As a busy mom, your pantry can easily become disorganized and cluttered. However, with some planning and simple strategies, you can turn your pantry into a well-organized space that saves you time, money, and stress. In this article, we will discuss how to organize a pantry, ideas for organizing a small pantry, how to organize a pantry with deep shelves and general pantry organization tips.
Organizing A Small Pantry
How to Organize a Pantry
1. Take Inventory:
The first step in organizing your pantry is to take inventory. This will give you an idea of what you have and what you need. Be sure to check expiration dates and discard anything no longer usable.
2. Categorize:
Group like items together. For example, put all of your canned goods in one area, your pasta in another, and your snacks in another. This will make it easier to find what you need when you need it and also make it easier to keep track of what you have.
3. Containerize:
Put your items into containers, such as clear plastic bins, baskets, or jars. This will not only make it easier to see what you have but also keep items fresh and prevent spills.
4. Label:
Label your containers so you know exactly what is inside. This will save you time and help keep everything organized.
- The containers in this photo came with labels and chalk markers. Grab your here if you want.
- But you could also use whatever cute bins or buckets you find and use this simple label maker to create your own labels!
5. Utilize Vertical Space:
Use the vertical space in your pantry to store items. Hang shelves or baskets to store snacks, spices, or baking supplies. This doesn’t mean stacking everything- though it could.
Using simple solutions like lazy susans (my fav hack), or can organizers in creative ways can create space for many other pantry products.
Pantry Organization for pantries with Deep Shelves
If you have a pantry with deep shelves, it can be difficult to see and access items in the back. Here are some tips for organizing a pantry with deep shelves:
6. Use Pull-Out Bins:
Use pull-out bins to store items that are deep in the pantry. This will make it easier to access these items without having to move everything in front of them.
7. Utilize the Back of the Door:
Use the back of the door to store items such as spices or condiments. Hang a spice rack or over-the-door organizer to keep everything easily accessible.
8. Install Adjustable Shelving:
Install adjustable shelving to customize the height of your shelves. This will make it easier to store items of different sizes and ensure that no space is wasted.
How to Organize a Small Pantry
If you have a small pantry, it’s important to maximize your space. Here are some tips for organizing a small pantry:
9. Install Shelves:
Install additional shelves to maximize vertical space. This will give you more storage space without taking up any additional floor space.
10. Use Clear Containers:
Use clear containers to store items such as cereal or pasta. This will make it easier to see what you have and prevent items from getting lost in the back of the pantry. Any clear containers with a top will work.
12. Pantry Organization: Aesthetic Decor
Add intentional design elements to a corner or shelf. A little decoration goes a long way- From a specific color scheme, picture frame, or simple decorative jars to a full-on station, curated sections make a beautiful statement. The carefully curated pieces bring the space together and add an awe factor.
Organize a Small Pantry without Buying Anything
If you don’t want to spend any money on organizing your pantry, there are still ways to get it organized. Here are some tips for organizing a small pantry without buying anything:
12. Use Shoeboxes:
Use shoeboxes to store items such as snacks or baking supplies. This will help keep everything contained and organized.
13. Use Magazine Holders:
Use magazine holders to store items such as canned goods or jars. This will keep everything easily accessible and prevent items from rolling around on the shelves.
14. Use Tension Rods:
Use tension rods to create additional storage space in your pantry. Simply install the tension rods vertically between shelves and use them to hang items such as dish towels or pot holders.
How Does Martha Stewart Organize a Pantry?
Martha Stewart is known for her organizational skills; her pantry is no exception. Similar to the tips above, here is Martha Stewart’s tips on how to organize a pantry:
- Use Clear Containers:
Martha Stewart recommends also using clear containers to store dry goods such as pasta, rice, or cereal. This will make it easier to see what you have and when you need to restock.
- Group Like Items Together:
Martha Stewart also recommends grouping like items together to keep everything organized. For example, put all of your baking supplies in one area and all of your snacks in another.
- Install Pull-Out Bins:
Martha Stewart suggests using pull-out bins to store items deep in the pantry. However, I’m more of a pull-out shelf kinda girl, and these pull-out racks are fantastic. This will make it easier to access these items without having to move everything in front of them.
How Does Marie Kondo Organize a Pantry?
Marie Kondo is known for her minimalist approach to organization, and her pantry organization method is no exception. Here are some tips from Marie Kondo on how to organize a pantry:
- Use the KonMari Method:
Marie Kondo’s KonMari Method involves organizing items by category and only keeping items that “spark joy.” Apply this method to your pantry by grouping like items together and discarding anything expired or no longer needed.
- Use Clear Containers: (These are my favs and the ones from my personal pantry. The ones in the front are an Amazon Purchase, and the ones in the back are THE Home Edit Walmart Collection.
but, here’s an Amazon dupe if you can’t find those in stock.
Marie Kondo also recommends using clear containers to store items. This will make it easier to see what you have and help you maintain a clutter-free space.
- Store Items Vertically: stack
Marie Kondo suggests storing items vertically to maximize space and make it easier to see what you have. Use shelf dividers or tension rods to create vertical storage space in your pantry.
Best Shelving for Pantry Organization
When it comes to shelving for your pantry, there are a few options to consider. Here are some of the best types of shelving for a pantry:
Wire shelving is a popular choice for pantries because it is affordable, easy to install, and allows for good air circulation.
- Wood Shelving:
Wood shelving is a more decorative option that can add warmth to your pantry. It is also durable and can be customized to fit your space.
- Custom Shelving:
If you have a unique space or specific storage needs, custom shelving may be the best option for your pantry. This allows you to create a personalized storage solution that meets your needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, organizing a pantry can be daunting, but with some simple strategies and a little planning, it can become a well-organized space that saves you time, money, and stress. Whether you have a small pantry, deep shelves, or just need some inspiration, these tips and ideas will help you get your pantry organized and under control.
For more Home organizing tips:
- Tame your kid’s shoe pile
- Easy Water Bottle Storage Solutions