If you’ve got an open shelve pantry, a teeny-tiny cabinet, or something kinda in-between, keeping it organized is straight-up chaos, right?
I mean, every time I blink, and boom—spices everywhere, random pasta boxes, and somehow, I can never find the olive oil.
But no more.
I’ve pulled together the best hacks, tips, and tricks that are about to change the game.
We’re talking the best ways to stash pasta, how to display all your oils and sauces (without knocking them over), and even some genius wall storage ideas.
Trust me, your pantry won’t even know what hit it. Let’s get it organized, fam!
Small Walk In Pantry Layout Tips
Who knew organizing snacks could be this satisfying, right?
If you’re ready to upgrade your pantry game and make it look Pinterest-perfect, here are some layout tips that’ll make your small space super functional and totally aesthetic.
Let’s go!
1. Label Everything
Let’s be real, playing the guessing game with random jars or containers is not fun.
I’ve learned that labeling everything, from flour to pasta, makes life so much easier.
You can use cute label makers or even just a simple marker, but the key is to make sure everything has a name.
That way, you’ll never have to deal with flour-covered countertops because you grabbed the wrong jar. Trust me, it’s a life-saver
2. Put the Healthiest Snacks at Eye Level
Ever noticed that you’re way more likely to grab a snack when it’s right in front of you?
Same. I started putting all my healthy snacks—like granola bars or nuts—at eye level, and it actually helps me make better choices.
When I open the pantry, boom, there they are. It’s like I’m tricking myself into being healthier, and I’m not mad about it.
3. Hit the Dollar Store for Bins and Baskets
You don’t need to spend a ton of cash to get organized.
Seriously, the dollar store is my secret weapon for affordable bins and baskets. I stock up on all shapes and sizes so I can store everything neatly, from snacks to canned goods.
It’s cheap, it works, and it keeps my pantry looking like I’ve got my life together (even if I don’t, haha).
4. Group Like with Like
I used to have things all over the place—pasta on one shelf, random cans on another. It was chaos.
Now, I group like with like. All my pasta lives together, canned goods in one spot, and snacks in their own zone.
It sounds simple, but it makes such a difference when you’re trying to find something fast. Plus, it just looks way more organized.
5. Follow the FIFO Rule (First In, First Out)
Okay, confession time: I used to find expired cans hidden at the back of my pantry all the time.
Gross, right?
That’s when I started following the FIFO rule—First In, First Out. When I buy new stuff, it goes to the back, and I use the older stuff first. This way, nothing gets wasted and no more nasty surprises when I’m cleaning out my pantry.
6. Avoid Buying Ingredients for Just One Recipe
I’ve learned the hard way not to buy ingredients that only work for one recipe. I mean, how many times have I bought something fancy for one dish, and it just sat there forever?
Now, I make sure everything I buy can be used in at least two or three meals. Not only does it save space, but it also means less food waste and more versatility when I’m cooking.
7. Put Small Appliances on a Rolling Cart
Small appliances can eat up your space. Pop them on a rolling cart so you can stash them away when you don’t need them and roll them out when you do.
8. Hang Baskets from the Wall
Running out of shelf space?
Same.
So I started hanging baskets from the walls of my pantry.
It’s a total game-changer for things like snacks, onions, or even produce. Plus, it adds extra storage in spots you wouldn’t usually use.
9. Stock Up on Uniform Containers
I used to have a mishmash of containers, and it just looked messy.
Now, I’ve switched to uniform containers.
Not only do they look super sleek, but they also save space and keep everything fresh. Plus, it makes everything look so much more organized, like one of those pantries you see on Pinterest.
10. Shop Your Pantry Before You Meal Plan
Before I even think about meal planning, I always “shop” my pantry first.
You’d be surprised how much stuff you already have that can be turned into a full meal. By checking what’s already in my pantry, I save money and avoid buying things I don’t need. Plus, it helps me get creative with what I’ve got!
This way, the points are not only practical but also add a personal touch that makes the post feel more relatable.
Pantry Organization
Looking to get your pantry in order?
These creative tips will help you maximize your space, no matter how big or small your pantry is.
With clever storage solutions and smart organizing tricks, you’ll be able to keep everything tidy and easy to find.
Let’s tackle the clutter and turn your pantry into a perfectly organized space!
11. Use Lazy Susans for Easy Access
A lazy Susan is a total game-changer for those hard-to-reach corners in your pantry.
