The ultimate do's and don'ts to kitchen cabinet organization.
Keeping an organized kitchen can be tricky. It takes patience and a plan to get your kitchen cabinet interiors looking like Khloe Kardashians. Once you get everything organized it takes your family's cooperation to keep the pantry tidy, this is no small feat.
That is where we come in, I have curated my ultimate list of do's and dont's to help guide you in your cabinet organization journey.
Do
Ensure easy stacking
Be sure that your storage containers are stackable. Every inch of space counts in your cabinets. By using stackable containers you are able to fit more items on the same shelf. Plus it keeps your containers neat and organized!
Don't
Overcrowd Cabinets
Though your cabinets are meant for storing items, that does not mean you should not be intentional in how you keep these things. Do your best to arrange items into rows and stack dishes and bowls.
Do
Choose transparency
For easy storage and quick inventory invest in transparent containers. Though you may be more tempted to opt for matte black or other colored containers--I suggest going for clear containers so you can see what you have and are running low on. Also, it is easier to mix and match clear bins which can aid in a more unified look!
Don't
USE ORIGINAL PRODUCT PACKAGING
Product packaging can make your cabinets or panty appear cluttered. Avoid bags or cardboard boxes when you can and decant dry ingredients in clear canisters. It is far easier to stack bags of chips and other loose items in a bin versus on a shelf where they are sure to fall out of place.
Do
SPEND TIME DECLUTTERING
For me, organization is all about being intentional. Be thoughtful with what you do and do not need--donate items to charity or sell the excess. Only keep things that you love, absolutely need, or add value to your life.
Don't
TRY TO ORGANIZE THE CLUTTER
Trying to organize clutter will just have you moving the items you don't need from one spot to another. This is how we all end up with that infamous "junk drawer." Though these items may stay out of your everyday gaze, they are hiding in these concealed spaces!
Do
PURGE OFTEN
Be aware of the items that you use often and keep only those. Get rid of duplicates or store them somewhere other than your kitchen if space is limited.
Don't
LET YOUR COUNTERS FILL UP
For your kitchen to best serve you, you need counter space! Conserve this space in your kitchen by storing away appliances, random decor, and baskets to make prepping and cooking easier!
Do
mAKE KID-FRIENDLY ITEMS ACCESSIBLE
If you have children, be sure that the snacks you want access to them are! Make a designated bin for kid-friendly snacks that they can easily reach.
Don't
LABEL EVERYTHING
Though this is more of a personal preference item, I find it unnecessary to label items that are obvious to distinguish from their clear container. If you can see that there are almonds in the jar, it isn't all that necessary to label them "almonds". However, if you have opaque canisters labeling is helpful!
What's the status of the inside of your kitchen cabinets?
- Keep the doors shut, they are filled to the brim!
- Not great, there are definitely some expired items in there
- Perfect, I am an organization lover!
now...Get to Organizing!
You've got all of the tools you need to start! Don't be discouraged, it is inevitable that your pantry will get disorganized after a while--but that's ok. Just remember to always put items back in their appropriate spot and get the whole house on board in keeping the cabinets in tip top shape. Taking a few minutes each month to ensure everything is up-to-date and in place will keep you from having to spend hours organizing ever again.