How to Clean Out Your Pantry in 4 Easy Steps (2024)

Equipment / Tools

Materials

How to Clean Out Your Pantry

1. Empty the Pantry Shelves

   Take everything out of the pantry. If you don't have counter space close by, bring over a table or place some cardboard boxes on the floor to hold everything.

   Tip

   Get a head start on the sorting step by placing similar items together as you unload the pantry.

   

2. Clean the Pantry Storage Space

   • Use a vacuum with a hose and brush or a handheld vacuum to suction away crumbs and cobwebs.
   • Mix some warm water and a tablespoon of an all-purpose cleaner in a small bucket or bowl. Dip a microfiber cloth in the solution and wring until it is not dripping. Starting at the top of the pantry, wipe down each shelf and the walls. Don't forget the floor!
   • If you see or suspect mold or mildew, clean the area with a disinfectant solution (follow the label instructions) or use disinfecting wipes.
   • Allow the area to air-dry while you sort the food that should be returned to the shelves.

   

3. Sort the Items in the Pantry

   • Remove any items that belong in other places and put them in their proper spot. It's not a good idea to store cleaning supplies alongside food products.
   • Gather cardboard boxes or shopping bags and trash bags before you begin sorting. Designate one area as "Keep", one as "Donate", and one as "Trash".
     
   • Check the expiration date on each product and then decide where it should go. Toss items that are expired, any food that shows insect infestation, leaking or bulging cans, and open foods that are stale. Donate foods that your family doesn't like or items that you've over-bought to a local food pantry. Keep the rest.

   

4. Organize and Restock the Pantry

   • Now that you have only your "Keep" items to deal with, take some time to organize your pantry.
   • If a bottle or jar feels sticky, wipe it off with a damp microfiber cloth before returning it to the pantry.
   • Place items that are used daily-like cereals and snacks-within easy reach.
   • Store like items (snack bars, juice pouches, foils, and storage bags) together in bins or baskets for easy access. Be sure to label the bins.
   • Group similar items together so you can find them easily. Consider placing all baking items together, all canned goods, or all spices and flavorings.
     
   • Consolidate open foods in clear, sealable storage containers and, if possible, recycle the commercial packaging.
   • Place foods with the longest expiration date at the back of the shelf and short expiration dates at the front so you'll use them first.
     

   Tips

   If you have a pantry with deep shelves, consider purchasing wire risers so you can stack items for more visibility. Add an over-the-door shallow wire rack to hold spices and small items.

   

Tips to Keep Your Pantry Clean Longer

• Keep a running list of what you have on hand in your pantry. Make a notation of what you need to restock to prevent overbuying.
• Maximize your storage space with shelf risers, over-the-door shelves, turntables, and reusable storage containers.
• Remove excess packaging from the manufacturer to create more space.