How to Organize Your Beauty Products for the Most Efficient Morning Routine Ever
First things first: The most important part of breaking out of your beauty routine rut is making an honest (and we mean do mean honest) assessment of what's working and what's not. Create two piles—one for the everyday go-tos and another for things that are essential, but not as frequently used (such as seasonal shades or backups you bought in bulk). The most important step is tossing stuff you no longer use and products that have expired (FYI, changes in color or odor are telltale signs).
Here's what to do next…
Photo: Getty Images1/9Why not hit that snooze button one more time?
Photo: Courtesy of The Container Store2/9Put everyday staples where you can see 'em.
When it comes to organizing those go-tos, your best bet is clear—literally. Go for a see-through stackable container with built-in dividers for separating. Stock up on other translucent containers for bigger tackles, like mason jars for brushes or flower vases for nail polish.
The Container Store 3-Drawer Chest & Stacking Organizer Set, $25. containerstore.com.
Photo: Courtesy of Real Simple3/9Stash (and label) all your other stuff.
Once you’ve taken care of a portion of the clutter (didn’t that feel good?), you’ll want to further organize the remaining products. Go with what makes the most sense to you—be it by type, color, or brand. Depending on the size of your haul, stackable (or under-bed storage) bins are a great bet. We especially love this over-the-door organizer for easy, yet still discreet, reach.
Real Simple Multi-Pocket Organizer, $14. bedbathandbeyond.com.
Photo: Courtesy of Target4/9Get a handle on morning shakeups.
If you share your beautifying space with a sibling or—eek!—the whole family, save time (and frustration) that comes with having to uproot mid-prettifying by stashing your products and tools in a clear shower caddy with handles for easy relocating.
Target Cargo Shower Caddy, $11. target.com.
Photo: Courtesy of Rationell5/9Make the most of your space.
Especially great for anyone who’s ever had products disappear on them (it happens!), a no-brainer option is turning your top dresser drawer into your own beauty counter. Just scoop up a few flatware trays to organize, and keep your most frequently-used items up front for easy access.
Rationell Flatware Tray Basic Unit, $13. ikea.com.
Photo: Courtesy of Sonia Kashuk6/9Pack as you primp.
Keep a makeup bag handy for stashing backups of your go-to products. That way you won’t have to worry about forgetting your can’t-live-without-it mascara, or realize—right after leaving the house—that you’re without your day-saving concealer. This range from Sonia Kashuk also offers a weekender with clear compartments for slumber parties and getaways.
Sonia Kashuk Wallpaper Print Cosmetic Bag Collection, $7-30. target.com.
Photo: Courtesy of Cetaphil7/9Enlist a few miracle workers.
For days when time really isn’t on your side, keep some instant-pick-me-up products on hand. Face wipes, dry shampoo, and quick-drying nail topcoat can go a long way when you had to be out the door for an early exam five minutes ago.
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleansing Cloths, $8. cetaphil.com.
Photo: Courtesy of Hot Tools8/9Don't play the waiting game.
With this smart (and super safe) heat resistant mat, you won’t have to keep an eye on hair tools as they heat up (and later cool down). This caddy from Hot Tools has dividers for storing several tools at once, and will keep cords in check so you don’t have to worry about tripping—a very real fear for those of you with loads of curling irons.
Hot Tools Appliance Caddy, $27. folica.com.
Photo: Courtesy of Pier 1 Imports9/9Prep in the P.M. so you can rush in the A.M.
The last thing you want to discover when getting ready in the morning is that your favorite pencils need sharpening or your face brush recharging. Keep a canister nearby for items you come across that need a little TLC, then tend to them before you go to bed so you have things covered come morning.
Bonus tip: Choose a set that includes chalkboard labels like this one from Pier 1 Imports for keeping a running shopping list.
Pier 1 Imports Chalkboard Jars, $10-$14. pier1.com.
