How to Store Purses + Keep Their Shape

I used to own a lot of purses. Few of them were of great value, but they were all fun and suited various looks and needs. Since downsizing my wardrobe (see all my tips for a minimalist wardrobe), I have far fewer handbags. The one thing that is still the same, however, is how I store my purses.

A few minutes of proper storage helps prevent sagging, creases, and unnecessary wear, so your favorite bags last much longer. While purse organization may seem like yet another step, it’s actually quite easy. Once you have a filler set up for each purse, it’s simply a matter of taking it out when you use the bag and putting it back when you’re done.

CONTENTS

How to Store Purses

One of the things I’ve admired about all those closets I pinned on Pinterest is the orderliness of purses. I’d never really thought too much about storing purses until I got my Prada Saffiano Tote for graduation. Then I started researching and taking notes for proper purse storage protocol.

When we moved, I knew I wanted to have some sort of shelving for my bags and I knew that I needed space to store them without losing their shape and in a way I could see everything. Now that I have it all set up, I wanted to share a few things I’ve learned about how to store purses.

DIY Purse Storage Ideas

How to Store Tote Bags Properly So they Don’t Lose Shape

In between uses, purses can lose their shape because there’s nothing supporting them. Without that support, they start to sink in on themselves and lose their shape.

To prevent this, you want to fill your purses with tissue paper or other bags. I find tissue paper to be pretty easy for my handbags.

For my over the shoulder totes and bigger work bags, however, I use smaller reusable totes or flat bags. You don’t need to stuff them full, just enough to prevent bags from caving in.

For smaller crossbody bags, you can also tuck the straps inside to create the filler, but beware that the straps might become bendy if you don’t use them too often.

Purse Fillers To Keep Shape

You know I’m big on reusing items rather than buying new now. When I first started ‘stuffing’ my purses to help them keep their shape at least 15 years ago, it was possibly my first upcycling! My favorite items to use to fill purses are usually packing materials and plastic bags. They’re soft, take up space, and easily form to the shapes you need.

Packing Materials

Packing materials like air pouches, bubble wrap, and crinkled paper are the absolute best. You can also use those bubble mailers (think Amazon shipping bags). You can fill them with other materials for extra bulk, or simply roll them to the size you need.

Plastic Bags

I use plastic bags (so much more sustainable than throwing them in the trash and even better than plastic bag recycling). There are two ways to use them. The first is to use the bags to hold other materials. I like the bags for this so you can mold your materials to the shape needed and then easily pull them out when you want to use the bag.

Fill one plastic bag with additional plastic bags until it’s firm enough to support the shape of your purse. A floppier bag might need more stiff filling to maintain a shape. I also use this trick to fill my tall boots to hold their shape.

Cardboard

I use cardboard to help maintain the shape of the bottom of flat bags – namely totes. And this isn’t just for storage – it stays in the bag at all times. I cut a sturdy piece of cardboard to the size of the bottom interior. Then I wrapped it in a dust bag from a pair of shoes (any cloth bag of size will do). This keeps the bottom of your bag from sagging and provides a bit of protection in case anything spills or leaks in your bag.

Purse Storage Ideas

The second step in storing purses properly is standing them upright after you’ve stuffed them. This is easiest if you place similarly-sized bags next to one another. Try not to smash them together (or you’ll get creases).

For the bags that don’t fit on the shelves…. Place the bigger bags next to your shelving (again with like sizes), place them atop the shelving, or hang them from hooks. I used a belt hook here for my gray and gold bags.

And when you think you might have too many bags (these photos are old and I own very few of them still), look at the steps for a straightforward closet purge that applies to your purses too!

How to Store Leather Purses

Leather purses need a little extra care to help them keep their shape, color, and finish over time. Unlike synthetic materials, leather can dry out, absorb moisture, and develop creases if they’re stored improperly.

Before putting a leather purse away, empty the pockets and gently wipe away any dust or surface dirt. To help your purse hold its shape, loosely stuff it with any of the above packing materials or even a clean cotton t-shirt.

If your purse has a chain strap, tuck it inside the bag or wrap it in a soft cloth before storing it. This helps prevent the chain from scratching or denting the leather over time.

Whenever possible, store leather handbags in the dust bag they came with. If you no longer have the original dust bag, a breathable cotton pillowcase works well. Skip plastic storage bags or airtight containers, since leather needs airflow and trapped moisture can lead to mildew (this goes for shoes too).

Store leather purses upright on a shelf in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heating vents, and damp areas. If needed, use a leather cleaner that’s appropriate for the type of leather your bag is made from or take it to a local cobbler (“shoe repair”) as they focus on leather!

Suede handbags should also be stored in breathable dust bags, but avoid overhandling them since the nap can become worn or flattened.

How To Store Clutch Bags

Clutch bags are often smaller and don’t often have straps. You can use some paper to provide some filler inside – this helps it keep its shape. I prefer to stack my clutch bags upright and next to each other on the shelf – they help hold one another up. You can also stack them flat, on top of one another, but you absolutely need to be sure to stuff them appropriately so they hold their shape.

Burgundy Coat Outfit - Second Trimester Fall/Winter Outfit

What Not to Do When Storing Purses

Don’t store purses on the floor. They can collect dust, moisture, and pet hair.
Don’t overstuff your bags. Fill them just enough to help them keep their shape without stretching the material.
Don’t stack heavy bags on top of delicate ones. The weight can flatten or crease softer purses.
Don’t hang heavy handbags by their straps for long-term storage. Over time, the straps can stretch or become misshapen.
Don’t store leather purses in plastic bags or airtight containers. Leather needs airflow to help prevent trapped moisture and mildew.
Don’t leave purses in direct sunlight or near heat sources. Excessive heat and sunlight can fade colors and dry out leather.