Keeping your pantry tidy and organized can seem like an impossible task, but it doesn’t have to be. With some thoughtful organization solutions, you can transform your pantry into a stylish and functional space you’ll love using. Here are 34 clever pantry organization ideas to help inspire you to get organized.
Use Bins and Baskets for Food Storage
Investing in a set of matching bins and baskets is one of the easiest ways to instantly upgrade your pantry. They provide dedicated homes for different food items, making it easy to see what you have at a glance. Look for bins and baskets in different sizes that can stack and nest. Some ideas:
- Clear plastic bins – Perfect for storing pastas, grains, baking ingredients, canned goods, etc. The clear plastic lets you easily identify contents.
- Wire baskets – Great for onions, potatoes, garlic and other fresh produce. The open wire construction promotes airflow to keep foods fresher longer.
- Small parts bins – Use these tiny bins to organize spices, condiments, baking extracts and other small items. Keeping these items contained makes them easier to find.
- Woven baskets – In addition to function, woven baskets add style and texture to your pantry. Use them to store packaged snacks, boxed goods and other dry items.
Arranging your bins and baskets neatly on shelves or stacking them makes the most of your vertical storage space.
Use Totes to Conceal Clutter
Plain plastic bins keep items organized, but they aren’t much to look at. Totes are a simple upgrade that conceal clutter while neatly corralling supplies. Options include:
- Fabric covered bins – Choose bins covered in cotton, canvas or another fabric to match your pantry decor. Use them to store packaged foods or cooking supplies like baking pans.
- Vintage style crates – Metal or wood crates with vintage flair are perfect for storing bulk items like potatoes and onions. The heavy-duty crates stack well.
- Decorative ceramic canisters – For the ultimate cottagecore pantry, store flour, sugar and other baking staples in decorative ceramic canisters. Choose pretty colors or patterns to coordinate.
Totes are ideal for keeping frequently-used items within reach on open shelves while maintaining a tidy look.
Use Clear Jars for Pantry Staples
Large glass jars are a gorgeous way to display and store pantry essentials like pasta, rice, dried beans, flour, sugar and more. Some tips:
- See contents easily through clear glass jars. Use chalkboard labels if needed.
- Match jars for a cohesive look. Mixing jar styles also looks nice.
- Consider glass color – clear, tinted or patterned glass all work.
- Attach chalkboard labels to jars to identify contents
- Display most-used ingredients on front shelves for easy access.
The visual appeal of clear jars transforms simple shelf staples into decorative elements.
Store Spices in Spice Racks
Never struggle to find the right spice again. Spice racks neatly organize your spices so you can see everything at a quick glance. Options include:
- Wall-mounted racks -Horizontal racks mounted inside cabinet doors or on walls maximize vertical storage space.
- Turntable racks – Rotating racks save shelf space. Turn to see all spice labels.
- Magnetic racks – Stick detachable magnetic racks right onto steel shelving or appliances.
- Tiered racks – Racks with multiple steps or shelves organize a large collection.
Group spice jars by cuisine type, frequency of use or jar height. Alphabetical order works too!
Use a “Lazy Susan” Turntable
Lazy Susans are revolving trays that provide easy access to items stored on deep shelving. Spin the suspended turntable to easily see and select ingredients in the back without unstacking items in the front. Perfect for corner cabinets or any deep shelves, Lazy Susans maximize use of awkward spaces.
Create a Baking Pantry
Bakers, rejoice! Designate a whole pantry just for baking ingredients and supplies to keep everything right at your fingertips. Ideas to include:
- Shelves or bins for flours (all-purpose, whole wheat, almond, etc.)
- Sugar bin and jars for granulated and brown sugars
- Spice racks for baking spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, etc.
- Bins for chocolate chips, nuts, coconut and other mix-ins
- Vertical space for cookie sheets, cooling racks and pans
- Canisters for vanilla, food coloring and other liquid extracts
With a baking pantry, you can quickly grab ingredients for cookies, cakes and other sweet treats.
