Have you ever stepped into someone's home and found a kitchen that was so meticulously organised? The kind where everything in the pantry has its place – every shelf is lined with clearly labelled containers, and every inch has a purpose.
If you haven't seen it in person, you've probably seen it online. After watching one too many kitchen organisation videos, I've been desperate to learn how to create a similar effect in my own home.
On a mission to transform my pantry design from chaos to clutter-free, I asked storage and decluttering experts to share the key items that make this space look and feel more put together.
1. Clear containers
Clear containers are one of the easiest, fastest and most affordable ways to make your pantry look more polished, especially if you have a walk-in pantry design. Instead of half-opened packets creating clutter, this simple addition creates a uniform look.
Not only do they look great and help you see exactly where everything is, but by choosing an airtight option (like the ones below from Amazon), you'll also extend the shelf life of your food and keep unwanted pests, such as pantry moths, at bay.
"My go-to recommendation is decanting everyday dry ingredients into clear airtight glass containers so contents are visible at a glance," says Jessica Roj, founder of BEKUNST. "This creates a cleaner aesthetic and also helps reduce food waste by making it easier to see what you already have."
Jessica Roj is the founder of BEKUNST, a British design brand creating sculptural luxury storage objects that combine natural stone and glass. With a background in Business & Management and Interior Design, she is passionate about how thoughtful design can transform everyday routines into moments of calm, order and intentional living.
Shop our favourite clear containers
These airtight glass jars feature silicone lids that help keep food fresh.
Perfect for storing pasta and cereal, these long jars are made from BPA-free glass with bamboo lids.
2. Labelled categories
It might seem like overkill, but organising your pantry by category and adding labels will make cooking feel easier – especially when someone is helping you and isn’t familiar with your kitchen.
"I recommend grouping ingredients by category, such as baking essentials, grains, pasta and snacks, and keeping the most frequently used items at eye level," says Jessica Roj.
"Simple additions like labels, tiered shelf organisers and turntables for oils and condiments can make a significant difference to both accessibility and everyday functionality."
These pre-printed pantry labels make it easy to find what you're looking for.
3. Adjustable shelves
Adjustable shelves are a must-have in every pantry idea – especially for those looking to optimise storage in a small kitchen pantry. Not only can they be removed for easy cleaning, but because they can be moved up and down, they can be tailored to suit your needs and the items you buy.
"I believe these are truly overlooked in most organising discussions," says Justin Brown, storage expert at Timber Shelves. "I was able to fit eight tins on a shelf in my pantry, but with the addition of risers, I now fit 14 tins on a shelf without any cramped areas or difficult to reach spots."
"They double the usable space on a single shelf without any installation at all, which works particularly well for canned goods and spice jars that would otherwise sit in one flat layer."
Justin Brown is a shelving and storage specialist and the Founder of Timber Shelves, building custom solutions for kitchens, pantries and utility spaces. He redesigned his pantry last year using a combination of solid timber shelving and several key organising products.
Shop adjustable shelving
This versatile shelving unit features adjustable shelves and height, making it custom-fitted to your space.
This four-tier storage unit ensures everything has its place, thanks to its adjustable shelves.
4. Pull-out drawer system
If you're lucky enough to have a large pantry, it's well worth investing in a pull-out drawer system, as shown in the photo above, to optimise the available space and make everything easier to reach.
"A typical 600mm deep cupboard often has its back third sitting unused because it's too far to reach comfortably. A pull-out system brings that entire depth to arm's reach instead," says Justin Brown.
"I made one for my pantry out of solid oak. For me, this is the upgrade that made the biggest difference in how the pantry actually works day to day."
Featuring three sizes – small, medium, and large – these pull-out drawers make use of the entire cabinet space.
5. Door-mounted shelving
I dream of having a walk-in pantry, but for now, my simple cupboards will have to do. If you're organising a smaller space too, I highly recommend door-mounted shelving for storing smaller items like condiments.
My multi-tiered rack (like the one below) is conveniently placed in the cupboard beneath my hob, making it easy to reach for my favourite herbs and spices while I cook, rather than letting them get lost at the back of the cupboard.
While I use mine as a spice rack, you could also use it to store salt and pepper shakers, cling film, foil, or any other kitchen essentials that you reach for regularly.
These budget-friendly shelves can be mounted to any door using either no-drill adhesive strips or screws (included).
These simple ideas prove that you don't need loads of space – or spend a fortune – to achieve an organised pantry.
For more advice, read our guide on how to design a pantry in a small kitchen or see how our content director created a built-in pantry for just £350.
