Pantry Organisation Tips: Creating a Tidy and Efficient Kitchen Space

Hollie WattsxMon Jul 24 2023

Have you ever found yourself rummaging through your pantry in search of that one ingredient you need, only to discover it buried under a heap of disorganised items? A messy pantry not only adds unnecessary stress to your daily cooking routine but can also lead to food wastage and overspending. The solution? A well-organised pantry! In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best pantry organisation tips and ideas that will transform your cluttered pantry into a tidy and efficient kitchen space.

Why is Pantry Organisation Important?

A well-organised pantry is not just about aesthetics; it offers numerous practical benefits that can significantly impact your daily life. Here are some reasons why pantry organisation should be a top priority:

Time-Saving: Imagine having all your ingredients neatly arranged and easily accessible. You'll no longer waste time searching for items, making meal preparation a breeze.

Reduced Food Waste: With proper organisation, you'll be able to see what you have and what you need to restock. This helps prevent expired food items and reduces unnecessary food waste.

Cost-Effective: When you know exactly what's in your pantry, you can make more accurate grocery lists, avoiding unnecessary purchases and saving money in the long run.

Stress Reduction: A clutter-free pantry creates a sense of order and calm in the kitchen, making cooking and meal planning a more enjoyable experience.

Now that we understand the importance of pantry organisation, let's delve into the best ways to achieve a well-organised pantry from scratch.

clear cylinder containers organised on shelf

How to Start Organising a Pantry from Scratch

Organising a messy pantry may seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Follow these steps to get started:

Empty and Declutter: Begin by emptying your entire pantry and sorting the items into categories. Discard any expired or unused products, and consider donating non-perishable items in good condition to local food banks.
Assess Your Space: Take a good look at your pantry's layout and shelving. Determine whether you need additional storage solutions, such as racks, bins, or containers, to optimise the space.
Invest in Storage Containers: High-quality storage containers are essential for maintaining pantry organisation. Consider investing in a versatile set like the ClickClack Pantry Cube 10 Piece Storage Container Set, which comes in various sizes and keeps your dry goods fresh and easily identifiable.
Group Similar Items Together: Arrange your pantry items into categories like grains, pasta, canned goods, baking supplies, snacks, etc. This grouping will make it easier to find what you need when cooking or making grocery lists.
Consider Accessibility: Place frequently used items at eye level or in easily accessible areas. Reserve higher and lower shelves for less frequently used items.

Practical Pantry Organisation Ideas

When it comes to pantry organisation, having the right storage solutions can make all the difference. Laine Home offers a wide range of Kitchen Storage options that cater to different pantry sizes and requirements. Here are some smart storage solutions to consider:

Stackable Bins and Baskets: Utilise stackable bins and baskets to group similar items together and create designated zones within your pantry. These containers are perfect for organising snacks, fruits, and smaller items.
Shelving and Racks: Maximise vertical space with additional shelving and racks. Adjustable shelves allow you to customise the space to accommodate tall items like cereal boxes and bottles.
Lazy Susans: A Lazy Susan, such as the Joseph Joseph CupboardStore Rotating Organiser, is a game-changer for deep pantry shelves. It allows you to access items at the back without having to move everything in front.
Food Storage Containers: High-quality food storage containers, like the ClickClack Pantry Cube 10 Piece Storage Container Set, keep your dry goods fresh and prevent pantry pests from infiltrating your ingredients.
Clear Canisters: Opt for clear canisters, such as the Pyrex Canister Square 4 Piece Set, which allow you to see the contents at a glance, making it easier to identify what you need.
Use Labels: Label each storage container to identify its contents. This simple step helps everyone in the household find what they need and maintain the organisation over time.
Bread Bin: Keep your loaves of bread fresh and free from pests with a stylish and functional bread bin like the Brabantia Roll Top Large Bread Bin.

How Does Marie Kondo Organise a Pantry?

Marie Kondo, renowned for her minimalist and decluttering approach, brings her unique organisation method to pantries. Here are some principles she applies to pantry organisation:

Declutter First: Like with any other space, Marie Kondo advises decluttering your pantry by taking out all the items and keeping only those that spark joy or are essential.

Use Clear Containers: Marie Kondo prefers clear storage containers because they allow you to see what you have without the need to open every container.

Arrange by Frequency of Use: Marie Kondo suggests organising items based on how often you use them. Place frequently used items within easy reach and less-used items on higher or lower shelves.

Keep It Simple: Embrace simplicity in your pantry organisation. Avoid overcomplicating storage solutions, and use what works best for your needs.

