If you’re anything like me, makeup can take over every flat surface in your bedroom or bathroom if you let it. Brushes scattered across the counter, lipsticks rolling around in drawers, palettes stacked in precarious towers—it’s chaos.
Honestly, I’ve spent more than one morning rummaging through a jumble of products, convinced that my favorite lipstick had vanished forever.
That’s why investing a little thought into makeup storage ideas isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about saving time, keeping things clean, and even making your morning routine a little more enjoyable.
Over the years, I’ve tried a ton of setups, some great, some…well, let’s say “learning experiences.”
Today, I want to share 21 makeup storage ideas that have actually worked in real homes—small apartments, shared bathrooms, or even spacious master suites.
1. Clear Acrylic Organizers
Acrylic organizers are a classic for a reason. The transparency makes it super easy to spot exactly what you need without digging through drawers. I personally like the kind with small compartments for lipsticks and taller slots for brushes. Pro tip: invest in a set with removable sections—you can customize it as your collection grows.
2. Tiered Drawer Inserts
If you’re limited on counter space, drawer organizers can be a lifesaver. I lined mine in a shallow dresser drawer, and suddenly everything had its “home.” The tiered inserts are especially nice because you can see palettes at a glance instead of stacking them flat and forgetting what’s underneath.
3. Rotating Makeup Carousels
These feel a little like a throwback to old-school vanity setups, but they work beautifully. I picked a small one for my bathroom counter, and it surprisingly holds more than it looks like. The spinning motion makes it fun and oddly satisfying to pick products, plus everything is easy to reach.
4. Hanging Wall Racks
What most people forget is that walls are storage, too. I installed a simple hanging rack next to my mirror, and suddenly all my daily-use items were off the counter. It’s ideal if you’re short on space, and I like that it adds a little decorative element as well.
5. Vintage Jewelry Boxes
Here’s a little trick: repurpose a vintage jewelry box for makeup. The small compartments are perfect for creams, lipsticks, or compact powders. I love the charm it adds to the room, and honestly, it makes getting ready feel a bit more special.
6. Magnetic Boards for Metal Products
If your makeup includes metal compacts or palettes, a magnetic board can be a game-changer. I stuck one behind my vanity mirror, and suddenly everything that could stick to it was in plain view. It’s a neat way to save space and display your collection without clutter.
7. Mason Jar Brush Holders
Simple, inexpensive, and versatile—mason jars are my go-to for brushes. I like to wrap them with ribbon or twine for a more polished look. One tip: keep brushes upright and separate by size to avoid bent bristles and messy mornings.
8. Acrylic Lipstick Racks
Lipstick racks might seem small, but they’re surprisingly effective if you have a big collection. I used to mix mine in a drawer, and I never knew what I had. The clear acrylic ones let you see shades at a glance, which makes picking the right color faster than ever.
9. Over-the-Door Organizers
For shared bathrooms or tight spaces, over-the-door organizers are a lifesaver. I hung one on the bathroom door, and suddenly my makeup didn’t compete with towels and skincare. Look for ones with clear pockets—you’ll thank yourself later.
10. Small Rolling Carts
Rolling carts are probably my favorite flexible storage solution. I have a three-tier cart tucked next to my vanity. Some days it’s all about everyday products; other days I roll it into another room when I’m doing a bigger project. The mobility is surprisingly freeing.
11. Tiered Acrylic Stands for Palettes
Eye shadow and face palettes can be awkward to store flat. I bought a tiered acrylic stand, and now they’re displayed like a little art collection. Honestly, it makes the morning routine feel a little more organized and enjoyable.
12. Repurposed Tea Boxes
If you like a more eclectic, homey vibe, small tea boxes or wooden compartments work wonderfully. I used one for mini eyeshadow palettes, and it keeps everything neat while adding some rustic charm. Plus, you can paint or decorate it to match your room’s style.
13. Drawer Dividers with Labels
Labels aren’t strictly necessary, but in my experience, they save a lot of time. I organized my drawers into “lip,” “eye,” “face,” and “tools,” and now mornings feel less chaotic. The dividers keep products upright and accessible, which is half the battle.
14. Lazy Susans for Counters
I didn’t think I’d use a Lazy Susan for makeup, but wow—it’s surprisingly handy. I keep creams and daily-use bottles on it. The rotation helps me reach everything in a cramped counter space, and I don’t knock over anything while searching for that one elusive highlighter.
15. Decorative Boxes
Sometimes, a simple decorative box is all you need. I have a wooden box with a velvet lining that holds my favorite evening products. It keeps things contained while also doubling as décor—people often ask where I got it.
16. Small Baskets for Daily Essentials
Baskets are underrated. I keep one on my vanity for things I use daily: mascara, brow gel, and a few lipsticks. The good thing is they’re easy to grab and can fit on almost any surface. Plus, it adds texture and warmth to the space.
17. Hanging Pouches for Travel Items
If you travel often, I highly recommend a hanging pouch system. I clip mine inside a closet, and it keeps sample sizes, travel brushes, and skincare neat. It also prevents the “dump everything into a bag at the last minute” panic, which we’ve all experienced.
18. Stackable Clear Drawers
I have a few stackable clear drawers for miscellaneous items. They’re perfect for organizing small products, nail polish, or even perfumes. The transparency makes it easy to find things quickly, and stacking maximizes vertical space without looking messy.
19. Acrylic Compartmentalized Trays
For flat surfaces, acrylic trays with multiple compartments are excellent. I have one near my bathroom sink, and it’s where I keep my daily creams, serums, and small palettes. It’s simple, practical, and visually clean.
20. Floating Shelves
Floating shelves above a vanity can add storage and style at the same time. I like to use them for displaying frequently used products or special items I want to see every day. It keeps counters clear and adds a cozy, layered feel to the room.
21. Repurposed Spice Racks
Finally, a little quirky idea: spice racks aren’t just for the kitchen. I found a small one that fits on my counter, perfect for holding lipsticks, eyeliners, or mascaras upright. It’s compact, functional, and adds an unexpected, fun twist to makeup organization.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, makeup storage isn’t about perfection—it’s about making your daily routine easier and your space feel calm. I’ve tried setups that looked great on Pinterest but drove me nuts in real life, and I’ve found a few that genuinely make mornings more peaceful. The key is mixing practicality with a touch of personality—don’t be afraid to repurpose items or try something unconventional. When your makeup is organized in a way that suits your habits, it doesn’t just look nice—it feels like a little daily gift to yourself. And honestly, who doesn’t need that?
About James
James founded HomeUpgradeLab & was sharing his experiences to fix issues related to bathroom and toilet fixtures & fittings. Read to know more about James Hill & how he started this blog.