Pantry Organization Buying Guide

Having an organized pantry not only makes it easier to find what you need, but it can also save you time and money. No more buying duplicates of things you didn’t know you still had or throwing away expired food. With the right organization tools and a little planning, you can turn your pantry into a well-oiled machine. Here is a buying guide to help you get started.

1. Containers and Bins

One of the biggest culprits of pantry disorganization is loose items floating around on the shelves. It’s easy to forget what we have and even harder to find what we need in a sea of bags and boxes. That’s where containers and bins come in; they help corral items and make everything easier to see and access.

When selecting containers and bins for your pantry, consider these questions:

• What is the size of my pantry?
• What types of food do I store?
• Do I prefer clear or opaque containers?
• Do I need stackable containers?

Clear containers are ideal for seeing the contents at a glance, while opaque containers may be better for items that are sensitive to light, like nuts or spices. Stackable containers can save space, but they may not work well for taller items like cereal boxes. Be sure to measure your pantry shelves before buying containers and bins to ensure they will fit properly.

2. Lazy Susans

For deep shelves or corners that are difficult to access, lazy susans can be a game changer. These rotating trays are perfect for storing smaller items like spices, sauces, and oils. Instead of having to reach to the back of a shelf or move items around to find what you need, a quick spin of the tray can bring everything to you.

When selecting a lazy susan, consider these questions:

• What is the size of the shelf or corner I want to use it in?
• How much weight will it need to hold?
• Do I want a non-slip surface?

Non-slip surfaces are helpful to prevent items from sliding around when the tray is spun. Consider a turntable with a rim or edge to keep smaller items from falling off.

3. Shelf Dividers

Shelf dividers are a great tool for keeping items from toppling over or mingling with each other. They can also help maximize shelf space by allowing you to stack items vertically. These dividers can be especially helpful for items like cutting boards or baking sheets, which can be awkward to store horizontally.

When selecting shelf dividers, consider these questions:

• What is the height and width of my shelves?
• How thick are the items I want to separate?
• Do I prefer adjustable or fixed dividers?

Adjustable dividers are great for accommodating items of different sizes, but fixed dividers can be sturdier and more secure. Measure your shelves and items before purchasing dividers to ensure they will fit properly.

4. Labels

Labels can be a helpful addition to any pantry organization system. They can help you quickly identify what’s in each container or bin without having to lift the lid or open the package. Labels can also be helpful for keeping track of expiration dates, making it easier to rotate older items to the front.

When selecting labels, consider these questions:

• What type of label do I prefer?
• Do I want permanent or removable labels?
• Do I want to handwrite or print my labels?

There are a variety of label options, including chalkboard labels, adhesive labels, and label maker labels. Permanent labels may be better for long-term storage, while removable labels can be helpful for items that are frequently used or rotated. Consider your preference and budget when selecting label options.

5. Over-the-Door Organizer

If you’re short on shelf or floor space, an over-the-door organizer may be just what you need. These organizers can hang over the inside of a pantry door and provide additional storage for items like snacks, spices, or cleaning supplies.

When selecting an over-the-door organizer, consider these questions:

• What is the size of my pantry door?
• How much weight will it need to hold?
• Do I want clear or opaque pockets?

A smaller pantry door may require a smaller organizer, while heavier items may require a stronger organizer with reinforced pockets or hooks. Clear pockets can be helpful for seeing the contents at a glance, while opaque pockets can provide a more streamlined look.

Conclusion

An organized pantry can make meal prep and grocery shopping easier and more enjoyable. With the right tools, you can turn your pantry into a well-oiled machine. Consider your pantry size, food preferences, and budget when selecting containers, lazy susans, shelf dividers, labels, and over-the-door organizers. Happy organizing!