How to: "Organize a 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 for a functional, clutter-free pantry:

Step 1: Empty the pantry completely

The first step to organizing a pantry is taking everything out. This allows you to clean the shelves, check expiration dates, and see exactly what you own. Pantry organization always works best when you start with a clean slate.

Step 2: Declutter and edit

Go through each item and decide what to keep, donate, or discard. Remove expired food, duplicates, and products you no longer use. Decluttering is essential for creating a pantry organization system that’s easy to maintain.

Step 3: Create pantry categories

At home and when organizing pantries for clients I always group items by category. Common pantry categories include:

• Breakfast items

• Snacks

• Baking supplies

• Pasta, rice, and grains

• Canned goods

• Oils and condiments

• Spices

• Food stock

Clear categories make it easier to find what you need and put things back in the right place.

Step 4: Use pantry storage containers wisely

You don’t need to transfer everything into containers. Use clear pantry containers and bins where they add value, for loose items, small packets, or deep shelves.

I personally prefer glass containers if it's possible to avoid using plastic. TEMU, IKEA, Zeeman, Action...all these shops offer these types of containers that can be bought at an affordable price:

Step 5: Label everything

As you can see in the picture above, after organizing and categorizing I always add labels. Labels are key to maintaining an organized pantry. Simple, easy-to-read labels help everyone know where items belong and keep the pantry organized long-term. Always add:

1. The name of the item on top of the lid or on the side of the jar

2. The expiring date (if needed) on the bottom of the jar or the lid

Step 6: Organize by frequency of use

Place everyday items at eye level and store less-used items on higher or lower shelves. This method improves accessibility and keeps frequently used food within easy reach.

Step 7: Keep your organization flexible

Your needs will change, and your pantry should change with them. If something isn’t working, adjust it. Relabel, switch containers, or reorganize; over time, you’ll see what works best.

An organized pantry isn’t about perfection, it’s about creating a functional space that supports your daily life.