How to Organise a Small Pantry: Maximise Space & Minimise Clutter

A small pantry can be both a blessing and a challenge. While it’s great to have a dedicated space for all your dry goods, limited shelf space can make organising tricky. But don’t worry - creating an organised, functional pantry is possible, even in tight spaces! With the right strategies, you can transform your small pantry into a neat and efficient storage area that makes meal prep a breeze.
Whether you’re working with just a few shelves or a tiny cupboard, here are 6 tips to organise a small pantry and make the most out of your space.

1. Declutter and Take Inventory
The first step to organising your pantry is to declutter. Take everything out, check expiry dates, and toss any expired or unused items. As you do this, take inventory of what you actually use and need. This will help you avoid buying duplicate items and free up space for what you truly use. It’s a great way to start fresh!

2. Group Similar Items Together
One of the best ways to keep your pantry organised is by grouping like items together. This not only makes it easier to find what you're looking for but also helps you keep track of what you have. For example:

• Baking supplies (flour, sugar, baking soda, etc.)
• Canned goods (soups, beans, vegetables)
• Snacks (chips, nuts, muesli bars)
• Grains & pasta (rice, quinoa, pasta)
• Spices and oils (vinegar, olive oil, salt, pepper)

Having a dedicated space for each category will reduce clutter and make it easier to find ingredients when cooking.

3. Use Clear Containers for Dry Goods
Investing in clear storage containers is one of the best ways to organise your small pantry. Not only do they make it easier to see what's inside, but they also keep your dry goods fresh and tidy. You can store items like pasta, rice, flour, and cereal in stackable containers to save space and prevent spills. Look for containers that are airtight and stackable to maximise vertical space. We recommend the Decor Design Series!

4. Maximise Vertical Space
When working with a small pantry, height is your friend. Use stackable containers to create more space.

5. Create Zones for Easy Access
Create “zones” within your pantry to organise items by frequency of use. For example:

• Everyday essentials (like cereal, rice, pasta) should be at eye level or easily accessible.
• Less frequently used items (like specialty oils, extra sauces, or holiday spices) can go higher or lower.
• Snacks or quick grab items (muesli bars, chips, etc.) should be at the front for easy access.

By categorising your items based on how often you use them, you can make your pantry much more user-friendly.

6. Regular Maintenance: Keep it Tidy
An organised pantry is not a one-time project—it’s something that needs regular upkeep. Check your pantry every couple of months to make sure everything is still organised and that no items are about to expire. Keeping your pantry tidy will prevent clutter from creeping back in.

Organising a small pantry doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these simple tips, you can create a space that’s not only functional but also easy to maintain. With a bit of creativity, you’ll be able to make the most of every inch of your pantry and have a clutter-free, stress-free kitchen. Happy organising!