Earrings can easily become disorganized if not properly stored. When earrings are unorganized, it can be frustrating and time-consuming trying to find pairs. Luckily, there are many simple ways to keep your earring collection neat and tidy. Proper earring organization will save you time and headache when getting ready in the morning or searching for a specific pair. This article will provide tips on the best methods for organizing your earrings based on type, size, and color. With some preparation and supplies, you can create a system that works for your unique earring collection.
Should I organize by type?
Organizing your earrings by type or style is one of the most common and effective methods. This involves grouping together earrings of the same type, such as studs, hoops, chandeliers, dangles, climbers, huggies, etc. Within each type, you can further organize by size, material, or color.
Some benefits to organizing by type are:
- Allows you to see all earrings of one style together in one place
- Makes it easy to find replacements if you lose one from a pair
- Lets you coordinate and accessorize outfits more easily
The downside is that you may have pairs separated if you have the same style in different materials or colors. You will need to develop a system for keeping pairs together. Overall, this method works best if you have a wide variety of earring styles.
How to organize by type
To organize your earrings by type, follow these steps:
- Get supplies – storage containers, compartments, dividers, etc.
- Look through your earrings and group identical styles together.
- Designate containers or compartments for each type.
- Place earrings in their matching type container.
- Consider separating further by size, color, or material.
- Label the containers.
Clear plastic containers, jewelry trays, divided compartments, and standing displays work well for this method. Labeling helps identify each category.
Should I organize by size?
Organizing earrings by size can also be effective. This involves grouping earrings from small studs to large hoops and chandeliers. The benefit of this method is seeing all sizes together and identifying any gaps in your collection.
How to organize by size
Follow these tips when organizing by size:
- Measure and separate earrings into size groups – extra small, small, medium, large, extra large.
- Place same size earrings together in compartmentalized storage, trays, or standing displays.
- Start with the smallest earrings in front and increase in size towards the back.
- Label each section by size.
- Keep pairs together with mini rubber bands or nick nacks.
The downside to this method is that you lose grouping by style. Using clear divided containers helps retain visibility of each pair while keeping them separated by size.
Should I organize by color?
Organizing by color creates a rainbow effect for easy coordination. The benefit is seeing all shades of a particular color family together. This makes accessorizing for outfits simpler.
How to organize by color
- Get supplies like compartmentalized plastic bins, trays, or lipstick holders.
- Separate earrings into color families – red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, neutral, metallic.
- Place same color earrings together in a container and label by color.
- Consider subdividing further by type or size within each color.
- Keep pairs together using mini rubber bands, baggies, or designated spaces.
The limitation is losing the grouping by type or size. Use this method in combination with other grouping approaches for the best organization.
Should I organize by season or occasion?
Organizing earrings by season or occasion is helpful for pulling together complete looks.
Seasonal organization
- Spring – florals, pale colors, delicate metals
- Summer – bright colors, seashells, lightweight materials
- Fall – deep tones, leaves, dark metals
- Winter – sparkle, jewel tones, quilted textures
Occasion organization
- Work – studs, simple metals, diamonds
- Casual – fun shapes, boho styles, bright colors
- Evening – chandeliers, bold gems, heavy materials
- Bridal – pearls, crystals, hair combs
Label each section by season or occasion for quick accessorizing. The limitation is splitting up pairs that work for multiple seasons or occasions.
Should I organize by material?
Grouping earrings by material – gold, silver, diamond, pearl, etc. – helps protect them and make care easier.
Benefits include:
- Keeping reactive metals apart prevents tarnishing.
- Storing delicate materials separately avoids damage.
- Allows targeted cleaning by material needs.
Limitations are splitting up styles and colors. Use this method in combination with other organizational approaches.
What supplies do I need to organize my earrings?
Having the right supplies makes organizing earrings much easier. Here are some supplies to consider:
Storage containers
Plastic bins, trays, tackle boxes, acrylic organizers with compartments
Dividers
Small cardboard or plastic dividers, slotted inserts, fabric or foam spacers
Displays
Wall-mounted displays, counter top jewelry stands, hanging earring organizers
Labels
Stickers, tags, adhesive labels to mark categories
Pair keepers
Mini rubber bands, jewlery tape, baggies
Cleaning items
Jewelry cleaner, soft cloths, toothbrush, gloves
Buy supplies specific to your collection size and organizational method. Invest in quality products that will last and provide security.
