How to Organize Your Pantry So It Actually Stays Tidy
“How should I organize my pantry so that it stays tidy?”
We hear this all the time—and it’s such a great question. The honest answer? There’s no one-size-fits-all fix. But there is a strategy that works, and it comes down to two things:
1. The physical space you’re working with
2. How your household functions—who uses the pantry and what routines need to be supported
Start With the Space
Take a good look at your pantry layout. How big is it, and how does that space compare to what you’re trying to store? Most people are simply trying to fit too much into too small a space. And while organizing systems can work wonders, they won’t solve overcrowding.
Here’s a pro tip: you might need to set up a backstock area somewhere else in your home—think basement, garage, laundry room, or even a guest room closet. The key is to keep your pantry from becoming so crowded that you cannot see what you have. If you can see your variety and volume, and each item has a place, you (and your family) can more easily keep the pantry organized. So, take the extras - whether they are multiples or extra large quantities that need to be decanted and
◈ Create a rotation system
◈ Check backstock before shopping
◈ Avoid overbuying and duplicate purchases
You may also want to reevaluate your shopping habits. Love a good Costco haul? Me too! But bulk buys need a plan. Evaluate how much of that large quanity you actual consume before it expires. Take a photo of your pantry and your backstock area before you go shopping so you don’t buy items you don’t need or don’t have room for. See if friends or neighbors want tosplit a case of (paper towels, TP, etc.) There may also be a buying club you want to join. And consider pausing or cancelling auto-ship subscriptions.
Then Build the System
Once you’ve reduced your inventory, it’s time to set up a custom organizing system that works for your household. That means asking:
◈ What kind of storage containers or bins are best?
◈ Where should everything go for easy access?
◈ How will things be labeled so everyone understands the system?
And what does the pantry need to look like? If having beautiful containers, pretty lighting and maybe even some artwork can make an pantry FEEL so goo you WANT to spend time in it, making it easier to keep tidy. But if that’s not important to anyone in the family, functionality only is the priority!
Now Comes the Habit Shift
This is where a little household coaching comes in. Everyone might need to shift how they’re used to doing things by:
◈ Learning how to put items back in the correct bin
◈ Adjusting to new routines
◈ Supporting the person who manages the pantry day to day
Sometimes it means compromise. And often it means bringing everyone’s awareness to the new system and setting clear expectations. If that seems overwhelming or you simply want someone else to manage that for you, that’s what expert home organzers do. We assess your space and goals, create custom systems and coach your household through the change process. Because you deserve an organized pantry that stays tidy.
If you need expert organizing help, don't hesitate to reach out. Visit pinkyjackson.com to schedule a free assessment. We would love to help you with our Onsite Organizing services if you are in the Louisville, KY area or our Virtual Organizing services if you are more remote or prefer to work online.
Pinky Jackson is an Organizing Expert and Decluttering Specialist. She and her team organize homes & small businesses in Louisville, KY. For more information about Pinky’s pricing & services or to schedule your free assessment, go topinkyjackson.com
Photo: Annie Spratt @anniespratt
