One of my biggest problems used to be the pantry and cabinets in my kitchen. Stuff just seems to get chucked in randomly in the cabinets and I couldn’t figure out the best way to organize it. The pantry always seems to be a hassle as well. Mostly because of the items I barely used that would constantly get in the way.
What I realized was that if I’m not actually using certain items in the kitchen, then they aren’t being put to use, and my cupboard was just acting as a small warehouse. A total waste of space!
Organizing your kitchen cabinets and pantry can transform your cooking experience. With a well-organized kitchen, you can easily find what you need, save time during meal prep, and reduce food waste. Here are some simple, effective tips to help you get your kitchen in tip-top shape.
Here Are a Few Basic Rules I Follow to Keep Things Organized
1) Store items where you use them:
I keep cooking tools near the stove, pantry items in the cabinets close to the stove (since we don’t have a pantry), baking tools near the mixer, and dishes close to the dishwasher to make unloading easier.
2) Place frequently used items within easy reach:
The things you use most should be the easiest to get to. Items that are used less often can be stored further back in the cabinets or in harder-to-reach spots.
3) If you’re not using it, consider getting rid of it:
If something is just taking up space and hardly ever used, it might be time to say goodbye. For example, we have a coffee maker that we only use when certain guests visit. The rest of the time, it stays stored in our closet.
4) Organize for simplicity:
Our cupboard for storage containers used to be a mess until I switched to a uniform set that nests together. I moved these to the kitchen’s only deep drawer, so now they don’t spill out and everything stays tidy.
In general, put the things you use frequently near the front. When I organize, I arrange things where I think it makes sense. Then, I wait for about a week and see how I actually use it. If you keep knocking over the same thing or get annoyed reaching behind something to get your favorite pot, maybe it’s time to change how it’s organized.
What’s the Best Way to Organize Kitchen Cupboards and Pantry?
5) Always Start by Decluttering:
Begin with emptying your cupboards and pantry. Take everything out so you can see all that you have. Get rid of expired items or things you no longer use.
6) Categorize Your Items:
Group items together by type. Keep all your spices in one area, baking ingredients in another, and so on. This will make it easier to find what you need quickly.
7) Use Clear Storage Containers:
Transfer items like pasta, rice, and cereals into clear, airtight containers. Not only do they keep your food fresh, but they also let you see exactly what you have at a glance.
Sidenote: When using plastic containers, remember that not all are made for long-term use or repeated use. Some plastics can wear out, especially if you heat them or wash them a lot. Always check the type of plastic of your containers to see if they’re okay to use again and again. While many takeout containers can be washed and reused, others might not be safe because they can release chemicals as they break down. Also, some plastic containers can get tiny cracks or scratches that you can’t see. These small damages can trap bacteria, making it hard to clean the containers completely.
How to Maximize Kitchen Cabinet Space?
8) Install Shelf Organizers
Use shelf organizers to double the usable space in your cabinets. These can be stacked or expanded, providing more levels and making it easier to access everything.
9) Hang Items Under Shelves
Install hooks under cabinets or shelves to hang mugs, utensils, or pots and pans. This frees up space inside the cabinets for other items.
10) Use Bins and Baskets
Deep shelves can make items hard to reach and see. Use bins or baskets to pull out sections of items easily. Label them so you know exactly what’s in each one.
Organizing a Pantry
For the pantry, bins are your friend. Choose bins that fit well on your shelves and use them to group similar items together. This will make it easier to find what you need and keep your pantry organized.
As for the cupboard where you store plastic containers, it tends to get messy quickly. To manage this, plan to reorganize and declutter it either monthly or every other month. Regular upkeep is a must to keep everything in check.
11) Label Everything
Labeling your pantry shelves can make a big difference, especially when you have a busy household. In my kitchen, every type of food has its own label: cereal, canned tomatoes, beans, box mixes, drinks, dry beans, and pasta. This way, everyone knows where things go, making it easier for everyone in the house to put things away.
12) Adjust Shelf Heights
Make sure the heights of your pantry shelves are adjusted to fit the items you store. If your shelves are adjustable, move them so they fit the heights of your items. This way, you can avoid wasting space above shorter items and keep everything visible.
13) Keep a Running Inventory
Maintain a list of pantry contents, adding items as you buy them and crossing them out as you use them. This helps prevent overbuying and ensures you know what you have on hand.
How to Organize a Pantry With Deep Shelves
14) Use the Doors
Attach racks or holders to the insides of cabinet doors to store smaller items like spices, bags, wraps, or cleaning supplies.
15) Install Pull-out Shelves
Consider installing sliding shelves or drawers. These can make it easier to access items at the back of the pantry without having to dig through everything.
16) Store Like with Like
Keep similar items together and place frequently used items at the front. Store bulk or seldom-used items at the back.
More Kitchen Organization Hacks
17) Store Lids Separately
Use a magazine rack or a custom lid holder to organize pot and pan lids. This can be mounted inside a door or on a wall.
18) Create a Kid-Friendly Zone
If you have children, create a lower cabinet or shelf that’s easily accessible to them. Stock it with kid-friendly utensils, snacks, and other items they use regularly.
Use Lazy Susans to Organize Kitchen Cabinets and Pantry
These rotating trays can be great for corner cabinets or for storing condiments, allowing easy access to various items without having to move everything around.
For plastic storage, you can use a set of Rubbermaid containers that all fit into one drawer. The key is to find the smallest possible space to store these containers to prevent them from taking over more space than necessary. I keep a few disposable containers for convenience and get rid of the rest. This system helps prevent clutter and keeps everything manageable.
At the end of the day, your kitchen setup needs to work for you and your family. And whatever systems you implement, make sure to actually use them, or it just makes things more confusing.
By implementing these simple hacks, your kitchen can become a model of efficiency and ease. Organizing your space allows you to enjoy cooking and meal prep more, leading to a happier, healthier home life.
