How to organise the pantry and kitchen cabinets?
Without proper organisation, daily kitchen life quickly descends into chaos. We continually bring new groceries, food items and cleaning products into our homes—sometimes enough to last a month. Without an efficient storage system, items get forgotten at the back of cupboards, expiry dates pass unnoticed, and we create needless waste while repeatedly buying things we already own.
Organising your pantry and kitchen cabinets is essential for maximising space, reducing waste, and—most importantly—finding what you need quickly, saving time.
Here are 10 essential tips to get you started!
How to organise the pantry and the kitchen cabinets
Although pantry and kitchen cabinets are separate areas of the house, they should work together to simplify your daily routine. Below are some tips to help you optimise these essential kitchen spaces.
1. Prepare the storage areas
Before organising, start with a thorough cleaning.
Remove all items from your kitchen cabinets and pantry. Then, deep clean the surfaces and declutter by discarding or donating anything you no longer need.
We often keep things we never use, which only take up valuable space. Apply the same process to drawers and pantry shelves.
2. Sort items into categories
Grouping similar items simplifies organisation. Place all knives in a dedicated section near your other cutlery, with each type of utensil separated by function.
Store less frequently used kitchen tools on higher shelves or deeper cabinets, but ensure they remain visible and within reach. Items stored out of sight tend to be forgotten and rarely used again! This method transforms your kitchen workflow, making meal preparation more efficient and saving precious time.
3. Keep frequently used utensils within easy reach
Accessibility is key.
Place everyday kitchen tools at the front of cabinets and drawers so they are always within reach.
4. Use organisers and dividers
Organisers and additional shelves are game changers for efficient storage inside drawers and cabinets. These solutions create extra storage levels and help you maximise the available space.
Consider using tiered shelves to stack bowls and plates neatly. Arrange glasses by height to avoid clutter. Mug holders can be attached under shelves to free up even more space.
5. Install shelves in the pantry
Install shelves to maximise space and maintain a tidy pantry.
Arrange items according to how often you use them—keep everyday essentials at eye level where you can grab them quickly, and place occasional items higher up or lower down.
6. Use baskets and storage boxes
Baskets and boxes are perfect for keeping smaller items organised and preventing them from getting lost in deep shelves. Label them to ensure you always know what needs restocking.
For example, use separate boxes for canned goods, biscuits, snacks, or juice cartons. Use baskets to store fresh produce like fruit, bread, onions, and potatoes.
7. Organise by expire date
Prevent food waste by strategically arranging products according to their expiry dates throughout your pantry, kitchen cabinets and fridge.
Position items nearing their expiry date at the front, ensuring you consume these products before reaching for newer purchases with longer shelf lives. This straightforward practice dramatically reduces forgotten food and unnecessary waste, saving money and resources.
8. Keep labels visible
Ensure that product labels face forward so you can find them easily.
This method also speeds up shopping list preparation.
9. Use clear jars and containers
Switching from original packaging to transparent jars and containers improves organisation and accessibility. You can find various jars and containers for storing dry goods such as pasta, rice, legumes, and flour.
Since you can see the contents at a glance (don’t forget to label them!), clear containers help keep your kitchen tidy while optimising space, especially if they are stackable.
Always ensure they are clean and dry before refilling them.
10. Keep a notepad in the pantry
Place a notepad in your pantry or a kitchen drawer to keep an updated shopping list. By writing down what you’re running low on, you’ll avoid unnecessary purchases and ensure your pantry is always well-stocked.
In sum, organising the pantry and the kitchen cabinets has never been easier!
As we’ve seen, these simple strategies will help keep your pantry and kitchen cabinets clean and well-organised. They also allow you to:
• Save space by making the most of every centimetre in your kitchen.
• Save time by making it easier to find what you need when cooking.
• Save money by simplifying your shopping list and reducing food waste.
In short, everything becomes more efficient. Get started now and make the most of your kitchen space!
For even more convenience in your daily kitchen tasks, upgrade your sink area with the Master Box. This set of three accessories—a cutting board, colander, and plate drainer—will make your routine more practical than ever!
Check our Instagram for more tips & tricks and inspiration for your daily routine in the kitchen.
