Taming the Toiletry Drawer

Tiny Bottles, Big Clutter: What to Do with All Those Travel-Size Toiletries

If you’ve ever opened a bathroom cabinet or suitcase pocket and found a small army of tiny shampoos, mini toothpastes, and hotel soaps, you’re not alone. Travel-size toiletries and sample-sized products tend to multiply—quietly and quickly. They’re cute, convenient, and often free… but over time, they can start to take up more space (and mental energy) than they’re worth.

So, should you keep them? Let’s unpack that—plus how to responsibly declutter your collection and pass along the extras to people who truly need them.

Why We Hang On to Travel Sizes

Mini toiletries are designed to be useful: they’re TSA-friendly, easy to toss in a gym bag, and perfect for guests. But we also tend to keep them because:

• They’re free – Who doesn’t grab a hotel shampoo “just in case”?

• They feel too small to bother with – Tossing them seems wasteful, but using them up can feel inconvenient.

• We think we’ll need them someday – A future trip, an overnight guest, an emergency kit.

But how many "just in case" items do you realistically need—and how many are just cluttering up your drawers?

When to Keep Them

You don’t have to get rid of all your mini products. In fact, keeping a small collection on hand can be helpful. Here are a few smart ways to use them:

• Create a ready-to-go travel kit – Stock a quart-size bag with one of each item you truly use when traveling.

• Make a guest basket – A few thoughtfully chosen minis can make overnight guests feel welcome.

• Use them up in rotation – Instead of waiting for a trip, incorporate them into your regular routine (especially if you’re running low on something).

• Keep emergency supplies – A few basics in your car, work bag, or kids’ backpacks can come in handy.

If you’re using them with intention, great! But if they’re collecting dust and crowding your cabinets, it might be time to downsize.

Signs It’s Time to Declutter

• You have more than 2 of the same item (hello, 8 mini mouthwashes).

• You’ve had them for years and don’t remember where they came from.

• The packaging is discolored, sticky, or leaking.

• You only keep them out of guilt—not because you’ll actually use them.

Let go of the pressure to keep every freebie. Keeping clutter out of your home creates space for things that actually support your life.

How to Downsize Your Collection

Ready to clear out the clutter? Here’s a quick process that works:

1. Gather it all in one place – Take out every mini product, hotel sample, and foil packet. You’ll be surprised how many you’ve collected.

2. Sort by type – Group shampoos, soaps, lotions, dental items, makeup, perfume, etc.

3. Check expiration dates – Yes, toiletries expire! Toss anything that’s old, dried out, or smells “off.”

4. Set a limit – Decide how many of each item you actually need. (Example: 1 travel toothpaste, 1 shampoo, 1 lotion, 1 deodorant, 1 razor.) Or a drawer/bin that serves as a visual reminder for how much space you truly have. Once it’s full, toss the rest.

5. Create a dedicated space – Store your keepers in a labeled container, zippered pouch, or travel bag. Contain what remains so it’s easy to find—and easy to use. Who had bought duplicate items because they thought they were out only to find extra products hidden in the back of your cabinet? I confess that I too am guilty.

What to Do with the Extras

Once you’ve edited your collection, you might be wondering what to do with the rest. Don’t throw them away—unopened and lightly used items can often be donated to people in need.

Here are a few responsible donation options:

1. Homeless Shelters & Transitional Housing Programs

Many shelters are in constant need of hygiene items, especially travel-size toiletries that are easy to hand out or pack in kits. Call first to ask what they accept.

2. Mutual Aid Groups & Street Outreach Teams

Local volunteer-run groups often assemble care kits for homeless neighbors. Travel-sized items are ideal for backpacks and on-the-go distribution.

3. Women’s Shelters or Domestic Violence Centers

Shelters supporting women and families often welcome personal care donations, especially for new residents arriving with very little.

4. Blessing Bags or Care Kits

Consider assembling your own small kits with toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, lotion, and wipes, then donating them to outreach organizations or handing them out yourself if you feel comfortable.

5. Schools or Youth Programs

Some schools and youth centers keep hygiene supplies on hand for students in need—especially deodorant, toothpaste, and shampoo.

A Few Donation Tips:

• Only donate new or gently used items. If a bottle is nearly empty or dirty, go ahead and toss it.

• Bundle items in ziplock bags for easy transport and distribution.

• Label items clearly if the packaging is worn or unclear.

In Summary

You don’t have to give up travel-size toiletries entirely. But letting go of the extras—the stuff you’ll never use—can free up space, simplify your routine, and give others access to essentials they might be missing.

So go ahead: edit your collection, stock your travel bag, and pass the rest along.
Because small items can still make a big difference—especially when they’re no longer just taking up space in your drawer.

Want help decluttering your bathroom or prepping donation bags? Let’s talk—we’re here to make organizing feel doable, not overwhelming.

Jessica is the founder of Signature Organizing, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Washington (servicing the greater Eastside and Seattle area). She loves transforming chaos into functional spaces and is known for bringing creative solutions to improve the quality of life for her clients. She shares her tips and tricks on Instagram @signatureorganizing