7 clever ways to store handbags and save space

Handbags on shelf
Handbags on shelf (Image credit: Shutterstock)

If your bag collection (or partner's) is taking over your closet, it can be tricky to keep everything tidy and in order. This is especially the case when they come in all different shapes and sizes, and often ends up in a messy pile. 

Luckily, there are some clever ways to store handbags and save space. Similar to knowing how to organize your wardrobe, these tips will make your collection more tidy, and easier to find your favorites. What’s more, proper storage will cut down on the clutter, and keep your handbags in tip-top shape.

So, if you want to organize your handbag collection like a pro, here are 7 clever ways to store handbags and save space. 

1. Shelf dividers 

Handbag shelf divider

Handbag shelf divider (Image credit: Amazon)

If you have a pile of handbags strewn all over a closet shelf, invest in shelf dividers. These are a great way to separate and keep handbags upright in place. Not only will dividers prevent any bags from spilling into each other, and keep everything tidy, but it makes it much easier to see everything at a glance. 

These are suitable for any sized shelf, and you can customize to your preference. You can easily install acrylic shelf dividers for clear partitions, such as these Hmdivor Clear Acrylic Shelf Dividers — 8 pack ($26, Amazon), to organize your collection. 

2. Stylish storage baskets  

Storage crates and baskets

Storage crates and baskets (Image credit: Shutterstock)

When you want to maximize on floor or closet space, organize your handbags in stylish storage crates or baskets. From woven to wire baskets, these handy organizers will keep handbags tidy, and they can be placed anywhere. 

You can find various sizes and styles to accommodate your collection, like these Woven Storage Baskets For Organizing - set of 9 ($38, Amazon), which also make a nice addition to your home decor. 

3. Create a handbag drawer 

Bags in a drawer

Bags in a drawer (Image credit: Shutterstock)

Alternatively, if you want to keep your collection out of sight, allocate a spare drawer in your bedroom or closet to store handbags. You can either organize items in size order, styles or even color-coordinate. Ideally, this should be a shallow-depth drawer so your pieces are easily accessible, and you don’t have to delve down to find your favorites.

What’s more, a dedicated drawer will make it far easier to find things, and free up valuable space.

4. Display on a bookshelf

Handbags on bookshelf

Handbags on bookshelf (Image credit: Shutterstock)

If you lack closet space, why not display them on shelves instead? Floating shelves or cubbies are a great way to maximize on space, and add character to a room. 

Whether handbags are placed on bookshelf units or lined up on an empty shelf, you can curate and display your favorite items. Not only will they be accessible to just grab-and-go, but will make an eye-catching wall feature. 

5. Hang on wall hooks 

Handbags on a wall

Handbags on a wall (Image credit: Shutterstock)

Similarly, you can just opt to display your collection on wall hooks. If you have a blank canvas, simply hang your favorite items on hooks to keep them visible, and add vibrant, wall decor. 

Depending on your space, simply wall-mount your hooks, and experiment with placing items at different height levels. Just ensure they’re all kept neatly, and not too bunched together.

6. Acrylic boxes

Acrylic boxes for handbags

Acrylic boxes for handbags (Image credit: Amazon)

If you have smaller or delicate handbags or purses, you can store them in acrylic boxes. These are another great way to display individual items, and keep them protected from dust or damage. Acrylic boxes like these Acrylic Display Case for Handbag and Purse - 3 pack ($39, Amazon), to separate bags, or group smaller coin purses, wallets or clutch bags together. 

Not only do the clear boxes make it easier to see all your handbags, but will also make a professional display to rival the stores! Another good idea is to use acrylic magazine holders, which are also great for organizing smaller items. 

7. Hanging organizers 

Handbag hanging holder

Handbag hanging holder (Image credit: Amazon)

Alternatively, vertical storage can free up valuable space, and hanging handbag organizers are a great option. You can invest in ones that can either hang on a rail inside your closet, or over the back of the door. These usually come with individual pockets, and side compartments to place all your handbags in an organized manner.

In addition, they’re designed from woven or non-woven, breathable materials that are also anti-dust. You can find various styles online much like this LONGTEAM Hanging Purse Handbag Organizer ($18, Amazon), to display your handbags. These are ideal for protecting and keeping your collection in good condition all year round. 

More from Tom's Guide

Cynthia Lawrence
Content Editor, Homes

As the Homes Content Editor, Cynthia Lawrence covers all things homes, interior decorating, and garden-related. She has a wealth of editorial experience testing the latest, ‘must-have’ home appliances, writing buying guides and the handy ‘how to’ features. 

Her work has been published in various titles including, T3, Top Ten Reviews, Ideal Home, Real Homes, Livingetc. and House Beautiful, amongst many.

With a rather unhealthy obsession for all things homes and interiors, she also has an interior design blog for style inspiration and savvy storage solutions (get rid of that clutter!). When she’s not testing cool products, she’ll be searching online for more decor ideas to spruce up her family home or looking for a great bargain!

Read more
Clothes hanging in white closet
I tried this $9 organization hack and it instantly doubled my closet space
Modern white living room with wooden features
5 quick ways I hide clutter around my home and make it stylish
BISSA shoe cabinet
I just upgraded my home with these 5 IKEA items — and I've never been more organized
Someone organizing clothes on shelves
5 best organizing tips for the new year — all from professional organizers
Living room
7 ways to upgrade your home for the new year on a budget
A pile of new gear from ikea
I revamped my whole office storage system with one trip to IKEA — and I spent less than $150
Latest in Home
A mosquito resting on a plant
Experts predict a spring surge in these 9 pest populations — here's what's forecast for your area
Breville Air Fryer toaster
Hot deal! Breville’s Smart Oven Air Fryer is $70 off for Amazon's Big Spring Sale
De'Longhi Linea Classic
De'Longhi's timeless new Linea Classic espresso machine is shockingly affordable, and ideal for small kitchens
The new Husqvarna iQ series robot lawn mower.
Husqvarna’s new robot mowers offer GPS for less
Roborock Saros Z70
Roborock's new robot vacuum that comes with a robotic arm is now available to buy
the dyson airwrap ID in teal and terracotta colorway (patina and orange) with a lapis case, with a brush, hairfryer, curling wand attachments
I'm so sick of everything being 'smart' — and the Dyson Airwrap i.d. I've been testing is the last straw
Latest in How To
An image of an iPhone screen showing the Safari app icon in the center
I got tired of Safari revealing my web searches in iOS 18.4 — this setting fixes that
Gmail logo on iPhone
I used Google Gemini to declutter my Gmail account — here's how you can do it too
AirPods Pro 2 in hand
Your earbuds are disgusting — here's the right way to clean them
ChatGPT logo on a smartphone screen being held outside
7 biggest ChatGPT mistakes — and how to fix them
a photo of a woman looking at her fitness tracker
Forget the treadmill — I boosted my metabolism and walked 2,000 steps with this 15-minute workout
a photo of a woman out for a walk
Forget running — I did this one thing to boost the calorie burn on my daily walks