Brilliant Ways to Organize Your Nail Polish Collection

Of all the shelf lives of cosmetic products, nail polish sports the longest lifespan. Though experts suggest tossing it two to three years after opening, there's no real reason to throw it out -- it won't grow bacteria like a face wash from junior high might or coagulate like sunscreen from 2005 will. "Nail polish is naturally inhospitable to microorganisms due to the solvents in it," says cosmetic chemist Don Frey. Though it might get goopier over the years, it's not a danger to your health.

Perhaps that's why we've managed to amass so many bottles over the years. Nail polish, more than any lip balm collection or never-ending supply of blush, takes up the most room under our sinks, in our drawers and on top of our vanities. It also is the least organization-friendly cosmetic, with its asymmetrical shape and lack of stackability.

Lacquers that never see the light of day (We know you've got a Caboodle safe-housing Claire's polish from 1999) are taking up valuable space in your home that could be used to store even more makeup or conceal the clutter that's taking over your counter. Here, the most brilliant nail polish storage solutions that will keep your polish organized and in your line of sight.