When it comes to designing an organized and efficient pantry, professional organizers have some valuable tips and tricks up their sleeves. From the latest trends to the best ways to store items, these experts know how to bring order to even the smallest of spaces. If you’re tired of the chaos in your pantry and wish to have a more organized and functional space, then this article is for you. Read on to discover the six vital tips from professional organizers that will help you transform your pantry into an ideal storage area.
First and foremost, it’s important to declutter your pantry. Go through all the items and remove anything that is expired, duplicates, or no longer needed. This will create more space and make it easier to organize the remaining items. Group similar items together, such as spices, snacks, or canned foods. This will not only help you locate them easily but also make it visually appealing.
One of the best ways to organize a small pantry is to utilize vertical space. Get an over-the-door organizer to maximize your space. This will allow you to store smaller items like jars or snacks without taking up valuable shelf space. Laura Cattano, a professional organizer and founder of Organized by Laura in Lancaster, says, “Having an over-the-door organizer makes it easy to reach for items you use often and keeps them at eye level.”
Another important tip is to utilize clear containers for storing dry goods, such as grains, pasta, or cereals. This will make it easier to see what you have and avoid opening multiple containers to find what you need. Seraphina Wood, a professional home organizer at The Liberators in Lancaster, recommends using square or rectangular containers to maximize space efficiency.
In terms of organizing the pantry, always keep the most frequently used items at eye level and within easy reach. Place items you use less often towards the back or on higher shelves. This way, you won’t have to constantly move things around when you need to access them. It will save you time and prevent any frustration in the long run.
Finally, when submitting your pantry to a makeover, think about the overall design and aesthetics. Professionals suggest using labels or clear signs to categorize items and create a visually appealing space. This will not only make it easier to find what you’re looking for but also add a touch of style to your pantry.
Organizing a small pantry may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tips and tricks from professional organizers, you can turn it into a well-organized and functional space. Remember to declutter, group items, utilize vertical space, utilize clear containers, keep frequently used items at eye level, and consider the overall design. By following these six vital tips, you’ll be on your way to having an organized pantry that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing.
How to organize a small pantry
When it comes to organizing a small pantry, professionals like Laura Oldham, the founder of Design Liberators, have these vital tips to create an ideal and functional space.
- Think vertical: To make the most of the limited space in a small pantry, it’s important to utilize the vertical space. Install shelves from floor to ceiling to maximize the storage capacity.
- Categorize items: Organize items in your pantry by category. Group similar items together, such as baking supplies, canned goods, and snacks. This will make it easier to find what you need and avoid duplicates.
- Utilize over-the-door storage: Over-the-door organizers are a great solution for small pantries. They provide additional storage for items that are frequently used and keep them within easy reach.
- Create a labeling system: Labeling shelves and baskets can help maintain an organized pantry. Use clear labels that are easy to read to ensure everything has its designated place.
- Declutter regularly: Keep your small pantry organized by decluttering regularly. Get rid of expired or unused items and only keep what you actually use. This will prevent a buildup of unnecessary items and keep your pantry clutter-free.
- Stay updated with organizing trends: Stay up to date with the latest organizing trends and products that can help maximize space in a small pantry. Keeping up with these trends can provide new ideas and solutions to make organizing your pantry even easier.
Following these tips from professional organizers like Laura Oldham can help transform your small pantry into an organized and functional space that is easy to navigate. By implementing these strategies, you can ensure that everything has its place and that your pantry remains organized over time.
1 Categorize items
When organizing a small pantry, the first and most important step is to categorize items. This is essential for creating an efficient and functional space. Professional organizers always recommend grouping similar items together to make it easier to find what you need.
Laura Lancaster, the founder of a renowned design firm, suggests dividing your pantry into zones. This means creating separate areas for different types of foods, such as snacks, baking goods, spices, and canned items. By categorizing items in this way, you can ensure that everything has its designated place and nothing gets lost or overlooked.
One useful tip from Seraphina Oldham, a seasoned professional organizer, is to use clear jars or containers for items like spices, grains, and pasta. This not only looks aesthetically pleasing but also allows you to see what you have at a glance, eliminating the need to rummage through multiple bags or boxes to find what you’re looking for.
Decluttering is also crucial during the categorization process. Professionals suggest going through every item in your pantry and getting rid of anything that is expired, unused, or duplicates. This will help create more space and prevent overcrowding.
