We all have products stuffed in our larder for months. We might have wanted to use them, but the clutter made it impossible to even remember they were there.
This naturally leads to wasted money, expired items, and missed cooking opportunities. For this reason, it’s a good idea to organise this part of your kitchen every once in a while.
Here’s how to do just that.
Assess Your Current Setup
Start by emptying your cabinets. With everything laid out in front of you, it’ll be easier to see what you actually have.
As you sort through, pay attention to the foods you reach for most often, like pasta, cereal, or favourite snacks. Keep these in easy-to-access spots, and while you’re at it, check expiration dates to make sure everything is fresh and safe to eat.
Finally, grab a tape measure and note the dimensions of your cabinets. Knowing the exact space you’re working with will help you decide the best fit for your containers and organisers when it’s time to put everything back.
Invest in Clear Storage Containers
Using clear storage containers is one of the simplest upgrades you can make.
They instantly cut down on clutter, make your cupboards look neat, and save you from digging around for that last packet of rice. To reduce waste and make sure your food stays fresh for longer, go for airtight, sealable options.
Stackability is something you should consider as well. Containers that stack on top of each other maximise your cupboard space. Brands like Décor and Sistema offer sturdy, modular ranges that fit easily into standard cabinets.
It’s also wise to mix and match sizes to suit your needs. Smaller containers are perfect for snacks, nuts, or baking ingredients, while larger ones are best for cereal, pasta, and rice.
If you want to go with uniform sizes, you can do that, too. They actually create that clean, streamlined look you often see in design magazines.
As for spices, they don’t need to be in clear jars, but they do need clear labels. A quick label will prevent confusion, because accidentally sprinkling salt into your morning coffee is not the surprise you want before work.
Utilise Vertical Space
If you’re ready to overhaul your storage, the secret isn’t finding more space. It lies in making the most of what you already have.
Vertical space is a goldmine, but it’s often ignored. When used right, it can completely transform your storage situation.
So, mount extra shelves, grab some stackable bins, or turn cupboard doors into storage powerhouses with hooks and racks.
Consider tension rods or wire racks to separate items vertically inside deep cabinets. They will prevent small packets from being buried under heavier boxes.
Hanging utensils, oven mitts, or even spice racks inside doors will also clear up precious shelf space while keeping your must-haves within arm’s reach.
Placement matters just as much as organisation. Keep everyday essentials right at eye level so you’re not constantly searching for them.
Last but not least, tuck rarely used items on higher shelves where they’re out of the way but still accessible.
You can play around with different setups until you land on one that makes your space work for you.
Group Similar Items Together
One of the simplest ways to keep your kitchenrunning smoothly is to create little zones by placing similar items together.
Think of it as setting up mini departments in your cupboard. Baking essentials can live in one spot, while snacks get their own section. Similarly, canned goods or spices should each have a dedicated corner.
This system makes cooking faster and far less stressful. You’ll know exactly where to find everything instead of digging through the back of a shelf for that missing tin of tomatoes.
Remember, this layout isn’t fixed. Your pantry should evolve with your habits. So, if you start baking more often or stock up on bulk grains, adjust your zones to match this.
Implement a ‘First In, First Out’ System
Without a solid system in place, your cupboard will eventually fall back into chaos. That’s where the ‘first in, first out’ method comes in.
This simple strategy ensures that the oldest items get used first, preventing food from sitting around too long and going to waste.
To make it work, always place newer groceries behind older ones. Whether it’s canned goods, pasta, or snacks, using what you bought first will keep everything fresh and organised.
So, give this method a try to keep your larder neat and your grocery bills in check.
Regularly Maintain Your Larder
A well-organised pantry makes life so much easier. So, take a moment every month or two to check if everything is where it should be.
Sometimes, the way you’ve arranged things needs revisiting. Expiration dates are nice indicators that reorganisation is in good order.
While you’re at it, give the shelves a quick wipe down to clear out crumbs and spills. And, check for signs of moisture or pests. You can keep a small box of baking soda in the pantry to absorb excess humidity.
And here’s a trick that’ll make your future self grateful: keep a pantry inventory list, either on your phone or a notepad stuck inside the door. Jot down what you’ve got and what needs restocking.
It’s a small step, but it’ll stop you from doubling up and make meal planning much smoother.
Don’t want to deal with all that sticky residue? Fair enough. You can always have professional cleaners handle this part.
These services can also provide a full reorganisation, install shelf dividers, or fit modular containers that suit your specific space. Using them once or twice a year makes monthly upkeep much easier.
Conclusion
Keeping things in order isn’t just about the way everything looks. It also saves time, keeps your ingredients fresh, and makes cooking feel effortless.
When you properly organise your cabinet, you can find the cinnamon in the right place and pick up a bag of flour without rummaging through a tower of pasta boxes. So, try these hacks out and see how much smoother your kitchen routine will become.
