The pantry is one area in the home that must be large enough to hold the countless amount of dry goods that we use for cooking. When designing the perfect pantry you have to consider a layout that will provide you with the best space while at the same time keeping everything organized. The more organized it is the less time you will spend in search for the item you need.
Shelves
Shelves are the most important feature to use in your pantry. These shelves need to be long enough to hold large and many items – but not so large that things get lost and eventually forgotten. Try to designate each shelf for soups, baking goods, and spices. This will make it easier for you to know exactly where it all is and where to put it back. Some shelves may have holes in them. Lay down special lining that will keep them from falling through.
Drawers
Drawers can be very helpful and keep you from storing certain foods on the ground. The slide out basket drawers are the most useful and are perfect for storing potatoes, onions, and bread. Inside of the baskets lay down a piece of Lucite or plywood to help create an even surface. You can find smaller sized baskets that are more ideal for storing your spices.
Stackable Storage Bins
Even if you have plenty of shelves to use these storage bins will help to keep everything organized. Too often we will throw things back inside of the panty and in no order. Before we realize what has happened the entire pantry has become cluttered and chaotic. Also these bins can be used as a safe and secure place to hold your flour and sugar. They are low priced and help to keep bugs out of your pantry.
Hanging Shelves
If you have a smaller sized pantry and need extra room then this is a great way to get it. These usually do not cost more then $40 and fit over the door leading to the pantry. They provide shelves where you can store your cereals and other snack items. They can be as long or as short as you need them – but are not so big that you cannot close the door without knocking something down inside.