How to organize your pantry

It doesn't matter if your pantry is big or small, if it is placed in a cabinet or a drawer. Everybody has food at home that needs organizing. A well-organized pantry saves time, reduces food waste, and makes cooking easier. You don’t need expensive containers or a picture-perfect setup; just a system that fits your daily routine. These are some simple steps to create a functional, clutter-free pantry:

Step 1: Take everything out:

This gives you a clean slate, helps you check expiry dates, and lets you see exactly what you have.

Step 2: Clean:

Shelves, drawers, and cabinets get dirty quickly. Once everything is out, take a moment to wipe them down with a damp cloth. Even the fridge and freezer should be cleaned monthly.

Step 3: Declutter:

Go through everything and be honest: keep or toss. Get rid of:

• Expired items

• Things you don’t actually use

This step is what makes everything else easier to maintain.

Place all your food on a surface where you can see everything at once.

Step 4: Create categories:

Group similar items together. This is key. I usually stick to:

• Breakfast

• Snacks

• Baking

• Nuts

• Pasta, rice & grains

• Canned goods

• Oils & condiments

• Spices

• Stock / extras

Clear categories = less searching, easier reset.

Step 5: Use containers:

Food in containers, labeled

You don’t need to decant everything. Use containers for:

• Loose items

• Small packets

• Deep shelves

I personally prefer glass when possible (IKEA, Hema, Action, Amazon all have good options).

Quick tips:

• Don’t decant everything → just everyday dry foods (cereals, rice, pasta, seeds)

• Choose jars that fit the full package (or at least try! Not all packages fit into all containers)

• Always label (name + expiry date + optional: cooking instructions)

• Don’t mix old + new

• Keep backstock in one spot (a drawer, a basket)

Step 6: Label:

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/2ed80b_339998f9d9594959bf16678db20de42a/1080p/mp4/file.mp4

Video of labeled jar

This is what keeps the system working long-term. Keep it simple:

• Name on the lid or jar

• Expiry date (bottom or lid)

• Optional: cooking time (great for pasta/rice)

Step 7: Organize by use:

Put everyday items at eye level.Less-used items go higher or lower.

Easy access = more consistent habits.

Keep it flexible

Your pantry will evolve, and that’s normal.If something isn’t working, adjust it. An organized pantry isn’t about perfection. It’s about creating a system that actually works for your daily life.

Check a quick video of a pantry organization here.