Pinterest-Worthy Ways to Reuse Your Empty Makeup Containers

Letting go of that well-loved, perfect bronzer or that gorgeous fragrance bottle is never easy, even when there’s literally nothing inside. But rather than simply holding on to beloved empties and letting them create clutter, opt to upcycle them — A.K.A. keep those nostalgic makeup containers and turn them into something new, exciting and, most importantly, useful. 

Even though tossing your makeup after it expires is definitely an important and completely necessary thing to do, we’re all guilty of keeping products around well past that time. But that doesn’t mean the container has to go. After cleaning your makeup container completely to ensure that there’s no makeup left, try one of these five Pinterest-worthy ways to reuse your empty makeup containers and help organize and store your collection.

For the old lip balm you’ve had for years ...

Bobby pins are practically impossible to keep track of if you don’t have an organization system in place. Store them in an old lip balm container to ensure you’ll never lose them again, and pop it in your purse for safekeeping.

For your makeup compact with a mirror …

If your makeup compact has a mirror, you already have an alternate use for it. Throw it in your purse or gym bag to use as a touch-up mirror when you’re on the go. 

For your empty makeup compact without a mirror …

If your makeup compact doesn’t have a mirror, you can store mints, hair ties, earrings or other small necessities in it. If your compact is sectioned, consider organizing your vitamins or pills within them.

For empty bottles of perfume ...

Because we all know it’s way too difficult to dispose of a gorgeous (and expensive) perfume bottle, transform it into a small vase. You’ll instantly turn your perfume into a piece of timeless decor.

For setting spray bottles …

You’ll make good use of your setting spray bottles by cleaning them out and filling them with water, face toner, cleaning products, etc. Spray bottles come in handy for a multitude of uses.

For mascara wands …

Considering how quickly mascara gets used up, finding a way to upcycle at least part of the packaging is great for Mama Earth. Mascara wands are incredibly similar to spoolies, so they’re perfect for brushing up your eyebrows and combing through your lashes (just make sure to clean them first).