Just spin it around to grab oils, sauces, or spices without knocking everything over.
It keeps things tidy and ensures you can see everything at a glance.
12. Invest in Clear Stackable Drawers
Instead of just using bins, try clear stackable drawers.
These drawers maximize vertical space, making it easier to store smaller items like snack bags or packets while keeping them visible.
Plus, they slide in and out for quick access.
13. Use Door Space for Spice Racks
The back of your pantry door is prime real estate.
Install slim spice racks or small shelves to hold spices, seasonings, or even condiments. It frees up shelf space and keeps those small items from getting lost.
14. Use Chalkboard Paint for a Grocery List
Turn the inside of your pantry door into a functional chalkboard by painting it with chalkboard paint.
You can write your grocery list or reminders directly on it. It’s a fun and functional way to keep track of what you’re running low on.
15. Add Clip-On Baskets for Extra Storage
Clip-on baskets that attach to pantry shelves can create extra storage space for smaller items like snack bars, spices, or even produce like garlic and onions.
It’s perfect for using up that wasted vertical space.
16. Store Bulk Items in Stackable Containers
For things you buy in bulk, like rice, flour, or beans, try storing them in large, stackable containers.
They keep everything fresh and help you see exactly how much you have left. Plus, it makes your pantry look sleek and organized.
17. Use Tension Rods for Dividing Baking Sheets
If your baking sheets, cutting boards, or trays are constantly falling over, use tension rods to create dividers on a pantry shelf.
They’ll keep everything upright and easy to grab without a messy pile.
18. Create a Snack Station for Kids
Set up a low, easy-access snack station for kids with baskets or bins that they can reach.
This way, they can grab their own snacks, and it keeps things organized. You could even add labels or small containers with portioned-out snacks.
19. Rotate Seasonal Items
Seasonal items like holiday baking supplies or barbecue tools can take up space when not in use.
Store them in bins and rotate them with the seasons. This keeps your everyday essentials easy to access while freeing up space during off-seasons.
20. Add a Magnetic Strip for Metal Containers
Install a magnetic strip on a pantry wall to hold small metal containers, like spice tins or other small items.
It’s an easy way to save space while keeping those little items organized and off the shelves.
Small Pantry Organization
Having a small pantry, or no storage in your kitchen is hard! I should know!
I struggle with my very tiny small pantry. But over the years, I’ve learned a hack to two.
21. Use Clear Shoe Organizers for Snacks
Hang a clear shoe organizer on the back of your pantry door to hold snacks, packets, or even small kitchen tools. The pockets are perfect for keeping everything visible and within reach.
22. Install Under-Shelf Baskets
Under-shelf baskets slide onto the bottom of existing shelves to create extra space underneath. They’re great for storing smaller items like seasoning packets or napkins without taking up shelf space.
23. Store Cans in Stacking Soda Can Dispensers
Those stackable soda can dispensers aren’t just for drinks—they’re a perfect fit for canned goods too. They keep cans organized, easy to grab, and make the most of limited shelf space.
24. Use Risers for Canned Goods
Add risers or tiered shelves to your pantry so you can see all your canned goods at once. No more digging through cans piled on top of each other—everything is visible and easy to grab.
25. Hang Measuring Cups Inside the Cabinet Door
Stick a few adhesive hooks on the inside of your pantry or cabinet doors to hang measuring cups and spoons. It saves drawer space and keeps them handy for whenever you need them.
26. Use Magazine Holders for Bottles
Turn magazine holders sideways and use them to store unused water bottles. They’re slim, stackable, and fit easily on shelves without taking up much space.
27. Mount a Pegboard on an Empty Wall
If you have an empty wall in or near your pantry, mount a pegboard. You can hang baskets, kitchen tools, or even spices on it, making the most of vertical space and keeping everything organized.
28. Use Lazy Susans in Tight Corners
Lazy Susans are perfect for tight corners where things tend to get lost. Use them to store condiments, oils, or spices, and just give it a spin to find exactly what you need.
29. Stack Wire Shelves for Extra Levels
Add stackable wire shelves inside your pantry to create more vertical space. This is great for items that don’t stack well, like boxed goods or jars, giving you double the shelf room in a small space.
Pantry Storage Inspo
I hope you found these pantry organization ideas helpful for your own small kitchen pantry.
I know I will try some of these for my pantry! For more organization, cleaning and home decor tips, follow me on Pinterest!