Top tips for organizing earrings
Keep these top tips in mind when organizing your earring collection:
- Group identical pairs together.
- Use containers suited to your space.
- Start by sorting by metal type or material.
- Separate posts, wires, and clip-ons.
- Designate a space just for earrings.
- Link pairs that can’t be stored together.
- Label your organizational categories.
- Clean earrings before storing.
- Store delicate, valuable earrings in a box.
- Hang earrings on peg boards or racks for visibility.
Common ways to store earrings
There are many creative storage solutions for keeping earrings tangle-free and protected. Consider these common earring storage ideas:
Jewelry boxes
Traditional jewelry boxes with small divided compartments are ideal for delicate and valuable earrings. The lidded design provides security and prevents dust buildup. Stackable boxes save space.
Plastic containers
Plastic bins, tackle boxes, and compartmentalized desktop organizers work great for casual earring storage. Look for transparent options to view contents easily.
Wall displays
Hanging earring organizers that mount to the wall provide open storage with visibility. Fitting over-the-door options are also space-saving.
Jewelry trays
Flat trays with many divided sections keep pairs organized and accessible on your dresser or vanity. Angled displays showcase earrings while preventing tangles.
Standing racks
Free-standing jewelry racks and tiered displays keep earrings untangled and in clear view. Rotating organizers allow you to see both sides.
Pegboards
Turn a piece of pegboard into an earring organizer using hooks, clips, and strips. Paint or cover with fabric for a custom look.
Rolling carts
Multi-level rolling jewelry carts with drawers, surfaces, and compartments neatly store hundreds of pairs while keeping them mobile.
Special storage needs
Certain earring types may require dedicated storage solutions:
Stud earrings
Use small compartments or purchase special stud earring organizers to prevent losing backs. Magnetic boxes are convenient for keeping pairs together while putting on.
Hoop earrings
Slotted inserts, dividers with holes, or designated compartments keep hoops from bending and tangling. Some Displays are designed just for hanging hoop earrings.
Clip-on earrings
Keep clips stored flat in a compartment or pouch to prevent warping. Mini plastic bags work to pair clips with their posts.
Heavy earrings
Use felt-lined compartments or individual boxes to protect heavier statement earrings from damage while stored.
Valuable earrings
Store fine metals, gemstones, and heirloom earrings in a locked jewelry box or secured case for protection and security.
Maintenance tips
Proper maintenance keeps your earrings organized and in great shape:
- Clean earrings periodically using polishing cloths, jewelry cleaner, or mild soap and water.
- Use anti-tarnish strips in storage containers to prevent metal discoloration.
- Keep dry to avoid tarnish and mildew damage.
- Inspect posts and backings regularly and replace as needed.
- Store earrings away from direct sunlight and humidity which can damage materials.
- Place delicate materials on soft surfaces to avoid scratches.
- Repair any loose or damaged settings promptly.
Regular inspection ensures your collection stays organized and in good condition.
FAQs
How do I store expensive earrings?
Keep fine jewelry and heirloom earrings locked in a safe or jewelry box for security. Store in separate compartments or pouches to protect from damage.
Where should I store my earring collection?
Choose a dresser, closet, or shelf location that is dry, avoids direct light, and prevents dust buildup. Install a hanging earring organizer inside a closet door to save space.
How do I stop earrings from getting tangled?
Use compartmentalized containers, slotted inserts, dividers, or individual baggies to separate earrings. Hang earrings individually on hooks or clips to prevent knots.
How do I clean earrings before storing?
Use a soft cloth to gently polish metal earrings. Soak pearls and delicate materials in mild soap and water, then pat dry with a soft cloth. Store completely dry to prevent tarnish and mildew.
What’s the best way to store clip-on earrings?
Lay clip earrings flat in a compartmentalized container away from posts to prevent warping. Pair clips with posts in labeled resealable plastic bags.
Conclusion
Organizing your earring collection keeps special pairs secure, prevents losing mates, and makes accessorizing a breeze. Use labeled containers suited for your space and grouping preferences. Maintain earrings by cleaning and storing properly. Invest in quality displays, racks, and jewelry boxes to preserve your investment. With a little time and effort, you can create a personalized organization system that meets all your earring storage needs!