How to Choose a Pantry Storage Container

Selecting the right pantry storage container is essential for maintaining a well-organised and efficient kitchen space. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing the perfect storage solution for your pantry:

Material: Opt for high-quality materials like BPA-free plastic, glass, or stainless steel. Each material offers distinct benefits. Plastic containers are lightweight and shatterproof, while glass containers are durable and allow you to see the contents easily.
Size and Shape: Assess the size and shape of your pantry shelves. Choose containers that fit well and utilise the available space efficiently. Consider stackable options to make the most of vertical space.
Airtight Seal: Look for containers with airtight seals to keep your pantry items fresh and prevent pests from infiltrating. A tight seal also helps retain the flavours and textures of dry goods.
Transparent Design: Opt for transparent or clear containers, as they allow you to identify the contents at a glance, eliminating the need to open each container to find what you need.
Easy to Clean: Consider containers that are easy to clean and maintain. Dishwasher-safe options can save you time and effort.

By carefully considering these factors, you can find the perfect pantry storage container that not only keeps your food items fresh and organised but also complements your kitchen's style and functionality.

How Do I Maximise My Pantry Space?

Maximising pantry space is crucial for efficient organisation. Here are some tips to make the most of your available space:

Use Door or Wall Space: Install hooks or hanging organisers on the pantry door to store spices, herbs, or small items. The Furi Pro 36cm Magnetic Wall Rack is a handy, space-efficient way to store your knives in the confinement of your pantry.
Utilise Risers and Dividers: Add shelf risers and dividers to make use of vertical space and keep different items separated.
Invest in Adjustable Shelves: Adjustable shelves allow you to customise the space according to the height of your pantry items, making them more versatile.
Store Bulk Items Smartly: Transfer bulk items like grains and cereals into airtight containers to save space and maintain freshness.
Consider Under-shelf Baskets: Under-shelf baskets are great for storing smaller items like tea bags and snacks without wasting valuable shelf space. The Joseph Joseph CupboardStore Under-Shelf Spice Rack or Joseph Joseph CupboardStore Film, Foil & Bag Organiser are both ideal options for efficient use of using undershelf spaces.

Maintaining an Organised Pantry in the Long Term

Organising your pantry is a rewarding endeavour, but the key to its success lies in maintaining the organisation over time. Follow these tips to ensure your pantry remains tidy and efficient:

Regularly Check for Expiry Dates: Periodically check the expiration dates of pantry items and remove any expired products promptly. This practice prevents the buildup of expired items and helps you stay aware of what needs to be restocked.

Implement the "First In, First Out" Rule: When adding new groceries to your pantry, follow the "First In, First Out" (FIFO) rule. Place the newer items at the back and bring older items to the front. This way, you'll always use the oldest items first, reducing the risk of food waste.

Resist Impulse Buying: Avoid purchasing items you don't need or rarely use, as they can quickly clutter your pantry. Stick to a well-thought-out grocery list to maintain pantry organisation.

Organise with Your Household in Mind: If you share your home with others, communicate the organisation system to them. Encourage everyone to follow the system and return items to their designated spots after use.

Schedule Regular Cleaning and Reorganisation: Plan regular pantry cleaning and reorganisation sessions to keep the space in top condition. These sessions can also help you assess whether any adjustments are needed in your organisation's approach.

Creative Pantry Organisation Ideas

Looking for some creative and unique pantry organisation ideas? Try these out-of-the-box solutions to optimise your pantry:

Chalkboard or Whiteboard Pantry Doors: Turn your pantry doors into handy writing surfaces. Use a chalkboard or whiteboard paint to create a space for jotting down shopping lists, meal plans, or notes about pantry contents.
Add LED Lighting: Illuminate your pantry with LED strip lights or battery-operated touch lights. Proper lighting makes it easier to see and access items, especially on deep shelves or corners.
Use Magazine Holders for Cans: Repurpose magazine holders to store canned goods on their sides, allowing easy visibility and accessibility.

Final Thoughts on Pantry Organisation

A well-organised pantry is a game-changer for any kitchen, making cooking and meal planning a joyous experience. By implementing these pantry organisation tips and ideas, you can create an efficient space that reduces food waste, saves time, and adds a touch of harmony to your daily life.

Remember, the key is to maintain the organisation regularly and adapt the system to suit your needs as your pantry contents change. Shop our wide range of Kitchen Storage products at Laine Home and begin your pantry organisation journey today!