How to Organize a Pantry with Labels
“Don’t agonize. Organize.” – Florynce Kennedy
When things around me are organized, then I feel organized and motivated.
On the other hand, when I’m disorganized and surrounded by clutter, well you know the rest of the story. I agonize!
When it comes to the kitchen, the fridge, the pantry … it gets out of control really fast in my household. How about yours?
I think it’s because we’re a really busy family, I work part-time, our kids have kitchen duty every day so things don’t always get put back in “their place.”
I invited my talented friend, Sam, over with her label maker. She willingly came to help me out, pulled everything out of the pantry, looked at dates and did a lot of tossing, and put everything back in … it’s “place.”
She had a plan before she even arrived!
Unfortunately, without a plan, pantry shelves can quickly become a disorganized mess, making it difficult to find items you need, and really frustrating the kids.
How to organize a pantry with a label maker
1. Pull everything out of the pantry.
2. Check dates as you pull items out and either toss, or set aside on the bar or table.
3. Organize by groups of foods, ie., rice, pasta, beans, soups, sauces, etc.
4. Wipe out the pantry with hot soapy water.
5. As you put the items back in, decide what should be put into baskets or containers.
6. BRING THE FOOD ITEMS TO THE FRONT that you use the most.
7. Label each section to make it easier on other family members.
8. Group small things in baskets, paper items in baskets, and put lightweight items or things you rarely use on the top the shelves.
9. Put snacks and cereals at eye-level for kids.
I’d like to talk about why it’s important to bring to the “front” of the shelves the items you use the most.
We are a bean family and my children have learned creative ways to use a can of beans.
I like to bring the healthier items to the front so they are accessible and will be used.
Remember, be organized–you have to have a “plan.” And to stay organized you have to “stick to the plan.” Also, here’s a post from last year on expiration dates. Now that brings up a whole other subject, but do you fudge on expiration dates?
It’s a brilliant idea to bring an “expert” over to help with large projects that may seem overwhelming. Or even a friend with a second opinion.
And I just may be calling my friend Sam over again for a New Year’s “sprucing up.” :)
Do you have an organizational plan for your cupboards, or do you live in happy chaos?
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I’m Sandy—lover of food, family, cooking, THE BIG BOARD, travel, and bringing people together. Through great recipes and connection around the table, we become better, stronger, and more courageous people. Feasting on Life is real, and every time we do it, we grow a little more. Read more...
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Pingback: How to Organize Your Pantry | New House New Home
Labels are great advice. There seems to be a trend of using “Printables” – free printable images that make great labels (especially for those of us without access to a label maker. If you could provide some links to free printables that would be outstanding!
Another option I’ve used is File Folder Labels (I like the multicolored ones) and I’ve even used name tag labels lol “Hello My Name is: Photos”
Wow, what a great post! I would love it if you linked your tips up to my organization link party this week. I know my readers would love to see them: http://thriftmeblog.com/lets-organize-2012-pantry-recap-link-party/
Thanks!
I’m not sure I have a “plan” but I do like things organized. I have a “baking” cupboard that is above my mixer and holds all my baking supplies.
With a move looming over our heads organization is a top priority. Like you, with kids helping in the kitchen, it is amazing where all things wind up. I like the label ides and think it will be a purchase when we move in a few weeks. Wow, an organized kitchen because everything has a labeled space. Love the concept! =) Thanks for the tips to get it all down as well. Tossing expired products makes me mad because I wasted something, but you can;t take a chance of serving something that will make you family sick either.
I’ve got a pantry that looks a lot like yours. Mine is a closet under the stairs my husband converted by installing shelves for me. I tend to keep heavy items and snack items on the bottom, and group cans, boxes, etc. by category. I’m not good, however, about checking expiration dates. So do I fudge? I’m sure I do since I rarely check the dates. Maybe need to work on that one, and I also have a label maker – didnt even think to get it out and put some labels. Might make it easier when my husband is helping me put away the groceries. Always appreciate your website.
I have to have organization, especially in my kitchen. Saves time and money! I did a guest post last year at Honey We’re Home regarding my pantries and kitchen…a label maker is a must!
It’s on my list for January – just as soon as I get over this awful cold which has kept me down for over a week. I’m so far behind but have no energy to do anything. Oh well, there’s always February – the “to do” list will still be there!!
oh my – this is on my list of ‘to-dos’ this year – labels, while obvious, are such a good suggestion, helpful for my husband (and for me!)