If you’re like most women, you probably have a lot of purses. But do you know how to organize them? If not, then you’re in luck! In this article, we’ll share some tips on how to organize your purses without breaking the bank. Plus, we’ll provide some helpful tips on how to keep your purses looking their best.
First, you’ll need to decide how you want to organize your purses. There are several different ways to do this, so choose the one that works best for you. You can organize your purses by color, by season, or by type. Once you’ve decided how you want to organize them, you’ll need to gather your supplies.
Here are some of the supplies you’ll need:
– Clear storage containers
– Drawer organizers
– Shelf organizers
– Hanging organizers
– Closet rods
Declutter and Sort
Decluttering your purse involves discarding items you no longer need or use. Begin by emptying the entire contents onto a flat surface. Separate items into three piles: keep, donate, and trash. Consider the following questions when deciding which items to keep:
- Do I use this item regularly?
- Does this item bring me joy?
- Is this item irreplaceable or sentimental?
Any items that do not meet these criteria should be discarded or donated. It’s essential to be ruthless and honest with yourself during this process. Keeping only the essentials will create a more organized and manageable purse.
| Keep | Donate | Trash |
|---|---|---|
| Essential items (wallet, keys, phone) | Rarely used items (extra change, expired coupons) | Broken items, trash receipts |
| Sentimental items (photos, mementos) | Clothes or accessories you no longer wear | Empty packaging, food wrappers |
Once you’ve decluttered your purse, it’s time to sort the remaining items. Group similar items together, such as makeup, toiletries, and pens. This will make it easier to find what you need quickly and keep the purse organized.
Categorize Items
One of the most crucial steps in organizing your purses is categorizing their contents. This will help you locate items quickly and effortlessly. Here are a few categories to consider:
Essentials
These items are the ones you need to have on hand at all times, such as your wallet, keys, phone, and lip balm. Consider keeping them in an easy-to-reach compartment or pocket.
Frequently Used Items
These are items you use regularly but not as often as your essentials, such as sunglasses, earbuds, and hand sanitizer. Designate a specific pocket or compartment for these items to ensure they’re easily accessible.
Occasional Items
These items are less frequently used but still important to have on hand, such as a small notebook, pen, or umbrella. You can store these items in a separate zippered pocket or a pouch within your purse.
Valuables
Keep your valuable items, such as your credit cards, passport, and jewelry, in a secure location, preferably in a zippered or buttoned compartment. Consider using a small organizer or pouch to store these items separately for added protection.
Other Items
There may be additional items you want to keep in your purse, such as makeup, tissues, or a small first-aid kit. Determine the best way to organize these items based on their size and frequency of use.
Utilize Organizational Tools
Insert Pouches or Compartments
Insert small pouches or divider compartments into your purse to create designated spaces for specific items. This allows you to keep frequently used items like keys, cards, or lip balm easily accessible. Use pouches with transparent or mesh material so you can see the contents quickly without having to dig around.
Use Keychains and Cardholders
Attach a keychain to your keys to prevent them from getting lost at the bottom of your purse. Consider a retractable keychain for convenience and to keep keys from jingling unnecessarily. Similarly, use a cardholder to organize your credit cards, ID, and other essential documents. This helps prevent them from becoming damaged or scattered.
Create a “Quick Access” Pocket
Designate a specific pocket or area in your purse for items you need quick access to, such as your phone, wallet, or hand sanitizer. Consider adding a hook or elastic band to hold these items securely in place. By keeping essentials within easy reach, you can avoid the frustration of rummaging through your purse while in a hurry.
Choose a Purposeful Purse
Consider the primary purpose you need a purse for. If you’re looking for an everyday bag, opt for a spacious tote or crossbody bag that can accommodate your essentials like a wallet, keys, phone, and makeup. For special occasions, a clutch or evening bag may be more appropriate.
Think about your lifestyle and daily routine. If you travel frequently, a backpack or rolling suitcase may be more practical than a traditional purse. Consider the size and weight of the purse and ensure it fits your needs comfortably.
The material of the purse is also important. Leather purses are durable, but can be expensive. Canvas or nylon purses are lightweight and affordable, but may not withstand heavy wear and tear. Consider the durability, water resistance, and ease of cleaning when choosing a purse material.
Size and Shape Considerations
The size and shape of the purse should align with your intended use. A large tote bag is suitable for carrying multiple items, while a small crossbody bag is more compact and convenient for quick errands.
The shape of the purse can also impact its functionality. Satchels and backpacks offer secure storage with compartments and pockets, while hobo bags and bucket bags provide a relaxed and casual style.
Consider the following table for specific size and shape recommendations:
| Purpose | Recommended Size | Recommended Shape |
|---|---|---|
| Everyday Use | Medium to Large | Tote, Crossbody |
| Special Occasions | Small to Medium | Clutch, Evening Bag |
| Travel | Large to Extra Large | Backpack, Rolling Suitcase |
Create Multiple Sections
Dividing your purse into multiple sections is crucial for organization. Categorize items logically to make finding what you need a breeze.
