Step 1. Design and Shop
Decide what look you want to create. Measure your shelves and purchase products you LOVE that also fit the space. The more packaging you have the more cluttered and less efficient your space. Buy bigger baskets for bulk items, canisters for things you want to decant and turntables. It’s easier to do one return than to run back to the store 5 times, so buy more than you think you need.
Step 2. Take everything out, and I mean everything!
Throw out anything expired, make piles of like items (use post-its to identify categories). Once you have a clean slate, clean your shelves and visualize your new space.
Step 3. Empty packaged items into your new bins and containers. Keep groupings of like things together.
Step 4. Put everything back in, keeping your categories or “zones” together. Do you have a way to keep spreads and bread close to your toaster? Can you keep your protein powders by your blender? What do you use the most? Make sure it gets the prime real estate and put less used items up high or down low.
Tip 5. Most Important step, Label! This will help everyone keep things where they belong.
Following these steps will set your swoon-worthy, functional pantry transformation up for success! Ultimately, making life easier and beautiful!
Canisters
Using canisters is the easiest way to upgrade your pantry. Not only are canisters with decanted items beautiful, but they also save space, keep food fresh longer, and are easy to see when you are running low. You can find both glass and plastic airtight canisters to match the look of any pantry. Pro-tip: Only decant items you are replenishing once you run out.
Woven Baskets
Baskets are the easiest way to add texture, corral like items, create order, and hide clutter. Choose one or two styles that are durable and create the look you are going for. Label baskets with a label that is more general for the zone and makes sense for your family. Dinner, breakfast, drinks, baking, snacks, chips, and pasta are common labels used for baskets.
Turntables
Turntables are great in pantry corners and storing items that come in bottles or jars. We use turntables for spreads, condiments, sauces, oils, etc. Turntables are easy to clean which makes them a great option for messier food items. Often we’ll create a breakfast zone with decanted cereal, a breakfast bin with oatmeal and pancake mixes, a turntable in the corner with spreads and syrup.
Metal Baskets
Metal baskets are a great addition to any pantry. We like to keep consistent looking items in these baskets to avoid clutter, for example baking mixes, snack size chip bags, macaroni and cheese, and applesauce pouches. Metal baskets are also great for storing bread and any produce so the items can breathe. We always design with 2-3 baskets group together to create consistency.
Pantries can be both beautiful AND functional. Pantries come in all shapes and sizes, but following this simple method used by professional organizers, any pantry can take your food storage from meh to amazing in a few thoughtful hours.