{"id":690,"date":"2014-07-23T08:34:04","date_gmt":"2014-07-23T08:34:04","guid":{"rendered":""},"modified":"2014-09-24T04:00:18","modified_gmt":"2014-09-24T04:00:18","slug":"9-steps-to-an-organized-pantry","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pantryparatus.com\/articles\/9-steps-to-an-organized-pantry\/","title":{"rendered":"9 Steps to an Organized Pantry"},"content":{"rendered":"
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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.<\/span><\/p>\n 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.<\/span><\/p>\n 1. Clear out the pantry<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Start by taking everything out while checking for any outdated items.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. <\/span><\/p>\n Chaya suggests: the next time you shop at Pantry Paratus, be sure to put the FREE<\/strong> downloadable Annual Pantry Checklist<\/span><\/a> in your cart–a very handy tool! <\/span><\/em> 2. Clean the shelves<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n 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.<\/span><\/p>\n 3. Organize by zones<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n 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.<\/span><\/p>\n 4. Use clear containers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n 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.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/span><\/p>\n photo by hilarycl<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n 5. Use a lazy Susan and shelf risers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n 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.<\/span><\/p>\n 6. Utilize cabinet doors<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Make every inch count by hanging over- the-door organizers. You can also mount racks to hold spices, canned goods, and oils.<\/span><\/p>\n 7. Labels, labels, labels<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n 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.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/span><\/a><\/p>\n
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*Chaya suggests: new to the idea of zones? Learn more in this concept in this blog post.<\/span><\/a><\/span><\/em>
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