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How to De-Clutter Your Vanity Once and For All

Six steps to the vanity of your dreams.
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Step 2: Remove Everything
The next part of the beauty decluttering game plan is to remove all your products and lay them all out in front of you, says Rachel Rosenthal, an organizing expert and the owner of Rachel and Company. This allows you to better understand the scope of your collection and gives you a fresh start when putting the "must keep" products back.

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Step 3: Purge the Easy Stuff
It's hard saying goodbye, so ease yourself into it by tossing the things that absolutely have no use to you anymore.

"Do a quick initial sweep of the items and then pull out any trash — think empty containers of floss, used faux lashes, or stray Q-Tips," says Rosenthal. "Also, review products for expiration dates. Even in the bathroom, products do [go bad]. I use this guide here for makeup products but be sure to check the dates on your specific items."

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Step 4: Create Piles & Purge Some More
Next, you'll want to create categories of products and items. Rosenthal notes this will be slightly different for everyone since we all have different items and routines. The key is to create category piles that make sense for you — like hair care, foundations, medicines, tools, palettes, etc.

"Review your categories for duplicates and declutter where possible," advises Rosenthal. "For example, do you really need 12 mascaras? Are you ever going to use that clarifying shampoo that you can't stand the smell of?"

Having "like with like" will allow you to see what you have more easily to be able to part with the items you don't need. Oh, and also take note of the items you may need to restock. Two birds, one stone!

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Step 5: Put the 'Keepables' Back
Let's go back to that vision you created for yourself. Before putting items back, reflect on that vision and purchase any organizational shelves, trays, or accessories you might need.

"Storage should always support how you want to get ready for the day. It should be both fun and functional, per your vision," says Ivey. "Your 'representatives' — meaning products that you actively use and love — should be readily accessible inside a top drawer, bin, shelf, or pouch. Meanwhile, backstock or alternative products can be stored further away until it's time for them to shine."

Try not to stress too much about the storage aspect. Instead, really prioritize the function of your space and it'll fall into place better.

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Step 6: Maintain the Momentum
Now that everything has its place, it'll be much easier to stay organized. (Labels help, too!) To really help keep things organized, commit to a monthly refresh. Organizational work is far less tedious when you do it in small increments versus all at once.

"You don't have to do a full, deep declutter and organization each month, but setting aside a little time to do a quick once-over of the space to put everything away and tidy up will help your bathroom from getting out of control," says Rosenthal.

Image via @rachelorganizes

BY WENDY ROSE GOULD | JAN 21, 2021 | SHARES
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