cupboards & pantries, oh my!

 
Drawers & doors are scary beasts that tend to inspire otherwise tidy people to amass hidden messes. Pantries, or kitchen cupboards, can be the most dangerous. The very purpose of them being there is to put things in them. Here are some tips via yours truly & real simple on transforming your pantry into a more functional place...

The Mission:

Simplify, simplify. Restrict the pantry to (mostly) food and paper goods, and make it easier to see and grab the contents and feed hungry mouths ASAP.

The Plan:

• Purge. Anything that doesn't belong is ruthlessly weeded out, consigned either to the trash bin or to an appropriate closet or cupboard.    
• Consolidate and clarify.Everything that comes in awkward or space-hogging boxes or bags―pasta, cereal, chips―is poured into transparent bulk plastic containers that store foods compactly and let you see immediately what's inside. 
• Organize. Sort items according to categories that will help you you use & replenish your pantry.

Products can help too; shelf expanders can create an extra layer for storage while jars or clear plastic containers can keep your pantry inventory more visible. 

{photo via sunset magazine}