9 STEPS TO AN ORGANIZED PANTRY
Even if you keep a spotless kitchen, chances are your pantry could use a little TLC. In my house, a messy pantry often leads to wasted food. Without realizing it, food expires and ends up in the trash instead of on the dinner table.
Organizing can seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually simple once you start the process. Here are some helpful tips on how to tidy up your pantry and keep it that way.
1. Clear out the pantry
Start by taking everything out while checking for any outdated items. Have one pile for items to keep and another pile for things to throw away. You can keep products that are just nearing their expiration or consume-by date for immediate use.
Chaya suggests: the next time you shop at Pantry Paratus, be sure to put the FREE downloadable Annual Pantry Checklist in your cart–a very handy tool!
2. Clean the shelves
Once you’ve cleared out the pantry, it’s time for some good ol’ elbow grease. Use a handheld vacuum to get rid of dust and dirt, and then wipe down the shelves with a damp rag. If you have a walk-in pantry, don’t forget to sweep off cobwebs that may have accumulated in corners or the ceiling.
3. Organize by zones
This is the most efficient way to organize a kitchen pantry, instead of arranging the contents by size. Designate separate areas for food and cooking, with often-used items within easy reach. If you bake a lot, for instance, group baking supplies such as flour, eggs, and sprinkles together. Place breakfast food like cereal, bread, and oatmeal in another corner.
*Chaya suggests: new to the idea of zones? Learn more in this concept in this blog post.
4. Use clear containers
Clear containers let you quickly find what you need and see when supplies are running low. They also eliminate the mess of packaging and boxes. Use baskets or bins for larger items or to save space when they’re stacked together according to category.
5. Use a lazy Susan and shelf risers
Sometimes, you need something and it’s all the way at the back of the shelf. A lazy Susan makes it easier since all you need to do is spin it to retrieve what you need instead of moving things around. Shelf risers, on the other hand, will double your pantry space.
6. Utilize cabinet doors
Make every inch count by hanging over- the-door organizers. You can also mount racks to hold spices, canned goods, and oils.
7. Labels, labels, labels
This helps everyone locate and put items back into their designated places. You can use a label maker or chalkboard labels for any quick changes. Erasable labels are also great for adding opened-by and expiration dates. A cheaper alternative is masking tape and permanent markers.
Check out our Modern Harvest Shrink Wrap Labels–easy to put on and to take off of jars, and they come in 4 super-cute designs. We love these for our pantry, but for craft & office organization, too.
8. Make an inventory
Make a list of everything you have, including expiration and use-by dates. This will help you keep track of your supplies and figure out which ones to use first. Build a template on your computer, print it out, and then hang it on a clipboard by the door. Check your inventory before grocery shopping to see if you need to replenish any stocks.
9. First in, First Out
Implement this rule to avoid food waste. Place newly bought items at the back and the oldest ones in front. This way, you’re less likely to let food go bad.
Writing the expiration dates on cans will also
help you grab next-in-line when cooking.
Check your cupboards at least once a month and stick with this routine. Organizing your kitchen pantry can be fun and stress-free, especially when you get to save more time and money for you and your family.
Jennifer Lutz is a regular contributor for Pantry Paratus and the home décor expert at www.christmastreemarket.com. In addition to being an expert on home organization, Jennifer is also quite savvy when it comes to décor. Before the season’s over, check out her post on sprucing up your home for summer: http://blog.christmastreemarket.com/2014/06/5-tips-for-a-summer-friendly-home/.
More articles about the Pantry:
How To Maximize Your Counter Space
Navigating a Food Allergy: The Safe Pantry
An Appealing Pantry: Stocking the Pantry with Foods They’ll Actually Eat
The Humble Pantry (and why we love it)
Kitchen Pantry: Signs of Food Spoilage in Food Storage
Meal Ideas: The Top 5 Foods To Stock in Your Pantry
*Before checking out, be sure to put the Free Downloadable Annual Pantry Checklist in your cart to help you rotate your stock!