If you’re a handbag or purse lover, you know how difficult it can be to keep your collection organized and stored properly. This can be especially challenging if you have limited space in your home, leading you to consider storing your handbags and purses in your garage. However, storing your bags in the garage requires some careful consideration to ensure they remain in good condition.
One of the first things to consider when storing handbags and purses in your garage is the type of storage containers you will use. Plastic totes are a popular option, but make sure to choose ones with tight-fitting lids to keep out dust and moisture. You can also use hanging organizers or shelving units, as long as they are sturdy enough to support the weight of your bags.
Another important consideration is the environment in your garage. Extreme temperatures and humidity can damage leather and other materials, so it’s important to store your bags in a climate-controlled area if possible. You may also want to consider using silica gel packets or other moisture-absorbing materials to help protect your bags from moisture damage. With a little bit of planning and care, you can safely store your handbags and purses in your garage and keep them in great condition for years to come.
Why Proper Handbag Storage is Important
If you’re like most people, you probably have a collection of handbags and purses that you’ve accumulated over the years. These items can be quite an investment, so it’s important to take care of them properly. Proper storage is key to keeping your handbags and purses in good condition.
Here are a few reasons why proper handbag storage is important:
Protects from Damage
Storing your handbags and purses in the right way can help protect them from damage. Leather bags, for example, can crack and fade if they’re exposed to direct sunlight or high temperatures. By storing them in a cool, dry place, you can help prevent this damage from occurring.
Keeps Them Clean
Dust, dirt, and other debris can accumulate on your handbags and purses over time. This can cause discoloration and damage to the material. By storing your bags in a dust bag or on a shelf, you can help keep them clean and free from debris.
Maximizes Space
Proper storage can also help you maximize the space you have available. By organizing your handbags and purses, you can make the most of your storage space and keep everything easily accessible.
Prolongs Lifespan
Finally, proper storage can help prolong the lifespan of your handbags and purses. By keeping them in good condition, you can ensure that they’ll last for years to come.
Overall, proper handbag storage is an important part of taking care of your collection. By following a few simple tips and tricks, you can keep your bags in great condition and enjoy them for years to come.
Preparing Your Handbags for Storage
Before storing your handbags in your garage, you need to prepare them properly to ensure that they stay in good condition. Here are some steps you can take to prepare your handbags for storage:
Cleaning Your Handbags
Before storing your handbags, it’s essential to clean them thoroughly to remove any dirt, dust, or stains. Use a soft cloth or brush to remove any dirt or debris from the surface of your handbag. If your handbag has any stains, use a mild detergent and a damp cloth to gently clean the affected area.
If your handbag has any hardware, such as buckles or zippers, you should also clean them with a soft cloth to remove any dirt or debris. You can use a lint roller to remove any lint or hair from your handbag’s surface. Once you’ve finished cleaning your handbag, make sure to let it dry completely before storing it.
Stuffing Your Handbags
To help your handbags maintain their shape while in storage, you should stuff them with tissue paper or bubble wrap. This will help prevent your handbags from becoming misshapen or developing creases. Make sure to stuff your handbag gently and avoid overstuffing it, as this can cause damage to the material.
Using Dust Bags
Using dust bags is an excellent way to protect your handbags from dust, dirt, and other debris while in storage. If your handbag came with a dust bag, use it to store your handbag. If it didn’t come with a dust bag, you can use a cotton pillowcase or a clean, breathable fabric bag instead.
When storing your handbags in your garage, make sure to keep them away from direct sunlight and moisture. You can also place a moisture absorber, such as silica gel, in the storage container to help prevent mildew or mold from developing.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your handbags stay in good condition while in storage.
Choosing the Right Storage Space
When it comes to storing your handbags and purses in your garage, it’s important to choose the right storage space to ensure that your items remain organized and undamaged. Here are some tips to help you choose the right storage space:
Evaluating Your Closet Space
Before you start storing your handbags and purses in your garage, it’s important to evaluate your closet space. Determine how much space you have available and whether it’s enough to accommodate all of your items. Take measurements of your closet and your largest handbag, and take the area you intend to store them into account. This will help you choose the right size of boxes or bins.
Garage Storage Ideas
If you have a garage, it can be a great place to store your handbags and purses. There are many garage storage ideas that you can use to keep your items organized and easily accessible. For example, you can use wall-mounted shelves or pegboards to hang your handbags and purses. You can also use plastic bins or cubbies to store your items.
Using Plastic Bins and Shelves
Plastic bins and shelves are a great option for storing your handbags and purses in your garage. They are durable and can withstand the elements, making them ideal for use in a garage environment. You can use clear plastic bins to store your items, which will make it easy to see what you have and find what you need.
Using a Bookcase or Cubbies
If you have a small space, a bookcase or cubbies can be a great option for storing your handbags and purses. You can use a bookcase to store your larger handbags and purses, and cubbies to store your smaller items. This will help you keep your items organized and easily accessible.
