25 Easy And Clever Kitchen Pantry Ideas

Your kitchen is spotless. Your counters are shiny, and your fridge is immaculate. Take a peek in your pantry, though, and you may find a different situation. It can be tough to keep things neat and tidy, especially when they’re hidden behind closed doors. The kitchen pantry is an oft-accessed space where items are continually moved to and fro.

Need a bit of organization inspiration? Keep reading to discover our favorite kitchen pantry ideas.

1. Use A Lazy Susan

lazy susan for pantry

While I don’t have a pantry configuration that requires one, I’ve found plenty of use for my lazy Susan in the fridge. If you’re stuck with a pantry that has deep inaccessible shelves, a rotating platform can help you reach hard-to-find items. Lazy Susans are also useful for pantry corners where it can be awkward to stock stuff.

2. Use Labels

Label everything! Whether bins filled with snacks or shelves packed with baking supplies, the labels will help keep you organized. They’re also helpful for visitors navigating your pantry.

3. Stock Dry Goods In Airtight Jars

grain in jars
Denise Johnson / Unsplash

Keeping dry goods in airtight containers keeps away pests that wreak havoc on your pantry. Stuff stays fresher in sealed containers, too.

Related Post: A Beginner’s Guide To Buying In Bulk

I recommend selecting glass jars because they’re durable, attractive, transparent, and don’t transfer flavors.

4. Organize Your Spices

I’ve always struggled with spice organization. I tried transferring them from store-bought pouches to super cute magnetic jars, but what finally worked was keeping them in a separate drawer outside of my cupboard.

The pouches are now organized in an index-card fashion inside a plastic bin, but if you choose to organize your spices, find a way that works for you. There are plenty of great ideas online including this clearly labeled array of jarred spices.

5. Add Another Level

kitchen pantry ideas

You can find inexpensive wire shelving units on Amazon for a steal. Some shelves even have handy drawers for storing small snacks and treats. If there’s a lot of space between your shelves, adding vertical storage options is a great solution.

6. Take Advantage Of Your Door

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Wowzers! I was sipping (chugging) my coffee this am, scrolling the @goodhousekeeping feed and this beauty by @comfortandgracehomedesign stopped me in my tracks! Everything about it from the mason jars 😍 to the affordable bins 😍 but mostly, undershelf lighting 🤯 – What’s your favorite thing about this space? – – – – #pantry #organization #pantryorganization #organizinghacks #professionalorganizer #organizer #organized #getorganized #stayorganized #organizeyourlife #organizedhome #homeorganization #homeorganizer #organizedpantry #kitchendecor #kitchendesign #beorganized #hacks #kitcheninspo #kitcheninspiration #kitchenrenovation #kitchensofinstagram #pantrygoals #organizedkitchen #organizar #organise #organizedhome #organizedliving

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My pantry is fairly small but features fantastic pull out drawers that allow me to access the back portions of deep shelves.

Related Post: 19 Small Kitchen Tables For Conserving Space

The configuration doesn’t allow me to utilize the back of my door, but if you have that option, I highly recommend you take advantage of the empty space.

7. Stock Cans Sideways

Storing cans can be awkward, especially in a tiny pantry. Try a DIY mounted can organizer like this one or use specially designed bins to stock them on their side, save space, and avoid a tumbling cupboard avalanche.

8. Use Drawers

If you’re building a new pantry from scratch, adding drawers is something to consider. If you have a deep cupboard (like mine), slide-out drawers are a must-have.

9. Add Some Bins

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Tips On Using THE Acrylic Bin. So these InterDesign bins come in many sizes. Make sure to measure your shelves depth before shopping! . Group foods into “like” categories. These bins help KEEP things in their categories which helps you be able to find things quickly! You want smaller or more narrow ones for snacks you want to stand up and see. Larger ones to store jars and boxed foods. . You can find a HUGE selection at The Container Store, or Bed, Bath and Beyond. But can also find them for a good price at Walmart, Home Goods and TJMAX. . Dollar Stores also have containers that would work for the same purpose. Just be concistant on the containers you decide to use. Square is always better than round if space is an issue. #Pantryhelp #soorganized

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I’m a fan of clear plastic bins for organizing things like spices, rice, and other pouch-bound foods. Use them for granola bars, oatmeal packets, and small food items. Most plastic bins are also a perfect fit for the fridge.

10. Utilize Baskets

A bit less practical, baskets add a pretty touch to a pantry. They’re easy to find in large sizes, too, so they’re great for storing bulkier fare.

11. Group Like Items

Whether you decide to label your shelves or organize like items in bins or baskets, keeping things separated by category will help you stay organized over time. Not sure where to start? Keep baking ingredients together, put snacks somewhere else, and set dry goods like pasta, rice, and beans next to each other.

12. Keep a List

Organization isn’t just about keeping foods in pretty and practical containers. Once your pantry is neat and tidy, it’s easy for it to become cluttered again. Stay on top of things with a chalkboard or dry erase board inside of the door (or on the outside — depending on your style) and keep track of items you’re missing (or have plenty of on hand).

13. Move Cans To Eye Level 

Avoid storing canned foods on the highest shelf or at the very bottom of your pantry. At eye level, you’ll have an easier time distinguishing between labels.

