Join Organized Insider Program! Save $10
Join Our Organized Insider Program! Save $10


Whether your cosmetics collection is large or small, keeping it organized and accessible can be a challenge. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of options for storing makeup either on your countertop or in a drawer. Even better? You can create a custom makeup storage solution based on your collection.

Streamline your beauty routine by getting your collection of makeup in order with these easy steps. There's nothing like a clutter-free counter or makeup drawer to get your day off to a great start.

First go through all your makeup, lipstick and brushes. Discard any that are broken or past their prime. Look for the time limit indicated on the package. It will either say 3M, 6M or 12M. Believe it or not, you should discard all makeup after a year, especially mascara and liquid eye liner as these can harbor harmful bacteria.

Next, sort your cosmetics by category. For many people, it makes sense to separate everyday makeup from that used to create special occasion or evening looks. This will help you determine whether you want to keep your makeup in a countertop organizer or store it in a drawer (or two).

For Countertop Storage:
If you're storing your makeup on the countertop, you'll want to make use of your vertical space by using organizers that stack. This allows you to create a custom solution. You'll find options in a variety of materials including bamboo, plastic and acrylic. To keep your everything accessible, build your solution by stacking modular organizers with drawers on the bottom. If you have a lot of eyeshadow palettes or face palettes, be sure to measure them to make sure they'll fit in your drawers. Then, utilize trays featuring divided compartments to keep your smaller eyeshadow quads, powders, blushes and bronzers organized. If you use a lot of makeup brushes, you may want to store them in separate pencil cups or other similar containers.

For Drawer Storage:
If you decide to store your makeup in your drawers, you'll want to use modular makeup drawer organizers to keep everything separated. If your drawer is deep enough, consider organizers that stack and slide. You may even want to use a deep tray with handles that can be lifted out to the countertop and then easily returned to the drawer when you're finished with it.

Finally, turn your area into a true makeup station by adding a lighted makeup mirror. You'll be amazed at what a difference it makes to put on makeup under good lighting. Not to mention how handy it is to have a mirror that magnifies and can be adjusted to the perfect angle.