Do you have a large makeup collection? Are you thinking about making more space by storing some of it? We can understand but hope you’ll consider a few things first.
Ask yourself why you want to store your makeup. Is it because you don’t like a particular pi makeup? If that’s the case, then simply get rid of it. Rather than store what you don’t need, declutter by getting rid of it. We know, it’s tough to get rid of something you paid for. However, just because you bought something doesn’t mean it’s worth keeping.
When you declutter, chances are your makeup collection will shrink not only to not only a manageable size, but to the elements that you really like, and you won’t have to put any in storage at all.
We think the best reasons to put makeup in storage are if you’re preparing for a move and using a storage unit as a staging area before moving day, or if you run a business and need room for your overstock makeup inventory.
So, now we get to whether it’s safe to store makeup in self storage. The short answer is yes, but there are some things to keep in mind.
How Long Does Makeup Last?
Makeup doesn’t last as long as you might think, even when you haven’t cracked the seal.
When most makeup is unopened and stored in a cool, dry place, it will last two to three years. Creamy products last even less time, as they can go rancid, while eyeliner may last longer. Sharpen your eyeliner pencils before use.
Each makeup package should have the Period After Opening (PAO) symbol, which tells you how long the makeup should last, after you’ve opened it, in months. Usually, this will be three months to two years.
Besides storing your makeup in a cool, dry place, always wash your hands and face before applying makeup. This way, you’ll introduce as little bacteria as possible into the makeup and allow it to last longer.
Use Climate Control
We often recommend renting a unit with
climate control to keep your stuff in the best shape possible, especially if you live where the weather gets hot and humid, cold and dry, or both over the course of the year. Climate-controlled units are kept between 50 and 80 degrees, and between 30% and 50% humidity, ideal conditions for most belongings.
Makeup is especially sensitive and wherever you live, if you do store makeup, we encourage you to rent a unit with climate control. Makeup can easily dry out and crack, get too damp and grow bacteria, melt, and more. Even if you plan to store your makeup short-term, such as for a move, please get a unit with climate control. These units rent for about 30% more than standard units, but the protection is worthwhile.
Stick to Short Term Storage
While it’s safe to store a lot of belongings long-term, that’s not the case with makeup. We’ve covered expiration dates and how makeup doesn’t last as long as you might expect it to. If you sell makeup, perhaps at a retail store but need self storage to store inventory, make sure you stop by often to retrieve makeup and stock your shelves.
It’s easy to put a bunch of things in storage and forget about them. If you do this with makeup, there’s a good chance when you return to your unit you’ll find a lot of it has expired.
If you’re looking for a great self storage facility near you, check our listings, which cover the U.S. and Canada. You’ll find facilities with climate control, plus sites that specialize in RV and boat storage, business storage, and much more.