Use Interlocking Modular Storage
Modular storage systems like The Home Edit consist of cube bins that connect together magnetically or via other fasteners. The uniform bins stack neatly and keep categories clearly defined. Ideas:
- Assign a bin color to each food category like snacks, baking goods, canned items, etc.
- Use labeled dividers to further organize categories as needed
- Stack bins vertically or arrange in rows – the possibilities are endless!
- Mix bin sizes to accommodate larger and smaller items
- Keep extras handy for adding storage as needed
The customized modular cubes keeps everything visible and instantly accessible.
Store Packaged Goods Upright
Take advantage of vertical space by storing packaged and boxed goods upright instead of laying them horizontally. This simply organizational hack keeps more items within reach and view. Try it with these items:
- Canned goods like beans, tomatoes, tuna, etc.
- Packaged grains like rice, quinoa, oats, etc.
- Snack items like granola bars, cracker boxes, etc.
- Sauce and soup cans, broth cartons, etc.
- Condiment bottles like soy sauce, ketchup, etc.
Storing items vertically takes up less shelf space and makes labels easy to scan.
Use Tension Rods for Extra Shelving
Lack shelf space? No problem! Install tension rods to create additional vertical storage instantly. These handy rods extend to fit snugly across corners, adding more surfaces for organizing essentials. Use them to store:
- Kitchen towels and pot holders
- Spices, condiments and baking supplies
- Bottled and canned goods
- Cleaning supplies like sprays, soaps, etc.
Tension rods maximize awkward empty spaces to gain storage surface area. Remove and reposition them anytime.
Take Advantage of Door Storage
Don’t let prime real estate on the back of cabinet doors go to waste! Use them to store frequently used items for easy access. Ideas include:
- Hanging a paper towel holder
- Mounting a foil and plastic wrap dispenser
- Attaching a spice rack for everyday herbs and seasonings
- Installing wine glass racks over or under shelves
- Using over-the-door racks for utensils or mixing bowls
Door storage is super convenient for items needed while cooking. Just reach right over and grab them!
Use Under-Shelf Baskets
Baskets designed to hang below shelves create handy instant storage for small items. Look for baskets with hooks that easily slip onto shelf edges. Use them to organize:
- Spices and seasoning packets
- Condiment pouches like ketchup, mustard, etc.
- Small jars, bottles or cans
- Kitchen tools like measuring spoons
Hang baskets under shelves, within cabinets or inside cabinet doors to maximize vertical storage.
Label Everything
Never rummage to find items again. Labeling every bin, basket, jar, canister and shelf makes it easy to quickly find, identify and return items to their dedicated space. Labeling options include:
- Chalkboard labels – Write directly on the chalkboard stickers.
- Printed labels – Type labels to print and stick on.
- Vinyl labels – Bold, durable vinyl labels withstand moisture and wear.
- Labeled spice jars – Etched, painted or printed labels.
A consistent labeling system keeps everything organized at a glance!
Store Items by Frequency of Use
The most efficient pantry organization places items you use most often in prime real estate – at eye level on front-facing shelves or in easy-to-access bins. Reserve top and bottom shelves for occasional-use items or overflow. Aim to keep day-to-day essentials right at your fingertips to save time.
Use Shelving Risers
Free up valuable vertical storage space and prevent items from getting lost in dark corners by using risers to elevate shelving. Made of metal or plastic, these handy lifts increase clearance between shelves. Benefits include:
- Increased headroom to easily see and remove items
- Improved airflow and visibility
- Accommodates taller items on lower shelves
Risers work with existing shelves. Look for sturdy risers that safely support heavy items.
