Step 6 - Move in Although you’ve evaluated, sorted and prepped the space, you may need to make adjustments as you go, so be patient and have fun with the process. For example, adjustable shelves can be moved to create just the right amount of space for cans, or you can place cans stacked two high. Then again, maybe your canned goods (store bought or homemade) are best stored in the door rack. Whatever you do, keep like items together. Think about the way items are grouped in the grocery store. Dedicate shelves or sections for each category, such as: ▶ ▶ Baking supplies ▶ ▶ Pasta and sauces ▶ ▶ Rice and other grains ▶ ▶ Beans ▶ ▶ Ethnic foods ▶ ▶ Chips, nuts, pretzels and other snacks ▶ ▶ Soups and broths ▶ ▶ Vegetables ▶ ▶ Tomato sauce, paste, whole tomatoes Establishing categories keeps you ultra-organized whenmaking grocery lists and duringmeal planning. With a quick glance, you’ll know what you have and what you need to restock. Make the most efficient use of space by ditching large boxes and other unnecessary packaging. Use
Step 7 - Boost Your
clear totes, wood crates or baskets to hold items. These are easy to slide in and out so even the littlest hands and busiest parents can quickly find what they’re looking for. Totes are a great way to contain half-emptied pasta bags and keep rice from spilling all over the cabinet. Plus, they create a streamlined look to your food-storage pantry. Be sure to think outside the box. Rather than feeling the need to store the plastic wrap in a drawer, consider mounting it on a small curtain-type rod on a wall. Use one space for multiple things. For example, put the remnants of three types of pasta with similar cook times in the same container. Take the last few tea bags out of their boxes and place them in a small basket instead. Place the most frequently-used items at a convenient height, and remember to accommodate the little members of the household so they can help pack their own lunch.
Organization Getting organized is one thing, but staying organized is another. To ensure your space stays tidy, enlist the help of your family. Make sure everyone sees and understands the new protocols (No, the candles and batteries aren’t in the pantry anymore!). Grab the label machine and go crazy. Label containers, shelves and totes so everyone knows where things belong. Find an empty wall space, and hammer in a few nails. Place a chip clip on each one so open bags get a quick seal. Mount a plastic bag holder for easy storage and retrieval. Focus on solving common issues by keeping solutions easily accessible. The goal is to consider each square inch of your pantry area so you can use it efficiently. Taking the time to get it organized in the first place will help you maintain that organization in the future, saving you time, money, energy and frustration!
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