Once you have categorized your items and decluttered, it’s time to organize them on the shelves. Many experts recommend using vertical space to maximize storage. Over-the-door organizers and stackable bins can be used to keep things tidy and make the most of every square inch.
Having a clear system in place will make it easier to maintain your organized pantry. When putting items back, always return them to their designated zone. This way, you’ll always know where to find what you need and can avoid the risk of buying duplicates.
Overall, categorizing items is the first and most crucial step when organizing a small pantry. It helps you keep things together, reach items easily, and maintain an organized space. Following these tips from professionals will ensure that your pantry is efficient, functional, and a joy to use in your everyday cooking and meal preparation.
2 Regularly declutter your small pantry
Regularly decluttering your small pantry is essential to keep it organized and functional. Here are some tips to help you declutter effectively:
- Remove expired items: Take some time to go through your pantry and remove any expired items. Check the expiration dates on canned goods, boxed foods, and condiments, and discard anything that is past its prime.
- Donate unused items: If you have non-perishable items that you know you won’t use, consider donating them to a local food bank or charity. This way, you can not only declutter your pantry but also help those in need.
- Group similar items together: Organize your pantry by grouping similar items together. For example, keep all your baking supplies in one section and snacks in another. This will make it easier to find what you need and prevent duplicates.
- Empty and wipe down shelves: Take everything off the shelves, wipe them clean, and then put items back in an organized manner. This will give you a fresh start and ensure that you have a clean and hygienic pantry.
- Utilize vertical space: Make the most of every square inch in your small pantry by utilizing vertical space. Install over-the-door organizers or add extra shelves to maximize storage capacity.
- Keep an inventory: Consider keeping an inventory of your pantry items. This can be done using a simple notepad or even a spreadsheet on your computer. Having an inventory will help you keep track of what you have and avoid buying duplicate items.
By regularly decluttering and organizing your small pantry, you can create a functional and efficient space that will make cooking and meal preparation a breeze.
3 Bring soon-to-expire foods to the fore
One of the most important steps in organizing a small pantry is to ensure that you use up your food items before they expire. Laura Lancaster, a professional organizer from Lancaster Organizing, suggests bringing soon-to-expire foods to the front of your pantry to make it easy to see and use them.
“When organizing your pantry, it’s always best to move the older items to the front,” says Lancaster. “This way, you can ensure that you use them before they go bad.” She also recommends grouping similar items together, such as snacks or baking spices, to keep things organized and make it easy to find what you’re looking for.
Seraphina Oldham, the founder of The Liberators International, agrees and adds that creating zones within your pantry is a good way to keep things organized. “By designating a specific shelf or square for soon-to-expire foods, you can easily see what needs to be used up,” says Oldham. “This not only helps reduce food waste but also ensures that you always have fresh ingredients on hand.”
To create a zone for soon-to-expire foods, Oldham suggests using a vertical shelf divider or an over-the-door storage rack. “These organizers make it easy to see and access your soon-to-expire items,” she says. “You can also use clear bins or containers to store these foods, which makes it even easier to see what you have.”
If you wish to go a step further, professionals recommend submitting a monthly inventory of your pantry items. “Taking stock of what you have and organizing it will help you avoid duplicates,” says Laura Lancaster. “You might not realize you have three jars of oregano until you organize your pantry!”
In terms of privacy, professionals say that keeping duplicates of commonly used items (such as spices) is a good idea. “We love seeing readers move their most commonly used spices to the front and then store backups in the back,” says Lancaster. “This way, you always have what you need on hand, but the extras aren’t cluttering up your visible pantry space.”
4 Use shelf risers to see items at the back of deep shelves
When it comes to organizing a small pantry, one of the biggest challenges is maximizing the space and making sure that everything is easily accessible, especially items at the back of deep shelves. This is where shelf risers come in handy.
Shelf risers are small but effective tools that can help you see and reach items that would otherwise be hidden or difficult to access. They create additional levels within your shelves, allowing you to stack items and still be able to see everything at a glance.
To use shelf risers, simply place them on your shelves and arrange your items on top of them. This will not only make it easier to see what you have but also make it much simpler to retrieve items when needed.
Laura C. Oldham, a professional organizer and the founder of The Liberated Home, recommends using shelf risers for various pantry items, particularly jars, spices, and baking supplies.
“Shelf risers are ideal for organizing spices and other small items that you use frequently,” says Oldham. “They help keep everything in order and within reach.”