1. Main Compartment
This is the largest section, perfect for everyday essentials like your phone, wallet, keys, and glasses.
2. Zippered Pockets
Use zippered pockets for valuables like cash, credit cards, and important documents. They provide extra security and keep items secure.
3. Card Slots
Designated card slots help keep your credit cards, ID, and loyalty cards organized and easy to access.
4. Slip Pockets
Slip pockets are ideal for storing receipts, notes, or small items that you need to grab quickly.
5. Accessory Compartments
Depending on your purse style, it may have dedicated compartments for specific items. These can include:
| Compartment | Items |
|---|---|
| Lipstick Holder | Lipsticks, lip balms, and lip glosses |
| Makeup Pocket | Small makeup items, such as compacts, brushes, and mascara |
| Pen Holder | Pens, pencils, or styluses |
| Mirror Pocket | Small mirror for touch-ups |
Utilize Pockets and Compartments
To maintain order within your purse, capitalize on the pockets and compartments provided by most designs. These built-in organizers can effectively segregate your belongings, making it easier to locate specific items.
6. Employ a Purse Organizer
Consider investing in a purse organizer, a specially designed insert that perfectly fits the interior of your purse. These organizers come equipped with multiple pockets and compartments, allowing you to create a customized storage system that caters to your unique needs. The following table provides a comprehensive guide to the advantages and disadvantages of various purse organizer types:
| Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Soft-Sided Organizer | Lightweight, versatile, and customizable | May provide less support than hard-sided options |
| Hard-Sided Organizer | Exceptional durability and structure | Heavier and less adaptable |
| Collapsible Organizer | Folds flat for convenient storage when not in use | May not be as sturdy as other types |
| Built-In Organizer | Custom-designed for specific purse models | Limited versatility if you switch purses frequently |
Experiment with Different Folding Methods
There are countless ways to fold a purse, but some methods are more effective than others. Experiment with different techniques to find the one that works best for you.
Here are a few popular folding methods:
- The “Envelope Fold”: Fold the sides of the purse inwards, like an envelope.
- The “Roll-and-Tuck”: Roll up the purse and tuck the ends inside.
- The “Accordion Fold”: Fold the purse like an accordion, alternating between folding the sides inwards and outwards.
- The “Half-Fold”: Fold the purse in half, bringing the sides together.
- The “Figure-Eight Fold”: Fold the purse in half, then twist the ends around each other to form a figure-eight shape.
- The “Triangle Fold”: Fold the purse in half diagonally, then fold the ends towards the center to form a triangle.
- The “Pyramid Fold”: Start with the triangle fold, then fold the bottom corners up to meet the top.
| Folding Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Envelope Fold | Easy and quick to do; keeps purse flat and compact | Can be difficult to fit larger items in |
| Roll-and-Tuck | Compact and easy to fit into small spaces | Can be difficult to unfold and repack |
| Accordion Fold | Keeps purse organized and easy to access items | Can take up more space than other folding methods |
| Half-Fold | Simple and easy to do; keeps purse relatively flat | Can be difficult to fit bulky items in |
| Figure-Eight Fold | Keeps purse secure and closed | Can be difficult to do with larger purses |
| Triangle Fold | Compact and easy to store in small spaces | Can be difficult to access items in the center of the purse |
| Pyramid Fold | Keeps purse organized and easy to access items; compact | Can be difficult to do with larger purses |
Establish a Maintenance Routine
Maintaining an organized purse requires a consistent maintenance routine. Follow these steps regularly to keep your purse clean and clutter-free:
1. Empty Your Purse Daily
Remove everything from your purse at the end of each day to prevent items from accumulating. This allows you to sort through your belongings and discard any unnecessary items.
2. Clean the Exterior
Use a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior of your purse, paying special attention to handles and zippers. For leather purses, a leather conditioner can restore shine and prevent cracking.
3. Check for Stains
If you notice any stains, address them promptly to prevent them from setting. Use a mild cleaning solution or stain remover, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Clean the Interior
Vacuum the interior of your purse to remove crumbs or debris. For fabric linings, use a lint roller to gather loose threads or hair.
5. Sanitize Regularly
To prevent the spread of germs, sanitize the interior and exterior of your purse with an antibacterial spray or wipes. Pay attention to frequently touched areas like zippers and handles.
6. Rotate Items
To prevent items from becoming jammed or damaged, rotate the items you carry in your purse on a regular basis. This ensures even wear and tear.
7. Keep Essential Items Accessible
Place commonly used items, such as your phone, keys, and wallet, in easily accessible compartments. This will save you time and frustration when searching.
