Is your pantry organisation all over the place? You know, a dishevelled mess teeming with unused jars and sauces well past their expiration date? Get organised and give your pantry a new look with these helpful pantry design ideas.
First things first – start with a stocktake of what’s in your pantry and the state of your kitchen cupboard organisers. Edit down and produce that is out of date and make the most of easy-to-access pantry organisation containers, says Temple and Webster stylist and organisational addict, Allira Bell. Here Allira shares her step-by-step guide for how to whip your pantry into shape.
Step 1: Clean and clear
Remove all items from your pantry and wipe down all shelves and surfaces. Before choosing any new pantry organisation containers for your cupboard, ensure you measure the areas and take stock of the foodstuffs you’ll need to store in order to maximise space and enhance cupboard organisation.
Step 2: Sort and organise
Sort through all the removed pantry items and group by category. Give away any items you won’t use and bin any out-of-date ones. Be sure to check ‘use by’ as well as ‘best before’ dates.
Then, organise the pantry in a way that makes sense to you. For example, designate one area for pasta and cereals, one for spreads and sauces, one for cans and jars and one for condiments and spices. Ensure the items you use on a daily basis are easy to see and reach.
Read more: Small kitchen ideas
Step 3: Stylish cupboard organiser ideas
Another way to group items together is by using baskets. This can be an attractive and practical way to organise sauces and condiments, pasta and grain packets, as well as party and picnic supplies. Move open items into clear, glass storage containers wherever possible (especially staples like sugar, pasta and flour – airtight storage will help prevent any nasties like pantry moths). Ensure these are labelled – this makes everyday use so much easier and creates a simple, calm and well-ordered look.
It’s important to note that snacks are easily accessible – especially for children. Keep designated snacks in bowls or baskets so everyone can easily grab something on the way to school or work.
Step 4: Simplicity is key
It’s crucial to keep your pantry cabinet simple. Try not to overcrowd the area to ensure everything is easily found when needed. For example, keep multiples of products in baskets on higher shelves or out of sight until you need them.
Read more: 7 kitchen cabinet materials to choose from
Step 5: Maintenance
After completing a big supermarket shop, empty new products directly into their containers and be sure to include ‘use by’ dates on the label (or even better, cut the nutritional/ingredient information from the packet and include that too!). By rotating all items (including those in storage) you’ll keep everything flowing smoothly throughout the year.
This article was originally published as 5 steps to organise your pantry by www.realestate.com.au and is written by Kristy Barratt.