By using shelf risers, you can ensure that nothing gets lost or buried at the back of your pantry shelves. This not only saves you time and effort but also helps prevent the chaos that can come from having to rummage through your pantry every time you need something.
When selecting shelf risers, look for ones that are sturdy and easy to clean. Oldham advises choosing ones with a non-slip surface to prevent items from sliding around.
In terms of design, you have various options to choose from. There are traditional shelf risers that simply elevate your items, as well as more modern options that come with built-in dividers or compartments for added organization.
Remember, the key is to find shelf risers that work best for your specific pantry and organizing needs. Experiment with different sizes and styles until you find the ones that suit you.
Overall, using shelf risers is a simple yet effective step in organizing a small pantry. It not only helps you declutter and maximize space but also ensures that everything is easily accessible, saving you time and reducing stress in the kitchen.
5 Use vertical door space
When it comes to organizing a small pantry, one of the most underutilized spaces is the vertical space on the pantry door. By utilizing this space, you can free up valuable shelf space and keep your pantry more organized and efficient.
One popular way to use the vertical door space is by hanging over-the-door organizers. These organizers typically have pockets or baskets that can hold various pantry items, such as spices, jars, snacks, and baking items. They are easy to install and can be a game-changer in terms of decluttering and organizing your pantry.
Laura Cattano, a professional organizer, recommends using over-the-door organizers for frequently used items. “This helps keep the items within easy reach and ensures that they are always visible,” she says. “You can group similar items together so that you can easily find what you need.”
Seraphina Lancaster, another professional organizer, suggests using the vertical door space for organizing snacks. “Many homes have a zone dedicated to snacks, and using the door space for this purpose is ideal,” she says. “You can keep various snacks in separate pockets or baskets, making it easy for kids and adults to grab them.”
Dawn Oldham, a professional home organizer, also emphasizes the importance of vertical door space in keeping your pantry organized. “When you have limited shelf space, it’s crucial to make the most out of every inch,” she says. “Using the vertical door space prevents things from getting lost at the back and ensures that everything is easily visible and accessible.”
One important step in utilizing the vertical door space is to declutter and get rid of anything you don’t need or use. “Move duplicates, expired items, or anything that you don’t love or use to create more space in your pantry,” suggests Laura Cattano. “This will help you keep the door pockets or baskets organized and prevent them from becoming a source of chaos.”
If you prefer a more organized and streamlined look, Laura Cattano recommends using clear over-the-door pockets or baskets. “These allow you to see the contents at a glance, which helps save time when searching for specific items,” she says. “You can also label the pockets or baskets to ensure that everything has its designated place.”
In terms of design trends, professionals suggest considering the aesthetic of your pantry when choosing over-the-door organizers. “You can find organizers in various materials, colors, and styles, so pick something that complements the overall look of your pantry,” advises Seraphina Lancaster. “When everything looks visually appealing, you’ll be more motivated to keep it organized.”
Overall, using the vertical door space in your small pantry can be a game-changer in terms of organization and efficiency. Whether you opt for clear pockets, labeled baskets, or a specific aesthetic, taking advantage of this often underutilized space will help you make the most out of your pantry and keep it organized for years to come.
6 Use containers that better fit the space
When organizing a small pantry, it’s essential to use containers that are appropriate for the size of the space. This will help maximize the available storage and make your pantry more functional and efficient.
Aged containers, such as mason jars or vintage tins, can add a touch of style and organization to your pantry. There are also various modern organizers available in the market that can be used to store different types of items.
One organizing trend that many homeowners in Lancaster, like Seraphina Oldham, love is using clear containers. Clear containers allow you to see exactly what you have stored inside without having to move things around or open multiple containers to find what you’re looking for. This not only saves time but also helps in reducing clutter and preventing duplicates.
In terms of size and shape, square or rectangular containers are usually better suited for small spaces. They can be stacked easily and efficiently, allowing you to utilize vertical space. This is particularly useful when storing snacks and smaller items that can easily get lost in a cluttered pantry.
Dawn Lancaster, the founder of Organized Chaos, recommends using over-the-door organizers for extra storage if you have limited shelf space. These organizers can be used to store items such as spices, condiments, or even cleaning supplies, keeping them within easy reach.
When choosing containers, it’s important to consider your pantry’s layout and the types of items you wish to store. For example, if you have a deep pantry with limited shelf space, you might opt for deeper containers that can hold more items, such as stackable bins.
