So it’s a new year, and you’ve set a resolution to get organized. You decide to start with your pantry—a logical choice, considering it’s one of the most high-traffic areas in your home. You excitedly head to the store and buy a bunch of cute organizing bins, only to realize they don’t fit. Defeated, you throw everything back in and give up. Sound familiar? Have no fear; I’m here to help.

Calling in a professional organizer might not be in everyone’s budget, but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with chaos. Let me walk you through the same steps I use to create beautifully functional pantries—steps you can follow to tackle your own space.

1. Pull Everything Out

Yes, everything. Removing every single item from your pantry might sound daunting, but trust me, it’s the only way to truly assess what you’re working with. You’ll probably find a few surprises in the process (hello, expired spices from 2016!).

2. Edit Your Inventory

Before you start putting things back, take a good hard look at what you have. Toss anything expired, donate unopened items you’ll never use, and be honest about whether you’re really going to cook with that one weird ingredient you bought for a recipe one time.

3. Categorize Like Items

Group similar items together. Canned goods, snacks, baking supplies, grains—you get the idea. This step helps you see how much space each category will need and makes it easier to find what you need later.

4. Measure Your Space

Resist the urge to buy bins until you know exactly what you’re working with. Take detailed measurements of your pantry’s shelves and note any tricky areas. Knowing the dimensions will save you time, money, and frustration when it comes to choosing storage solutions.

5. Shop Smart for Storage

Once you’ve measured and categorized, it’s time to shop. Choose bins and containers that make sense for your family. Do you want to decant snacks and staples into matching containers for a cohesive look? Or do you need clear bins so everyone (including the kids) can easily see what’s inside? The key is to strike a balance between function and aesthetics.

6. Strategize Placement

Not all pantry items deserve prime real estate. Keep everyday essentials like snacks, breakfast items, and cooking oils within easy reach. Reserve higher or harder-to-access shelves for less frequently used items, like bulk purchases or holiday baking supplies. Be sure to designate a space for backstock—those extra items you keep on hand to replenish your main supplies. This will help you avoid overbuying and keep your pantry looking neat.

The Neatify Difference

When I organize a pantry, I put a lot of thought into selecting the right bins and layout for the family I’m working with. No two households are the same, and your pantry should reflect your specific needs. Whether it’s choosing containers that match your decor or ensuring functionality for a family with young kids, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.

If the thought of tackling this project still feels overwhelming, that’s where Neatify comes in. I’d love to help you create a pantry that works for your family and looks amazing while doing it. Because getting organized doesn’t just reduce stress—it transforms your home into a space you’ll love.

Happy organizing!

New Year, New Pantry: How to Organize Like a Pro