Without the right organizational tools, the panty can be a scary and disorganized place harboring rotting food and bugs, yuck! It should take you less than an hour to complete this task for months of pantry neatness pleasure and reduced food waste. Start by clearing out EVERYTHING inside your pantry, wipe down all the shelves and follow these simple tips:
- Put items back on shelves so that the oldest ones are at the front so they’re used first.
- Group similar items together, for example: dressings & condiments, all baking items, packaged goods, canned goods, etc.
- Write the expiration date with a sharpie on the top of all cans and package items that don’t get eaten quickly.
- Keep a list inside your pantry and write down what you need immediately when it’s running low, before it’s gone.
Make the most of your storage and use this great door organizer from The Container Store’s elfa collection which allows you to add or subtract shelves as needed. It’s on SALE, a favorite word, at more than 20% off right now! These shelves are also a great place to store food with close expiration dates as well.
The Perfectly Stocked Pantry List:
Canned Goods
- Canned Soup
- Canned Fish
- Diced Tomatoes
- Crushed Tomatoes
- Tomato Paste
- Black Beans
- Chick Peas
- Coconut Milk
- Evaporate Milk
- Water Chestnuts
- Bamboo Shoots
Dressings
- Oil & Vinegar
- Salad Dressings
- Dip Mixes
- Condiments
- Bread Crumbs & Croutons
- Sauces
Dry Goods
- Rice
- Pasta
- Barley
- Quinoa
- Nuts
- Seeds
- Dried Fruit
- Dried Vegetables
Baking
- White Flour
- Whole Wheat Flour
- Sugar
- Pancake Mix
- Raisins
- Chocolate Chips
Breakfast & Snacks
- Cereal
- Crackers
- Chips & Popcorn
- Cookies & Treats
- Granola Bars
