Part 3 of New Year, New Space
Pantry Decluttering: A Simple Guide to an Organized Kitchen
A cluttered pantry can make cooking stressful, lead to food waste, and even cost you more money when you accidentally buy duplicates of items you already have. Taking the time to declutter your pantry every few months can keep your kitchen organized and efficient. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you streamline your pantry and make the most of what you have.
1. Check Expiration Dates
Start by going through every item in your pantry and checking expiration dates. Toss anything that’s expired, stale, or no longer safe to eat. If you find items that are past their best-by date but still safe, decide whether you’ll use them soon—otherwise, it’s best to let them go.
2. Make a List of Items to Use Up
As you go through your pantry, take note of food that’s still good but needs to be used soon. Maybe you have a half-used bag of rice, a can of beans close to expiration, or a forgotten box of pasta. Plan your meals around these items so they don’t go to waste.
3. Clean the Shelves
Once you've emptied out your pantry, give the shelves a thorough wipe-down. Dust, crumbs, and spills can accumulate over time, attracting pests and making your pantry look messy. A clean space will make it easier to see what you have and keep everything fresh.
4. Store Things in Clear Containers
One of the best ways to keep your pantry looking neat and organized is by using clear containers. They help you quickly see what you have and prevent spills or messes from opened packages. Plus, airtight containers can extend the shelf life of dry goods like flour, sugar, pasta, and cereals.
5. Label Everything
Labels make it easy to find what you need, especially when storing items in bins or jars. Use a label maker, stickers, or even masking tape and a marker to label your containers with the item name and expiration date. This will save time when cooking and prevent you from buying duplicates.
6. Declutter Every Few Months
To keep your pantry from getting out of control, make decluttering a habit. Try to go through your pantry every three to six months, depending on how often you cook. A little regular maintenance prevents food waste and keeps your kitchen running smoothly.
7. Donate Unused Food
If you come across items that are still good but you know you won’t use, consider donating them to a local food pantry. Many food banks accept non-perishable goods like canned food, pasta, and rice. This is a great way to clear space while helping others in need.
Final Thoughts
An organized pantry makes meal planning easier, reduces stress, and helps prevent food waste. By following these simple steps every few months, you’ll create a functional and efficient space where you can easily find what you need. So grab some bins, a label maker, and a donation box—it’s time to refresh your pantry! If you have any other ideas you need help decluttering shoot us an email and we will feature it in the next newsletter.
