Easily find everything you need and avoid food waste by keeping your pantry tidy.
If this sounds familiar, take comfort in knowing that yourpantry spacecan become functional, no matter its size.
Joyelle West
1.
Credit:Joyelle West
Establish a Zoning System
Whenarranging a pantry, think about which items to store and where.
This is even more important when deciding how to organize deep pantry shelves.
Dedicate each shelf or section to a specificpantry zone, such as baking supplies or breakfast ingredients.
Credit: JANET MESIC-MACKIE
The most-used zones should be toward the front and at eye level of whoever is reaching for them.
Line multiples of the same items in a row, with the oldest expiration date in the front.
Use Clear, Deep Containers
Clear binskeep your items orderly and allow you to see everything inside.
Credit:Marty Baldwin
Both methods requireaccurate measurements, some handiwork (or hiring a helper), and a small investment.
Considering the time and money saved in the long run, this project can be well worth it.
Drawers slide forward so you’ve got the option to see and reach everything inside simultaneously.
Line Items in Height Order
Whether you have drawers or shelves, alwaysorganize pantry itemsby height.
That way, it’s possible for you to see everything on the shelf at once.
For deep pantry shelves, look for one with a large diameter.
Take Advantage of Pantry Doors
Pantry doors are often overlooked storage spaces.
Marty Baldwin
7.
Label Everything
Everything from containers to food storage jars (and even the shelves)should be labeled.
Stick to general labels or broad categories so you don’t have to change them often.
Or, use dry-erase labels so you might be more specific.
Instead, consider usingexcess pantry spacetostore small appliancesor bulk items, like paper towels.
Commit to go through them regularly, withweekly declutteringas the goal.
If youve implemented a few of these ideas already, this process should be quick and effortless.