In conclusion, choosing the right storage space is crucial when it comes to storing your handbags and purses in your garage. By evaluating your closet space, using garage storage ideas, using plastic bins and shelves, and using a bookcase or cubbies, you can keep your items organized and easily accessible.
Hanging Handbags and Purses
If you’re short on shelf space or simply prefer to keep your handbags and purses off the floor, hanging them up can be a great option. Here are a few ways to hang your bags in your garage:
Using Hooks
One of the simplest ways to hang your bags is by using hooks. You can install hooks on a wall or even on the side of a cabinet. Make sure the hooks are sturdy enough to hold the weight of your bags, and try to space them out evenly so your bags aren’t crowded.
Hanging Purse Organizers
Another option is to use a hanging purse organizer. These organizers typically have several pockets or compartments, each designed to hold a different bag. You can hang the organizer on a hook or even on a clothes rod. This is a great option if you have a large collection of bags and want to keep them organized and easily accessible.
Using a Coat Rack
If you have a coat rack in your garage, you can use it to hang your bags as well. Simply hang your bags from the hooks on the coat rack, making sure to space them out so they don’t get tangled. This is a good option if you don’t have a lot of bags and want to keep them all in one place.
When hanging your bags, it’s important to take care not to damage the handles or straps. Make sure the hooks or hangers you use are smooth and won’t scratch or dent your bags. You may also want to stuff your bags with tissue paper or bubble wrap to help them keep their shape while hanging.
Overall, hanging your handbags and purses in your garage can be a great way to keep them organized and easily accessible. Whether you choose to use hooks, a hanging purse organizer, or a coat rack, make sure to take care when hanging your bags to avoid damage.
Storing Handbags Upright
When it comes to storing handbags and purses in your garage, keeping them upright is key to maintaining their shape and preventing damage. Here are a few ways to store your handbag collection upright:
Using Shelf Dividers
If you have shelves in your garage, using shelf dividers can help keep your bags upright and organized. Place the dividers on the shelf, and then line up your bags vertically between them. This will prevent your bags from toppling over and getting crushed.
Using Purse Organizers
Purse organizers are another great way to store your handbags upright. These organizers typically come with hooks that you can attach to a door or tension rod. Hang one purse from each hook on the organizer, and place smaller purses on top and larger purses near the bottom. This will keep your bags visible and within easy reach.
Using Pegboard
Pegboard is a versatile storage solution that can be used to store a variety of items, including handbags. Install a pegboard on your garage wall, and then use hooks to hang your bags. You can even use shelf brackets to create a shelf for your bags to sit on.
No matter which method you choose, it’s important to keep your bags organized and within easy reach. By storing them upright, you’ll be able to maintain their shape and prevent damage.
Protecting Your Handbags
When storing handbags in your garage, it’s important to take steps to protect them from dust, moisture, and other potential hazards. Here are some tips on how to keep your handbags in good condition:
Using Tissue Paper and Bubble Wrap
To help your handbags keep their shape while in storage, place packing paper, white tissue paper, pillow purse inserts, or shapers inside each bag. Never use dyed tissue paper or newspaper. Both can bleed inks or dyes onto the fabric of your purse. You can also use bubble wrap to cushion your handbags and prevent scratches or scuffs.
Using Dust Bags
Dust bags are a great way to protect your handbags from dust and other debris. They are usually made of soft, breathable fabric that won’t scratch or damage your bags. Simply slip your handbag into the dust bag and tie the drawstring to keep it secure. If you don’t have a dust bag, you can also use a cotton pillowcase of a neutral color to prevent color transfer.
Using Original Boxes
If you have the original box for your handbag, use it to store your bag. Otherwise, line your bags up on a shelf in your garage. Make sure the shelf is not too high or too low so that the handles of the bag are not pressed down. This can cause the bag to stretch out of shape over time.
Other Tips
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when storing your handbags:
- Avoid storing your handbags in direct sunlight, as this can cause leather and patent leather to fade or discolor.
- Don’t hang your bags, as this can distort the shape of the handles.
- If you have a detachable shoulder strap, remove and store it inside the bag or in a separate dust bag.
- Use bag organizers to keep your handbags upright and in order on your shelf.
By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your handbags stay in great condition while stored in your garage.
Conclusion
Storing handbags and purses in your garage can be a great way to keep them organized and out of the way. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can ensure that your bags stay in good condition and are easy to access when you need them.
If you’re looking for a professional solution, consider investing in a handbag storage system from a company like The Container Store. These systems can be customized to fit your specific needs and can help you make the most of your garage space.
For those who want a more unusual solution, there are plenty of DIY options available. For example, you could repurpose an old bookshelf or dresser to create a unique storage solution for your bags.
When it comes to fashion, it’s important to remember that different materials require different storage methods. For example, leather bags should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent cracking and fading. Fabric bags, on the other hand, can be stored in a breathable bag to prevent mildew.
If you’re looking for more tips and tricks, be sure to check out our handbag storage page for more ideas. And remember, a little bit of glue can go a long way when it comes to repairing broken straps or buckles. With a little bit of effort, you can keep your handbags looking great for years to come.