Having a well-organized pantry not only makes it easier to find and access items but also helps ensure that your food stays fresh for longer. By using containers that better fit your space, you can declutter your pantry and stay organized in the most efficient way possible.
FAQs
Q: How do I start organizing my small pantry?
A: The first step is to declutter and get rid of any items that you no longer need or use. Group similar items together and decide on a layout that works best for your space. Consider using vertical storage to maximize the space.
Q: What is the ideal layout for a small pantry?
A: The ideal layout will vary depending on the size and shape of your pantry. However, professionals suggest dividing your pantry into zones, such as a snacks zone, baking zone, and spices zone. This will make it easier to find things and ensure that everything has its own place.
Q: Should I store duplicates in my pantry?
A: It’s best to avoid storing duplicates in your pantry to avoid clutter. Professionals recommend keeping only what you need and using the space for items that you use frequently.
Q: How do I ensure that items are within reach in my small pantry?
A: Organizers suggest placing commonly used items at eye level and keeping less frequently used items on higher or lower shelves. This will make it easier to access the things you need without having to search through everything.
Q: What are some important things to consider when organizing a small pantry?
A: Some important things to consider include ensuring proper labeling of containers and storage bins, making sure items are placed in the front for easy access, and using clear organizers to see what’s inside without having to open every container.
Q: What are some popular pantry organizing trends?
A: Popular trends include using jars to store grains and snacks, using dividers to separate different types of foods, and using shelf organizers to maximize space. Professionals recommend staying up to date with the latest trends to make organizing your pantry easier and more efficient.
In what order should a small pantry be organized
When it comes to organizing a small pantry, professional organizers have shared some valuable tips that can help you make the most of your limited space. From decluttering to creating zones, here is the suggested order for organizing a small pantry:
- Declutter: Before starting the organizing process, it is always recommended to declutter your pantry. Get rid of expired or old food items that you no longer need or wish to use. This will help create more space for the items you actually use.
- Create zones: Once you have decluttered, it’s time to create zones within your pantry. Laura Oldham, a professional organizer, suggests grouping similar items together. For example, store all your spices in one zone, snacks in another, and so on. This makes it easier to find what you need and keeps everything organized.
- Organize vertically: Utilizing vertical space is important in a small pantry. Seraphina Dawn, another professional organizer, recommends using over-the-door organizers or vertical shelves to maximize storage. This helps free up shelf space for larger items and keeps smaller items accessible.
- Store frequently used items within reach: Professionals always suggest having the most frequently used items within easy reach. This includes snacks, spices, or anything else that you reach for regularly. By placing these items within reach, you can save time and avoid chaos when searching for them.
- Create an ideal shelf look: To ensure a visually pleasing and organized pantry, think about how the shelves should look. Organize items by height, placing taller items at the back and shorter items in the front. This makes it easier to see everything at a glance and prevents items from being hidden.
- Avoid duplicates: Lastly, professionals recommend avoiding duplicates. If you have multiple items that are the same, try to consolidate them into one container. This not only saves space but also helps prevent food waste.
By following these tips and organizing your small pantry in the suggested order, you can create a functional and efficient space that makes it easy to find and access the items you need.
How do I group items in my small pantry
When it comes to organizing a small pantry, grouping similar items together is key. This not only ensures that everything is easily accessible, but also maximizes the available space. Here are some tips from professional organizers to help you group items effectively:
- Sort items by category: First, categorize your pantry items into groups such as canned goods, dry goods, snacks, spices, baking supplies, and so on. This allows you to easily locate and grab what you need.
- Use containers or jars: Invest in clear containers or jars to store items like pasta, rice, cereals, and snacks. Not only do they keep these items fresh for longer, but they also make it easier to see what you have and avoid buying duplicates.
- Utilize vertical space: Take advantage of vertical space by using stackable shelves or tiered organizers. This helps to maximize the space between shelves and allows you to see everything at a glance.
- Create zones: Divide your pantry into zones based on how frequently you use certain items. For example, have a designated zone for everyday essentials like spices and condiments that you use regularly. This way, you can easily reach for them without having to navigate through other items.
- Consider an over-the-door organizer: If you’re short on shelf space, consider using an over-the-door organizer. This is particularly good for storing smaller items like snacks or spice jars.
- Label everything: To ensure that your small pantry stays organized, label everything. This makes it easy to find what you need and also helps other family members or housemates to maintain the order.
By following these tips, you can transform your small pantry into an organized and functional space. Remember, the goal is to make it easy to find and access items whenever you need them. Happy organizing!