Add Pull-Out Shelving
Are items hiding in the back of deep cupboards and pantries? Install pull-out shelves and trays to access those hard-to-reach spaces effortlessly. Look for heavy duty pull-outs able to fully extend and hold substantial weight. Benefits include:
- Full access to back areas without unsafely climbing shelves
- Easily see what’s stored in the depths of cupboards
- Smooth ball-bearing slides for easy open and close
- Improved organization since all areas are usable
No more dark mysterious voids – pull-outs transform wasted space into usable storage.
Use Vertical Dividers
Vertical dividers instantly add tidy separated storage to wide shelves. The simple long thin dividers stand upright to create defined compartments for organizing ingredients and supplies. Benefits include:
- Create custom spaces tailored to items you store
- Prevent boxes and jars from tipping over
- Maintain visible organization as items are removed
- Easy to install and reposition as needed
- Available in various heights like 6″, 9″, 12″ etc.
Dividers provide structure and neat segmentation without blocking visibility and access.
Store Bulk Items in Sealed Containers
Transferring bulk items like flour, sugar, rice, oats and coffee into large airtight containers makes your pantry look instantly tidier. Look for containers with secure seals to keep contents fresh. Options include:
- Canisters with screw-on lids
- Storage buckets with push-button lids
- Metal tins with latching handles
- Clear containers to easily identify contents
Uniform storage vessels streamline your pantry’s appearance.
Use Tiered Shelving and Risers
Maximize vertical storage and split big shelves into smaller sections with tiered shelving units and risers. These handy lifts create a “stepped” effect, doubling or tripling shelf space. Use risers to corral small items on a shelf. Look for sturdy, high weight capacity risers and shelving.
Install Additional Shelving
More shelves equal more storage space. If existing shelving is maxed out, install additional units to expand capacity. Consider:
- Freestanding shelving units placed on the floor or mounted on walls
- Extra shelves mounted inside existing cupboards
- Wall-mounted rails with adjustable shelves
- Ceiling-high shelving to use all available height
Modular shelving lets you add units as needed for a fully customized configuration.
Use Wall-Mounted Storage Solutions
Take advantage of vertical wall space even if your pantry lacks traditional shelving. Options like wall-mounted racks, pegboards and rails with hooks add storage surfaces while preserving floor space. Ideas:
- Sturdy shelves or cabinets anchored directly to studs
- Pegboard with hooks to hang utensils or pots
- Rail system with adjustable hooks for securing storage baskets
- Wall-mounted paper towel holder and dispensers
Don’t underestimate the storage potential of empty wall space – use it!
Hang Pots and Pans
Store bulky pots, pans and lids vertically to save shelf space. Options:
- Wall-mounted rails with S-hooks to hang cookware
- Ceiling-height poles for hanging pots by their handles
- Pegboard fitted with hooks to hang pans
- Vertical pan racks stored on the back of cabinet doors
Hanging pans gets them off shelves and within easy reach while cooking.
Use Tiered Storage Racks
Whether standing on the floor or mounted to walls, tiered storage racks double your vertical storage real estate. These handy units feature stacked shelves, creating more levels in the same footprint. Use them to organize:
- Canned goods, condiments and jars
- Spices, oils and other small bottles
- Baking pans and cooling racks
- Bulk dry goods in matching containers
- Cleaning supplies, soaps, etc.
Tiered racks keep more items visible and accessible in confined pantries.
Designate Zones
Don’t treat your pantry like one big jumbled space. Instead, create defined zones or areas devoted to categories to establish visual order. Possible zones include:
- Baking – Flours, sugars, spices, pans, etc.
- Snacks – Chips, bars, crackers, cookies, etc.
- Canned & Jarred Goods – Soups, sauce, pickles, etc.
- Beverages – Juices, coffee, tea bags, drink mixes
- Condiments & Oils – Ketchup, vinegar, olive oil, etc.
Zones organize similar items together, making recipes easier to shop from your pantry.
Use Baskets for Produce
Pretty woven baskets are perfect for corralling fruits, vegetables and other fresh produce. Benefits include:
- Allow airflow to prevent moisture buildup
- Let produce “breathe” – no plastic bags
- Easy to transport to counter for use
- Stylish rustic look complimenting any decor
- Available in assorted sizes and shapes
TIP: Line baskets with a clean towel to absorb excess moisture and prevent spoilage.