8. Compartmentalize and Use Accessories
Organize your purse using compartments, pouches, or inserts. This will help keep similar items together and prevent clutter. Consider using a purse organizer or wallet inserts to further maximize space and keep essentials organized.
| Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Compartments | Separate different categories of items, such as cosmetics, electronics, and documents. |
| Pouches | Store small or loose items, such as coins, jewelry, or makeup brushes. |
| Inserts | Provide additional structure and organization, typically with pockets or slots. |
| Purse Organizer | A dedicated organizer that fits inside your purse and provides compartments and pockets. |
| Wallet Inserts | Fit inside your wallet and organize cards, cash, and receipts. |
Repurpose Old Purses
Repurposing old purses is a creative way to give them a new lease on life and save money. Here are a few ideas:
1. Cosmetic Travel Bag
Large or medium-sized purses with zippered compartments can be used to organize toiletries for travel.
2. Jewelry Organizer
Small purses with multiple pockets can be used to store and organize jewelry, keeping it tangle-free and protected.
3. First-Aid Kit
Small purses can be kept in cars or backpacks for emergency situations, holding essential first-aid supplies.
4. Tech Accessories Holder
Purses with multiple compartments can organize cords, chargers, and other tech accessories, making them easy to find.
5. Stationery Case
Medium-sized purses with zippered compartments can be used to store and carry stationery items like pens, pencils, and notepads.
6. Camera Bag
Small purses with padded compartments can be used to protect cameras and lenses while traveling.
7. Gift Wrap Organizer
Large purses can be used to store and organize gift wrap paper, ribbons, and bows.
8. Pet Carrier
Small purses with mesh or ventilation holes can be used to carry small pets for short distances.
9. Planter
Small, sturdy purses made of leather or canvas can be repurposed as unique and stylish planters for small plants or succulents. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Choose a small purse with a sturdy base and a wide opening. |
| 2 | Line the purse with a plastic bag or dish to prevent soil leakage. |
| 3 | Fill the purse with potting mix, leaving some space at the top. |
| 4 | Create a hole in the plastic lining and plant the succulent or small plant. |
| 5 | Water the plant sparingly and place the purse in a location with indirect sunlight. |
Consider External Storage Options
1. Vertical Purse Display
Display your purses vertically with a purse organizer to save space and keep them neatly organized. Choose a freestanding or over-the-door model for added convenience.
2. Shelf Storage
Utilize shelves or baskets to store purses, especially larger ones or those you don’t use frequently. Arrange them vertically or horizontally to maximize space utilization.
3. Purse Cube Storage
Square or rectangular plastic storage cube units are a versatile solution for storing purses. They can be stacked or placed on shelves to provide ample and stackable space.
4. Hanging Purse Caddy
Hang a purse caddy over the back of a door or in a closet to store purses vertically without taking up floor space. The individual compartments keep purses separated and easily accessible.
5. Purse Hangers
Use purse hangers to suspend purses from a closet rod or shelf. They come in various shapes and sizes, allowing you to hang them vertically or horizontally, maximizing vertical storage space.
6. Pegboard Storage
Install a pegboard in your closet or entryway and use hooks to hang purses. This provides a flexible storage solution, allowing you to easily adjust the height and spacing of the hooks to accommodate different purses.
7. Floating Shelves
Mount floating shelves on walls or in closets to create additional storage space for purses. They provide a stylish and space-saving solution, keeping purses off the floor and within easy reach.
8. Closet Rod Organizer
Utilize a closet rod organizer to double the storage capacity of your closet rod. These organizers typically feature multiple shelves or compartments, allowing you to store purses vertically and maximize available space.
9. Headscarf Hangers
Use headscarf hangers to store purses with straps. The scarves wrap around the handles and secure them in place, preventing damage to delicate straps and keeping purses organized.
10. Purse Cube Storage with Dividers
Consider plastic storage cube units with internal dividers. These units provide additional compartmentalization, allowing you to organize purses based on size, style, or material. The dividers help keep purses upright and prevent them from spilling their contents.
How to Organize Purses
With a well-organized purse, finding your essentials will be much easier. Here are some tips on how to organize your purse and keep it that way:
Use a purse organizer
A purse organizer is a great way to keep your items organized and in place. There are many different styles of purse organizers available, so you can find one that fits your needs and the size of your purse.
Declutter regularly
Every once in a while, it’s a good idea to declutter your purse and get rid of anything you don’t need. This will help to keep your purse organized and make it easier to find what you’re looking for.
Keep it clean
A clean purse is a more organized purse. Regularly wipe down the inside and outside of your purse with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
Use zippered pockets
Zippered pockets are a great way to keep smaller items, like keys or coins, secure and organized.
Use a crossbody bag
A small crossbody bag is a great way to keep your essentials organized and close at hand while you’re on the go.
People also ask about How To Organize Purses
How often should I clean my purse?
You should aim to wipe down your purse with a damp cloth at least once a week. However, if you spilled something messy or use it often, you may need to clean it more frequently.
What is the best way to store purses?
The best way to store purses is to stuff them with tissue paper to help them keep their shape and prevent creases. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
How can I organize my purse without an organizer?
If you don’t want to use a purse organizer, you can try using smaller pouches or bags to organize your items. You can also use binder clips to keep cords and other small items organized.
