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
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.
Find it at Amazon 2. Use Labels View this post on Instagram
Here is your motivation to get organized….Thank you @talentedkitchen for the perfect pantry labels! My pantry is complete! . . . #pantry #pantrygoals #labels #pantrylabels #farmhousedecor #farmhouse #modernfarmhouse #kitchengoals #organize #homedecor #food #snacks #diy #farmhousecharm #decorinspo #countryhome #mycountryhome #farmhousestyle #rustic #rusticdecor #farmhousefeatures #farmhousecharm #farmhousekitchen @farmhouse.charm @farmhousefeatures

A post shared by Gabrielle (@_gabrielle.anna_) on Jan 21, 2020 at 4:19pm PST

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 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 View this post on Instagram
Spice jars and labels from @talentedkitchen streamlining this kitchen cabinet. Adding a riser here to make all spices accessible. Swipe right for the full before and after.

A post shared by Luxury Interior Organizing (@amindfulmethod) on Dec 13, 2019 at 7:56am PST

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
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.
Find it at Amazon 6. Take Advantage Of Your Door View this post on Instagram
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

A post shared by Professional Organizer (@livecomposed) on Feb 15, 2020 at 9:13am PST

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 View this post on Instagram
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

A post shared by Organizer Tracy Bowers (@organizewithtracy) on Mar 7, 2018 at 10:21am PST

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.
Find it at Amazon 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 View this post on Instagram
This pantry is an absolute dream Even though organization is important, let’s face it, our everyday busy lives makes it nearly impossible. @beautyforasheshome has tons of great, easy ideas and tricks to keep your pantry and home organized. Read more on her blog below: https://bit.ly/2wHCHV #pantrygoals #pantryorganization #dreampantry #realtalk

A post shared by Reggie Resper (@reggie_the_realtor_) on Feb 25, 2020 at 10:43am PST

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
Use slim bins to store dried goods. They’re easy to pour, take up limited space, and accommodate various pasta shapes.
Find it at Amazon 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 View this post on Instagram
Without a baking storage setup like this, we would crumble! Add some farmhouse flare to your pantry with our gorgeous wire baskets and canisters. . . . . . #mdesign #solutionswithstyle #mdesignhomedecor #homedecor #organized #getorganized #organizing #organizer #pantrymakeover #pantrygoals #snackpantry #kitchenrenovation #pantrystorage #kitchensofinstagram #organize #professionalorganizer #instadesign #declutter #storage #storageideas #storagesolutions #kitchenremodel #pantryorganization #pantryenvy #pantrygoals #pantrymakeover #pantry #organize #cabinet #cabinetgoals

A post shared by mDesign (@mdesign) on Nov 27, 2019 at 1:21pm PST

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.
Find it at Amazon 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  View this post on Instagram
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

A post shared by Hey Friends! I'm Kristy! (@k.design.studio) on Feb 25, 2020 at 6:28am PST

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.
Find it at Amazon 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.
Find it at Amazon 21. Choose Uniform Storage Accessories  View this post on Instagram
Swipe for the before! We love using these bins from @thecontainerstore because they range from $2.99-$5.99 Talk about budget friendly! • • • • #TON #theorganizednest #TONpantry #organizationalservices

A post shared by The Organized Nest (@organized_nest) on Feb 23, 2020 at 8:56am PST

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 View this post on Instagram
A little before and after of organizing those pesky containers! It’s really easy to let them go wild in your cabinets but look at how much space there is now that they are contained!! My client will have a much easier time finding and reaching what she needs. • • • #professionalorganizer #ncorganizer #828isgreat #kitchenorganization #tupperwareorganization #pyrex #pyrexorganization #ilovemyjob

A post shared by Jenna Kappes (@simplystorednc) on Jul 23, 2019 at 1:54pm PDT

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 View this post on Instagram
Have you been dreaming of a pantry makeover? Our Pantry Labels could be the perfect way to get your pantry streamlined, sorted and organised. They are available in your choice of font and colour and can be fully customised to suit your individual needs (did someone say ‘Dried Fenugreek’?). Or you can grab one of our pre-set Pantry Packs! Available in a 20 or 40 pack! #easypeasy Order yours today and be labelling your pantry next weekend! #yesplease Containers are from @kmartaus

A post shared by Home Organisation Labels (@thelabelstoreau) on Oct 25, 2019 at 2:30pm PDT

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.
#Kitchen #Living