How to Store Makeup Brushes: Four Must-Try Techniques for Travel and Home
I have to admit that I’m not much of a makeup aficionado. In fact, my “makeup routine” consists usually of just four products. I use the Jones Road Miracle Balm as foundation and apply blush, usually from Charlotte Tilbury or Kosas, to my cheeks. I’m also a fierce supporter of the Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extension mascara. And I love a good lip color—usually in mauve or brown. That said, it dawned on me that I use a makeup brush to put on my blush. And I have no idea how to store makeup brushes.
To be sure, using the right makeup brushes can make all the difference in achieving a flawless, long-lasting look. My sister and best friends have tons of brushes and swear by them. They say they help ease application, build coverage, and seamlessly blend colors—whether that’s on your eyelids, cheeks, or forehead. To get the most out of them, though, you need to store your makeup brushes properly. This way, your brushes (and your skin!) are protected from dust, dirt, and bacteria.
To that end, we’ll be sharing four effective ways to store your makeup brushes and keep them clean and ready for use. (Oh—and in case you’re wondering about other must-have beauty tools, we got you covered).
How to Store Makeup Brushes
There are several ways to store makeup brushes, but it really depends on what you’re doing. For instance, if you’re on the go, you’ll want to know how to store makeup brushes for travel. It would also be helpful to know the proper brush storage strategies and techniques when they’ll be sitting in a drawer. So, without further ado, let’s get into four different ways you can make sure your makeup brushes are safe and sound.
How to Store Makeup Brushes for Travel
From what my sister and friends tell me, traveling with makeup brushes is tricky. How do you prevent them from being squished, bent, or broken? The answer is much simpler than you might imagine. You’ll just need a brush roll—bonus points if it’s sturdy and compact.
Our favorite pick is the Kanviensl Makeup Brush Holder because it’s small, has a hard shell, and is perfect for people who travel a lot. If you’d like something a bit more flexible and easy to pack, you can also shop for a soft case with compartments. This protects each individual brush and keeps the bristles safe.
How to Store Makeup Brushes in a Drawer
Instead of using brush rolls, my best friend keeps her makeup brushes in her vanity drawer. And while this does protect them from dust, you’ll want to make sure they’re organized and well-ventilated. This will help you avoid risks like mothballs or general mustiness.
A drawer organizer with dedicated compartments for brushes, like this Chancetsui one on Amazon, is a great storage option. It provides easy access to your makeup brushes while maintaining them upright to keep their shape intact. We also love that these drawer inserts keep your brushes clean since they’re separated from other products.
How to Store Makeup Brushes in a Makeup Bag
Storing brushes in a makeup bag is convenient and probably where your makeup brushes are right now. However, when you think about it, this may lead to color transference from other products, and the brushes can quickly get dirty. So can you opt to throw your makeup brushes in your makeup bag? Yes, but you’ll need a separate brush holder. Ideally, it’ll have a zippered compartment to create separation and prevent cross-contamination. We’re partial to the Agiket Silicone Makeup Brush Holder since you can store and clean your brushes in it. (Fascinating, right?)
How to Store Makeup Brushes in the Bathroom
Storing makeup brushes in the bathroom? I’m sorry, but it’s not my favorite. After all, bathrooms tend to be humid environments. This, in turn, may shorten the lifespan of your brushes. If you don’t have any choice but to put your makeup brushes in the bathroom, you’ll need to combat this inherent moisture.
To do this, store your makeup brushes in an upright container that has a cover. You can also use a breathable brush roll that you can hang up, away from the sink. This’ll help protect your brushes from absorbing excess moisture and keep them in tip-top condition.