14. Store Cereal, Pasta, And Rice In Slim Bins

oxo cereal storage bins

Use slim bins to store dried goods. They’re easy to pour, take up limited space, and accommodate various pasta shapes.

15. Add A Pegboard

If you have a large pantry and need space to organize tools and cookware, install a pegboard for added wall storage. This pantry utilizes otherwise unused wall space and adds a functional grab-and-go area for pots and pans.

16. Use Wire Baskets

Love the idea of wicker baskets but hate not being able to see all your pantry contents? Use wire baskets to stock snacks and other packaged goodies like single-serving chip bags and breakfast bars.

17. Add Drawers 

Did you know that you can add slide-out drawers to pantry shelving? Drawers are great for keeping items that can’t be taken out of their packaging which tones down visual clutter. 

18. Put Most-Used Items At Eye Level 

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You asked – I of course came through for you! 😍 . . One of the harder parts of this “gig” is knowing what you guys want to see/know. If you have a question please ask! My knowledge is all yours! Just please don’t ask what 5×2 is, I will have to get a calculator. . . Anyways, my dear friend asked if I could show pantry organization. YES! I shared a few pictures a few weeks ago of pantry layouts that I love, but this go round I am sharing products that actually organize your pantry! . . I am sharing all of the goods in stories and I will save it to my highlights so you can always come back to it! . . The basics of an organized pantry are pretty simple. Here are the ones I live by and make it the easiest to achieve that clean, organized look. . . Number 1 – Keep the containers the same throughout. They can be different sizes if needed, but keep the style the same. You can add two or three different styles – just keep it simple. I like to mix clear containers with wire baskets. The clear containers make it easy to see what is in it and it lets me know when I am almost out of something. . . Number 2 – Dump the contents of a box into a container. This makes it look great but more importantly it shows how much you have in it. There is nothing worse than reaching your hand into the last cookie box and coming up with nothing. . . Number 3 – Go crazy with the labels. You know where it goes but does everyone else? The quickest way to make your pantry unorganized is a thing called family. Most of us use the pantry multiple times a day and so does the rest of your family. If you and our family know where to return everything, it will make your life easier! . . Those are the basics – Go check out my stories and then my highlights to see what products I love for organization! @fliss has a great example of what an organized pantry looks like! . . #pantryorganization #pantrydecor #organizeallthethings #clearcontainers #organizationideas #cleandesign #amazonproducts #productsilove #ourorganizedlife #tremontonutah #tremontonutahdesigner #boxelderdesigner #familylife #amazonproductsilove #weareorganized #organizedchaos

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Organize your pantry according to your routine. Do you cook lentil soups in your Instant Pot at least once a week? Make sure your dried beans are close at hand. Are you a frequent baker? Keep your baking ingredients within easy reach. Avoid sticking frequently used foodstuffs at the top of your pantry.

19. Play With Magnets

Magnets aren’t only for the fridge. Use this handy magnet strip to hold your spices. They’re great for pantries with unused space on a wall or door.

20. Add Lights To Your Pantry

Even the smallest pantry or cupboard will benefit from the addition of puck lights. Add inexpensive battery-powered lighting to pantry shelving, and you’ll spend less time furiously searching for items in the dark recesses of a cabinet.

21. Choose Uniform Storage Accessories 

This is less of an organization tip and more of a suggestion to enhance visual appeal. Buy storage containers from the same brand and line to keep things uniform and create a beautiful pantry.

22. Stock A Step Stool

If you have shelving that reaches to the ceiling, or you’re shorter than the average person, a step stool is a handy accessory that ensures you always have access to every inch of your food storage space. Small step stools are also helpful for kids.

23. Get A Handle On Your Tupperware

Those with spacious pantries may decide to use the area to stash their food storage containers. Don’t just toss everything inside willy-nilly.

Related Post: 10 Smart Small Kitchen Ideas

Organize your Tupperware so that everything has its place. Stack similarly shaped containers and toss out anything that doesn’t have a lid (or bottom).

24. Stick On Ready-Made Decals

Not interested in creating your own labels? Use pretty, ready-made decals to label all of your pantry items.

25. Buy A Rolling Cart

If you have a walk-in pantry but still find yourself struggling to find room for everything, rolling carts are an excellent add-on for your space. Those with tiny food storage cupboards might use a rolling cart as an extra storage spot, too. Apartment bakers can store frequently used baking tools and ingredients on their cart, and roll it out as needed.

Why Should I Organize My Kitchen Pantry?

Although the array of perfectly organized pantries on Instagram is incredibly appealing, organization isn’t only about esthetics. Keeping your cupboard or pantry tidy prevents spoilage and waste. Having everything within easy reach and view means you’re more likely to use that box of oatmeal before it goes stale.

A well-kept pantry can also help with your monthly grocery budget. If you’re able to see everything clearly, you’re less likely to buy accidental doubles or purchase items you don’t need.

Transferring products to properly sealed jars also prevents pest infestations and food going stale.

What Not To Put In A Kitchen Pantry

If you’ve got a roomy walk-in pantry, there’s nary a foodstuff that doesn’t fit. But those with small pantries need to be careful about what they stock. Avoid storing bulk items in your pantry if you have limited space. Store beverages (e.g., soda cans and bottles) elsewhere and save space for dry goods.


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