to keep them clean.

Regular cleaning is like giving your makeup collection a fresh reset, ensuring every item is in top-notch condition.

Routine Decluttering

Just like your wardrobe needs a seasonal purge, your makeup collection benefits from routine decluttering. It's easy to accumulate more products than you need—new trends, irresistible sales, and gifts can all add up. But keeping everything can make your space feel chaotic.

Here’s how setting a schedule for periodic decluttering can help:

  • Reduces Overwhelm: An overstuffed makeup drawer can be stressful to navigate. Regular decluttering keeps your collection manageable and easy to use.
  • Maximizes Space: By getting rid of what you don’t need, you free up space for the products you love and use. This makes your storage solutions more effective.
  • Keeps It Fresh: Regularly reviewing your collection helps you rediscover forgotten favorites and ensures that only current, high-quality products are on hand.

Decluttering Tips:

  1. Monthly Check: At the end of each month, spend 10-15 minutes reviewing your collection. Remove products that are expired, damaged, or no longer used.
  2. Quarterly Deep Clean: Take a deeper dive every three months. Evaluate each product based on its usage and condition. Donate or discard items that don’t make the cut.
  3. One In, One Out Rule: Adopt the one in, one out rule—every time you buy a new product, remove an old one. This helps maintain balance and prevents clutter.

Decluttering regularly keeps your makeup collection fresh and functional. It’s like spring cleaning for your beauty stash, ensuring you always have the best products at your fingertips.


By incorporating regular cleaning and routine decluttering into your maintenance routine, your makeup collection will not only stay organized but also remain a joy to use. Maintaining this level of upkeep ensures your beauty routine is always enjoyable and efficient.

Here’s why keeping your storage areas and products clean is essential:

  • Prevents Bacteria Build-up: Makeup products, especially liquid ones, can harbor bacteria, which can cause skin breakouts and infections. Cleaning your products and storage areas regularly helps prevent this.
  • Preserves Product Quality: Dust and residue buildup can degrade your products over time. Clean environments help maintain the integrity and performance of your makeup.
  • Enhances Longevity: A clean storage setup means your products are less likely to be contaminated or degraded by external factors.

Cleaning Tips:

  1. Makeup Brushes and Tools: Wash your makeup brushes and sponges at least once a week using a mild soap or brush cleaner. Lay them flat to dry.
  2. Storage Containers: Wipe down acrylic organizers and drawers monthly with a damp cloth to remove dust and residues.
  3. Products: Occasionally wipe the exterior of your makeup products with a disinfectant wipe to keep them clean.

Regular cleaning is like giving your makeup collection a fresh reset, ensuring every item is in top-notch condition.

Routine Decluttering

Just like your wardrobe needs a seasonal purge, your makeup collection benefits from routine decluttering. It's easy to accumulate more products than you need—new trends, irresistible sales, and gifts can all add up. But keeping everything can make your space feel chaotic.

Here’s how setting a schedule for periodic decluttering can help:

  • Reduces Overwhelm: An overstuffed makeup drawer can be stressful to navigate. Regular decluttering keeps your collection manageable and easy to use.
  • Maximizes Space: By getting rid of what you don’t need, you free up space for the products you love and use. This makes your storage solutions more effective.
  • Keeps It Fresh: Regularly reviewing your collection helps you rediscover forgotten favorites and ensures that only current, high-quality products are on hand.

Decluttering Tips:

  1. Monthly Check: At the end of each month, spend 10-15 minutes reviewing your collection. Remove products that are expired, damaged, or no longer used.
  2. Quarterly Deep Clean: Take a deeper dive every three months. Evaluate each product based on its usage and condition. Donate or discard items that don’t make the cut.
  3. One In, One Out Rule: Adopt the one in, one out rule—every time you buy a new product, remove an old one. This helps maintain balance and prevents clutter.

Decluttering regularly keeps your makeup collection fresh and functional. It’s like spring cleaning for your beauty stash, ensuring you always have the best products at your fingertips.


By incorporating regular cleaning and routine decluttering into your maintenance routine, your makeup collection will not only stay organized but also remain a joy to use. Maintaining this level of upkeep ensures your beauty routine is always enjoyable and efficient.