Mount Shelves to the Wall
Take advantage of vertical wall space by installing wall-mounted shelves and rails in empty spaces. This transforms wasted areas into valuable storage real estate while preserving floor space. Ideas:
- Floating wall shelves
- Rail systems with adjustable shelves
- Mounted cabinets with doors to conceal contents
- Spice racks, paper towel holders, pan racks and other storage accessories
Pro Tip: Ensure wall-mounted elements are securely anchored into studs to safely hold weight.
Use Freestanding Shelves
Don’t have traditional built-ins? No problem! Freestanding shelving units provide affordable and customizable pantry storage. Look for solid shelf units that fit your space. Ideas:
- Metal wire shelving units – Sturdy, ventilated and adjustable
- Wooden shelving on legs – Classic look with stained finish options
- Plastic modular shelving – Affordable, easy to configure
- Mix shelving types – use what works best for each zone
Freestanding units are easy to install, move and reconfigure as needed.
Stow Lesser-Used Items Up High
Not all pantry items get grabbed on a daily basis. Reserve your prime mid-level shelves for everyday staples used most often. Up high, stow lesser used items that only come down occasionally. Ideas:
- Holiday baking supplies – Decorative sugars, seasonal extracts, etc.
- Party food Items – Chips, pretzels, popcorn, etc.
- Oversized containers and bulk packs
- Specialty ingredients like vital wheat gluten, active dry yeast, etc.
- Spare paper towels, toilet paper, etc.
High shelves keep rarely needed items out of the way but still easy to access.
Use Cabinet Organizers and Dividers
Inside cabinets and drawers, dividers transform jumbled messes into neatly organized storage. Look for:
- Cutlery organizers to neatly separate utensils
- Adjustable cabinet dividers to create custom spaces for food boxes, pans, etc.
- Small parts organizers perfect for lids, spices and other tiny items
- Drawer dividers to neatly store foil, bags, plastic wrap, etc.
Organizers maximize cabinet and drawer capacity while keeping items visible and accessible.
Store Frequently Used Items at the Front
Maximize your time by storing oft-used staples right up front for quickest access. Reserve prime real estate for essentials like:
- Cooking oils, vinegars and condiments
- Spices, herbs and seasoning mixes
- Canned/jarred goods and sauces
- Baking ingredients – Flours, sugars, leaveners, etc.
- Snacks and breakfast foods
Keeping “daily drivers” up front reduces time spent hunting and reaching into back areas.
Add Lighting
Don’t squint into dark corners trying to see what’s on the shelf. Proper lighting transforms any closet or pantry into a brightly illuminated space you can actually see in. Options:
- Battery powered LED puck lights
- Under-cabinet LED strip lighting
- Motion-activated lights
- Plug-in cabinet light bars
- Door-mounted battery lights
Task lighting improves visibility, safety and accessibility.
Use Slide-Out Drawers
Deep pull-out drawers maximize every inch of available space, making items in the back accessible. Look for high-quality soft-close drawer slides. Use slides in:
- Existing cabinets or closets to retrofit with drawers
- Assembled cabinet units featuring drawers
- Under-sink organizers to neatly store cleaning supplies
- Spice drawer organizers allowing easy access to jars in the back
Drawers keep contents neatly contained while fully extending for easy access.
Add a Pantry Door
For an instant tidier look, add a door to an existing open pantry space. Doors neatly conceal the shelves and contents inside. Options include:
- Pre-hung door units designed for easy DIY installation
- Accordion-style folding doors
- Curtain panel doors hung from ceiling mounted rods
- Sliding barn doors mounted on an overhead rail system
- Cafe-style glass doors to allow visibility
Doors keep humidity in and dust out of your pantry.
Use Open Storage Baskets
Vented wire or w