Declutter Bathroom Counters With A Thrift Store Essential

Let's be honest, your restroom vanity is probably the messiest part of the room. Don't worry, you're not alone. Here's a tip to help keep your bathroom clutter-free: organizational bins can go a long way. And the secondhand shop is full of them — even unconventional ones. Easily and stylishly declutter your bathroom counter of clunky hair care tools with a thrift store essential: a champagne ice bucket. It's tall enough to fit long, awkward-to-store styling equipment like straighteners, curlers, hair dryers, and hair brushes.

One of the most challenging things about finding an ice bucket while thrifting is differentiating it from other pails. Sometimes, you'll come across a vintage Art Deco piece you should definitely snag. Other times, you may encounter a modern version. Whether you have an old or new model, they all have the same basic features, like having enough insulation to stop ice from melting. They also keep beverages cold. You'll also find them in a range of materials, including stainless steel, acrylic, and glass. Some iterations have handles, lids, and even ice tongs or scoops.

Once you find an ice bucket you like, you'll need to clean it before using it in your bathroom. Begin with a basic clean without abrasive sponges or chemicals. That involves washing the surface with a soft, damp rag and mild soap. Treat stains that need additional help with a mixture of baking soda and water. Rinse the bucket and rub it dry with a soft rag or microfiber cloth. If you're not using it right away, store it in a dry area, protecting fragile glass pieces with a cloth. Otherwise, now that it is clean, you can use it in your bathroom.

Don't place that ice bucket just anywhere. Strategically style it so it looks good and functions well in your bathroom. Feel free to add ornamental elements to the container, whether that is waterproof paint, vinyl decals, ribbons, or stick-on bling. The goal is to make it match your existing bathroom aesthetic. Once you have decorated the bucket, pick the best spot for it. Since it's going to hold hair care tools, you will likely want to place it on your bathroom counter by a mirror — or wherever you usually do your hair. Don't be afraid, however, to put it elsewhere, even if that means stowing it under a counter or on a wall-mounted shelf.

After you find the perfect spot for your ice bucket, never just toss your equipment into it without properly preparing it. Dangling cords aren't very pleasing to look at, and moisture and curious kiddos or fur-babies can cause serious damage to the electronics (and the bucket). Instead, simplify your bathroom with a trick for wrapping the cords on your hair tools. Use your thumb to create a loop with the cord as you wrap it around the implement. Then use the loop to secure the cord and stop it unraveling. Once the cord is neatly tied away, stick the tool in the bucket. It's ready for you to use! Just remember to cool heated hair care tools completely before putting them away to reduce the chance of burning or melting the container.