I Started Using This Living Room Staple in My Bedroom
As someone obsessed with skincare (as a beauty editor, it is quite literally my job), I’ll admit my nighttime routine is a bit excessive. Serums, creams, devices — you name it, I have it. But the clutter? Not so much my style. My bedside table looked like a beauty supply dumping ground for a while, so I needed a solution that kept my routine streamlined, the table clear, and my fancy devices at my beck and call. If only I had a skincare trolley that came by nightly to offer me the items I needed when I needed them and were out of sight when I didn’t.
Here’s the thing: I don’t use everything every single night, but I like knowing certain items are within reach when I do need them. My skincare collection is comprehensive (think: microcurrent devices, LED masks, gua sha tools, facial rollers, and creams for every conceivable skin concern). I tried baskets under my bed, trays on my nightstand, and a dedicated drawer in my dresser, among others, but they either looked messy or were inconvenient. And unless things are within arm’s reach while I’m in bed, chances are I won’t use them.
Enter: the bar cart. It rolls right into your living room and provides a space to mix all your drinks, which also happen to be conveniently tucked away right under your portable countertop. Then, when your guests go home, you roll the cart to an unused corner where it’s out of the way but still looks fabulous. At the end of my organizational rope and in a moment of brilliance (if I do say so myself), I had the idea to repurpose a bar cart into the ultimate bedside skincare station. But instead of top-shelf tequila and fancy wine glasses, it shall hold my serums, creams, masks, and beauty devices. So, I did just that, and let me tell you — it’s a game-changer.
My bar cart does what it does best: It rolls right in when I need a relaxing face massage or an LED treatment. Then, when I want to clear the clutter, I roll the entire cart into my bedroom closet. It has multiple tiers, which allows me to display all my products, devices, and tools neatly. The wheels allow for easy maneuverability, so I can keep my routine as flexible as possible. It’s not only practical, but also makes the whole experience more luxurious.
The top shelf is dedicated to the products I use most frequently and anything that needs to be within arm’s reach for my nightly routine, like serums, lotions, and face towels. I keep face rollers, a face steamer, and a techy mask on the middle shelf for nights when I want a spa-worthy facial. And on the bottom shelf, I keep devices and gadgets that require charging — here’s where things get really brilliant.
I’ve never been great at keeping my devices charged. The chargers either end up cluttering a drawer or stay plugged into an outlet while the device finds its way into a basket or bathroom cabinet. When I go to use any of my devices, they’re often dead without a matching charger in sight. So, while my skincare cart is convenient, it also functions as a charging station. Using a couple of zip ties, I attached a surge protector to the cart and attached all my device chargers. So now, when I need some juice, I park the cart next to an outlet, plug in the single surge protector, and get everything charged in a single shot.
So why not get a regular shelf or cabinet? Well, most traditional storage options can feel bulky, and they’re not designed to be moved around. With its open tiers and mobility, a bar cart provides easy access to everything without sacrificing style. Plus, if you’re someone like me who enjoys a change of scenery occasionally, being able to roll your skincare station out of view always makes my bedroom instantly feel tidier.
Hugo Metal Bar Cart
Pottery Barn
$499
Buy Now
One of the best things about this setup is that it keeps my nightstand clear for the essentials, like my glasses, earbuds, a book, and a candle for those cozy nights. I love the feel of this minimalist bedside table, and the bar cart helps me achieve that without sacrificing access to my skincare must-haves.
The bar cart is an unsung hero in a world where multi-functional furniture is key. What started as a chic way to serve cocktails has turned into the ultimate organizational tool for my beauty routine. It’s not just for drinks anymore — it’s a clever, stylish solution for anyone needing extra storage space for anything from beauty to jewelry, a book collection, or even sexual wellness products.
Buy: Pottery Barn Hugo Metal Bar Cart (29”), $499
Further Reading
We Tested (and Rated!) All the Sofas at Ashley — Here Are the Best to Suit Your Style and Space
Everything You’ve Ever Wanted To Know About Article’s DTC Furniture
