Whether you’re dreaming of a picture perfect pantry or you’re just tired of not being able to find what you need, as professional organizers we here to share some secrets to a well organized pantry!
Why organize your pantry
Organizing your pantry will decrease waste! Having a well organized pantry prevents over buying because you will know what you have. No more buying duplicates! It was also help limit your food waste. When you can find what your looking for when you need it, food is less likely to expire before it is used. It will also help you save time. No more wasting time searching for something when you need it!
Sort & purge
Like any area of your home, the first steps to an organized pantry are sorting and purging. Pull everything out of your pantry, tossing any expired items as you go. Use your table or counters to sort your pantry items into categories. Some frequently used categories are:
SNACKS
BAKING
BREAKFAST
BEVERAGES
PASTA & RICE
OILS & CONDIMENTS
PAPER GOODS
SPICES
Planning
Now that you have an idea of what your categories are and how much space is needed for each, you can being planning your pantry layout. You want to zone your pantry in a logical way. Think about how often items are accessed, but also think about WHO accesses them. Consider what snack you want kids to be able to grab themselves and what you may want a bit higher on the shelves.
Think about things like functionality and ease of use. Plan for your family’s needs. A stay at home parent who loves to bake has different pantry needs than a family where both parents work full time. Parents with 3 kids under 6 will need to plan very diffferntly than empty nesters.
Utilize your space
When you’re planning, consider any forgotten spaces. Use an Elfa over the door organizer to maximize this overlooked space. You may also want to use vertical space by wall mounting items. When possible, clear the floor, but, if you must use floor space, contain any items on the floor into bins to create proper homes.
choose your organizing supplies
Many of our clients go into a pantry organizing project saying they want all clear bins- in fact, many articles offering pantry organanizg tips also recommend going all in on clear bins. Clear has the advantage of allowing you to see what is inside. However, after years of organizing panties, we can tell you, clear bins INCREASE visual clutter. Our professional opinion- pair a clear option with a solid. This will give you the benefit of being able to see some items while hiding messier items like chip bags.
Create a uniform look
I know, I just told you to mix clear and solid bins, but once you’ve selected once clear option and one solid option, stick to your choices. Don’t be tempted later when you spot a bin that’s new and cute or on sale.. Keep your look consistent and put like bins next to like bins.
to decant or not to decant
Of all the steps involved in organizing your pantry, here is where you need to be most honest with yourself. Cansiters look amazing! But, are you going to take the time to decant your items into them? If you are up for this task- fantastic! However, if you know your lifestyle will never allow you the time to refill cannisters after a shopping trip, don’t set your beautiful new pantry up for failure! Skip the decanted flour and sugar and opt instead of a basket labeled “baking supplies”.
label
Label every bin and basket. You can use broad labels like “Kids’ Snacks” or specifics like “Granola Bars”. Find what works for you, but labeling is a must! This will help ensure everyone in your household can unpack groceries and find what they need.
maintain
Take inventory and “shop” your pantry before heading to the store so you don’t stock up on items you already have. The New York Times Wirecutter experts recommend tiding your pantry frequently as you unpack new groceries.
Hi, I’m Meghan,
Professional organizer, mom, former educator, wife, and auntie. I am dedicated to minimalism, greener living, and community service.
I believe organization can relieve stress and help all aspects of your life function more smoothly. I hope the information here can help you create a more peaceful home and lifestyle!
