7 Pantry Organisation Mistakes You Might Be Making (and How to Fix Them)

An organised pantry doesn’t just look good — it saves you time, reduces waste, and makes meal prep easier. But even the most well-intentioned organisers can fall into a few common traps that lead to clutter creeping back in.

Let’s take a look at the pantry mistakes you might be making (and how to fix them for good!).

1. Mixing Everyday Items with Back-Stock

One of the biggest culprits behind pantry chaos is keeping open packets and extras all in the same spot. You end up reaching for the wrong thing, forgetting what’s already open, and before you know it — you have three bags of flour on the go.

Fix it:
Create a clear separation between everyday items and overflow or back-stock. Keep the everyday items in accessible tubs or containers, and store extras higher up or in a labelled basket or tub so you always know where to find refills.

2. Not Decanting Into Clear Containers

Leaving everything in original packaging makes it hard to see what you have. It also creates a messy, mismatched look — not to mention stale food once packets aren’t sealed properly.

Fix it:
Use airtight containers for dry goods such as pasta, rice, cereal, and baking ingredients. You’ll instantly see when you’re running low, your food stays fresher, and your shelves look beautifully uniform.

3. Ignoring Labels

Even if your containers look great, skipping labels can quickly undo all your good work. Family members won’t know where things belong, and the system won’t stay organised.

Fix it:
Label everything! It doesn’t have to be fancy — but clear, consistent labels mean everyone knows where to find (and return) each item.

4. Overcrowding Shelves

Trying to fit too much into your pantry is a fast track to clutter. When items are jammed in, you can’t see what you have and things get lost or expire before being used.

Fix it:
Embrace negative space. Leave room to grow or adjust your system. Group like-with-like and use baskets or tubs to contain categories such as snacks, baking, sauces, or breakfast items. If your space is overflowing, it might be time for a quick declutter before restocking.

5. Not Using Vertical Space

So many pantries waste valuable real estate by only using shelf surfaces. That vertical space between shelves is gold!

Fix it:
Add risers or racks for cans, turntables for sauces and oils, stackable containers for staple items and stackable baskets for snacks or produce. If you have deep shelves, use clear pull-out drawers so nothing gets lost at the back.

6. Keeping Too Much Variety

We all love options — but too many types of cereal, snacks, or pasta shapes can make your pantry feel overwhelming and harder to maintain.

Fix it:
Streamline your staples. Choose a few go-to items your household loves and buy those consistently. It’s simpler to manage, easier to store, and makes shopping faster.

7. Skipping Regular Maintenance

Even the best system needs upkeep. Without occasional check-ins, expired products pile up and baskets start to lose their structure.

Fix it:
Schedule a pantry refresh every few months. Check dates, wipe shelves, and top up containers. It only takes 10–15 minutes and keeps everything looking (and working) beautifully.

Final Thoughts

A well-organised pantry isn’t about perfection — it’s about creating a system that makes your everyday life easier.
Avoid these common mistakes, and you’ll have a space that’s functional, easy to maintain, and genuinely enjoyable to use.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or just doing a quick tidy, our range of airtight containers, baskets, and labels can help you create a pantry you’ll love opening every day.