The perks of an Insta-worthy pantry extend beyond organisation
Whipping your pantry into Insta-worthy shape will do more than attract a few likes – it can boost your health and bank balance too. Here’s how.
If your pantry is currently giving off more “pandemonium” than “perfection” vibes, it might be time to do something about it.
For starters, research shows clutter-filled spaces aren’t good for us, affecting everything from anxiety levels and sleep to the brain’s ability to focus.
But getting your pantry into good shape will deliver some specific perks.
“A well-organised pantry means knowing exactly where things are when you need them,” founder of professional organising service One Organised Woman, Melissa Brown, says.
“It also helps you know exactly what food items you currently have, so when you’re shopping you don’t buy unnecessarily, which of course saves you time and money.”
Health benefits of an organised pantry
Clinical nutritionist and KYH Nutrition founder Andrea Zapantis says an organised pantry may even encourage healthier eating behaviours.
“It’s often said that we are a reflection of our surroundings, and this holds true for our eating habits and nutrition as well,” Andrea says.
“When our pantry and living environments are organised and in sync with our routines, we’re most likely to maintain a sense of control and balance in our lives, particularly when it comes to our diet.
Plus, Andrea says meal planning is associated with healthier eating habits.
“An organised pantry makes it easier to plan and prepare meals by providing a clean inventory of ingredients.”
5 ways to organise your pantry
Here’s how to get your pantry sorted – and keep it that way – no matter how big or small it is.
Empty and clean it
“Firstly, take everything out of the pantry,” Melissa says.
“Using the opportunity to throw away anything that’s out of date, and group like items together on the bench.
“Then clean your pantry shelves thoroughly.
“I like to wipe mine down with diluted tea tree oil – it’s naturally antibacterial and helps to repel pantry moths and silverfish.”
Be savvy with storage options
“Decant staples like flour, sugar, breadcrumbs, and nuts and seeds into clear cannisters, like recycled glass food jars, and label them,” Melissa says.
“And use open-top storage baskets for snack items.
“Lazy-Susan-style turntables are also invaluable, so buy a couple if you can.
“They’re great for oils, vinegars and breakfast spreads.”
Restock the shelves strategically
“Return items to the pantry, storing and grouping like items together,” Melissa says.
“For example put baking goods together in one spot and pasta, rice and noodles in another.”
Place healthy staples on eye-level shelves
Andrea says nutrient-dense, versatile pantry staples can provide a foundation for well-rounded meals.
“And research suggests that visibility and accessibility of food can influence consumption, so an organised pantry can make these healthy pantry staples more likely to be chosen for meals and snacks,” she says.
Stock up on basics like wholegrains, such as quinoa, brown rice and oats; legumes and pulses like lentils and chickpeas; canned fish such as canned tuna, salmon or sardines; and nut butters and nuts, and store them at eye level so they’re the first thing you see when you open the pantry.
Keep tweaking
Melissa says even the most organised pantry will need some attention occasionally.
“If you find a particular area of the pantry is getting messy, consider why it’s happening and whether the items could be stored differently or whether it’s access that’s the problem,” she says.
“And try not to overshop, so your pantry isn’t bursting at the seams.”
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