How to Declutterize your Pantry in 5 Easy Steps
Having an organized pantry isn’t just about aesthetically pleasing bins and matching labels (don't get me wrong, I love making pantries beautiful), It’s about being able to maintain an efficient kitchen. An organized pantry not only makes it easier to find ingredients and small appliances; it also helps reduce food waste and saves time during meal preparation.
Follow these 5 easy steps to transform your cluttered pantry into a well-structured and functional space.
Step 1: Empty and Clean
Start by completely emptying your pantry. Take out all items, making sure to check expiration dates and discard any expired or old food items. As you remove items, give the shelves a thorough wipe down to remove any dust or spills. This blank canvas will give you a fresh start to reorganize your pantry efficiently.
Step 2: Categorize and Sort
Now that your pantry is empty, it's time to categorize and sort your items. Create groups based on categories such as pasta/rice, sauces/condiments, canned goods, baking supplies, snacks, and spices. This step allows you to visualize the quantity and variety of each category, making it easier to plan storage solutions.
Step 3: Choose Storage Solutions
Invest in storage solutions that best suit your pantry's layout and your needs. Utilize clear plastic or glass containers for cereals, grains, and snacks, as they help maintain freshness and allow for easy visibility. Adjustable shelf organizers and stackable bins are excellent for optimizing vertical space and keeping similar items together. Additionally, consider installing a spice rack or magnetic strips to keep spices easily accessible while freeing up shelf space. Amazon has so many affordable options — shop my favorites for some Inspo! Pro Tip- Be sure to measure your space (width, height + length) before buying any product!
Step 4: Label and Arrange
Labeling is a crucial step to ensure that everything goes back to its designated place promptly. Use stickers, adhesive labels, or a label maker to clearly mark each container and shelf. Place frequently used items within easy reach, while less frequently used items can be stored on higher shelves or in the back. Arrange your categories logically and consider the frequency of use and expiration dates when deciding their placement. I LOVE all the labels from The Talented Kitchen!
Step 5: Maintain and Refresh
Congratulations! Your pantry is now beautifully declutterized. To maintain its functionality, make it a habit to regularly check expiration dates and remove any expired or unused items. Set a monthly reminder on your phone, take a few minutes to tidy up and reorganize any items that may have shifted. This simple step will help you sustain the organization you worked hard to achieve.
By following these 5 easy steps, you will not only have a well-organized pantry; you’ll have less stress when preparing/planning meals!
Don’t Forget - Next time you’re making your grocery list - shop your pantry FIRST to determine what you already have! This will help save money and will help you avoid buying duplicates or too much of one item!