Kipling Guide to Makeup Bags

A makeup bag is a small, portable container used to store and organize makeup and beauty products. Makeup bags can be made from a variety of materials and come in a range of sizes, shapes, and styles. They can have zippered or snap closures, with additional pockets or compartments to help keep items organized.


Makeup bags are designed to be lightweight and easy to carry, keeping your makeup organized and easily accessible when traveling. The bag can protect your cosmetics from damage and contain leaks or spills to protect your clothes and other items.

The key factors to think about when choosing a makeup bag are size and style. Use our comprehensive guide to explore the designs available. We’ve also included tips for organizing and cleaning your makeup bag, along with additional recommendations.


Makeup bag size

There are a wide variety of sizes of makeup bags to choose from. The smallest bags hold a few essential items, while the largest can hold a substantial cosmetic collection. Your choice should be based on how regularly you need to transport your products and how many items you have to store.



Small makeup bags

A small makeup bag is typically about the size of a wallet or a small clutch. At Kipling, our small and versatile pouches have a capacity 0.5 liters and can hold a few basic items, such as a compact mirror and a lipstick or two.

Small makeup bags are ideal for carrying daily essentials that you may need to use throughout the day. They are compact enough to easily fit inside your purse or handbag, allowing easy access whenever you need to refresh your makeup.


Medium makeup bags

Medium makeup bags can hold additional, slightly larger items such as brushes, foundation and mascara. There is no clear boundary between small and medium – it depends on your specific needs. Also, pay attention to the dimensions of the bag to make sure your brushes will fit inside.


Large makeup bags

Large makeup bags are perfect for traveling. Your beauty products will be secure and accessible when you are away from home. Large makeup bags have capacities over 1 liter and can fit everything you need.


How to choose a makeup bag

To choose a makeup bag, consider size, material, and additional features.

  • Size: To get a feel for the right capacity, start by laying out all the products you want to carry. Seeing everything together will help you select the right size bag for your specific needs.
  • Material: Choose a makeup bag made from a material that is durable and easy to clean. Canvas, leather, and nylon are all popular materials for makeup bags. Opt for fabrics that are simple to clean and that will contain any leaks.
  • Fastenings: Makeup bags can have zippered closures, snap closures, or no closures at all. Balance accessibility with security. You want to be able to access your products quickly, but you don’t want items falling out.
  • Pockets and compartments: Consider whether you need additional pockets or compartments to help organize your makeup and other beauty products. The more items you carry, the more useful it is to be able to sort them into separate areas.
  • Style: Choose a makeup bag that reflects your personal style. Consider the color, pattern, and overall design of the makeup bag, and opt for one that you will enjoy using


How to organize your makeup bag

To organize your makeup bag, select and arrange your products carefully. Dividers or compartments can keep similar products together. Resist the urge to dump everything in the bag quickly, as this will only make it harder to find what you need later, especially in larger bags.

  • Regular sorting: Go through your makeup and beauty products regularly and get rid of anything that is old, expired, or that you no longer use. This will help prevent clutter.
  • Separate: Use dividers, built-in compartments, or smaller bags to help organize your products. This can be especially useful for separating smaller items and preventing items from getting lost in the bottom of the bag.
  • Product type: Divide your makeup into categories such as foundation, powders, eye shadows, lip products, and so on. This can make it easier to find the products you need.
  • Upright: If your makeup bag has a deep main compartment, consider storing your makeup upright rather than laying it flat. This can make it easier to see and access your products.
  • Accessible: Keep the everyday makeup and beauty products you use most frequently at the top or front of your makeup bag. This can save you time and frustration when you are in a rush.

How to clean your makeup bag

Clean your makeup bag regularly to keep everything in good condition. Start by completely emptying the bag. Use a mild soap solution and warm water to wipe the inside and outside of the bag. Allow each compartment to dry fully before putting your products back in.

If spills or stains occur, try to clean them as soon as possible to prevent permanent damage. Use a cleaning solution or stain remover specifically designed for the type of material the makeup bag is made of. You can also learn more about cleaning your bag with our trusty guide to cleaning your Kipling bag


Kipling makeup bags

We love creating bags that benefit you and make your life easier. The variety of Kipling makeup bags offer pouches, cases, and toiletry bags specific to your needs. Whether you're heading off on a long trip or need something quick to grab and go, stay organized with a versatile Kipling bag.