The Joy of an Organized Pantry

Does an organized pantry bring you joy? Every time I open the door to my food haven, I am smitten! I do not know what I love more, the fact that it looks so pretty or the fact that everyone (we are a party of 6) can find what they are looking for. Even if it is the 20^th snack of the day!

This renovation started about two years ago when I was looking for a clean and neat space for all my favorite goodies. This required a good amount of time, searching throughout Pinterest for the slightest bit of inspiration. Between the @thehomeedit Instagram page and countless pins to my boards, I was ready to start organizing. One of the most difficult parts was deciding on the details, which by the way, who knew that baskets, containers and bins were tough to pick from? Not me!

Please tell me I am not alone!

I settled for the OXO Pop airtight containers and Ikea bins.

Some of the tasks at hand can be very daunting but the outcome is extremely rewarding. I promise it is totally do-able. If you are thinking of organizing your pantry, please do not be frightened! It will be what you make it! Essentially, what makes you happy will be perfection.

And so, we begin!

First, I am glad you have decided to beautify your pantry. All pantries are not created equal and you must find what works best for YOU.

Here are the “blueprints” to use as you embark on this journey:

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1. Measure your pantry and select a system that fits your needs and space. By doing so, you will know the sizes of the items that will fit in your space.
   • Feel free to use baskets, canisters, jars, bins or containers
   • Choose whatever brings you joy (and fits in your pantry).
2. Remove everything (I MEAN EVERYTHING) from your pantry. Yes, you will find a war zone in your kitchen but don’t panic!
   • Check all cans and boxes and throw away expired food. (Yes, we all have those)
   • Sort the items into groups, such as Breakfast, Dinner and Snacks.
3. Go through each group and decide how you want to categorize and store your items.
   • I used the OXO containers to store the following: Rice, Flour, Sugar, Pancake Mix, Oats, and Cereals.
     • Tip:  Cut out the back of the labels from the boxes and tape them to the back of container. That way you know when that batch will expire. 😊
   • Lazy Susan- They are a game-changer! I use these for my spreads, condiments, and sauces.
   • Use risers or racks for your cans
   • Bins, canisters or baskets- Categorize them with items that makes sense for you.
   • I arranged my bins for my baking, soups and nuts, chips, coffee, crackers and paper goods.
4. Arrange the groupings systematically to fit your space in a matter that works for your household.
   • Tip: I suggest you keep the heavier items on the lower shelves to avoid lifting those items over your head.
5. Labels! Yes, label everything so that it can be easily found.  
   • You may purchase labels anywhere.
   • You can make your own- I used my BFF, my Cricut!)  I made the labels using vinyl.

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Ta-da! It does not sound too difficult, right? Trust me, if you follow your gut and this guide, you will do simply fine! I promise, every time you open the door, you will feel the greatest joy for having an organized pantry.

Now let’s keep it real. You are probably wondering “Would it stay this way at all time?” Well, that is up to you and your household. It requires commitment to keep the beauty and functionality you just created.

Got questions? Need help? Feel free to connect with me on Instagram or simply shoot me an email. 😊