The key to cooking with ease is a well-organized pantry. If your pantry is well-stocked and accessible, you're more than halfway to planning a meal. A walk-in pantry is a huge bonus if your kitchen design has the space, but you can build effective pantry storage within kitchen cabinets too. No matter how big or small, a pantry should reduce kitchen clutter and effortlessly store everything you need. We dig deeper in our pantry sizing guide.

1. Integrate a Pantry Into Your Kitchen Design

If your remodel doesn't allow for a separate pantry, a dedicated space inside a cabinet can blend right in with the rest of the room. Outfit it with the storage accessories below for optimum, attractive storage.

2. Roll-Out Shelves

Roll-out shelves are a great solution for tight space. Organize categories and slide it all out for access. No more taking everything out to find something at the back. Pull-out pantry drawers offer the same benefit.

3. Tray Dividers

Tray dividers are a simple idea that takes care of so much clutter. Store baking sheets, cutting boards, and large platters on edge instead of piled.

4. Extra Shelf Space

If shelving is spaced far apart, shelf inserts add another level and double storage space. A basket that clips onto a shelf is a quick fix that gives more room for sundries. Separate by type: gluten-free, treats, school snacks.

5. Mix Up Your Storage

Adjustable shelving lets you place shelves where you need them. A clever option is to mix open and closed storage. Cabinet doors keep items that need darkness; open shelves hold items you want to access quickly or display.

6. Get Some Jars

Store dry ingredients in airtight jars away from heat and bright light. Jars are also a pretty addition to open shelving. Wide-mouthed containers are good for cereals, beans, and pasta. Clear containers are best so you can see how much you have. Label each one with contents and expiry date.

7. Look at Your Spices

Spices last longer in airtight containers, but avoid clear ones to protect them from light. Keep them away from heat. Many spice rack styles fit any pantry: narrow pull-outs, lazy Susans, pull-down racks, drawer inserts, magnetic strips for metal containers.

8. Make Space for Small Appliances

A walk-in pantry is great for storing small appliances, freeing up counter space. Mixers, slow cookers, and small appliances get a dedicated shelf. Awkwardly shaped or rarely used appliances can go up high. A larger pantry could even include workspace where you can plug in and use these appliances. Even without a walk-in pantry, kitchen cabinet storage can include deep drawers or shelves for small appliances.

9. Plan Your Lighting

Always consider lighting. If you don't currently have built-in lights, a battery option works as a temporary solution; make lighting a priority in your next kitchen design. Being able to see well makes the organization actually work.

10. Don't Sacrifice Style

The pantry is as important as any other space. For a walk-in, add personal touches like pictures or wallpaper. Try a chalkboard wall for notes. Experiment with color and the pantry becomes a gorgeous part of the home.

Talk through pantry options with a designer

If you're planning a kitchen and want to talk through pantry options, we'd love to talk.

Schedule a showroom visit at our 5,000 square foot showroom in Norwell. No pressure, just a real conversation about your home.

Transitions Kitchens, Baths & Remodeling
433 Washington St, Norwell, MA
(781) 871-0881