Nesting? Let’s organise the pantry

January 22, 2021

by Anita Birges

Organising the pantry will change your life – baby or not. It will save you money, it will save you time and it will save you on doubling up. There is absolutely nothing but positive things that come out of organising your pantry.

Now, when you have a baby coming along and you start ‘nesting’, this is a really great time to declutter your pantry and start setting up a system. Being organised in your pantry is going to make those first weeks (and even months) so much easier, especially if you plan on having somebody come in to help you through this period. 

Set up your system pre-baby

You don’t necessarily think about your baby having an immediate effect on your pantry – but they will soon! Before you know it, you will have sippy cups, food storage containers, bottles, formula – the list goes on. If you already have a toddler, you likely have a heap of these items floating around already. 

By planning ahead and making room for these items before your baby arrives, it’s going to mean much less stress, then if you were to wait until you have to start shuffling things around to make it fit. 

Storage Containers + Systems

Once you hit solids, there is a new category that’s going to make its way into your pantry – snacks! You know those little rice crackers, rusks and the squeezies. You will need to have your tubs organized for storing them, along with space for the various snack and lunch boxes that come in many different shapes and sizes. Make sure the ‘system’ that you put in place is clearly labeled and you have a designated area for these items

Cooking Supplies

Whether you were a bit of a baker or not beforehand, once you enter into toddlerhood, baking or cooking in some capacity, usually becomes an activity of choice. They are exposed to the concept of cooking through tv shows, daycare activities and of course, through wanting to mimic mum and dad in the kitchen. Having your baking items (flours, sprinkles, cupcake holders – or carob chips and spelt powder if you are following a more healthy alternative) – will all need to have a home in your pantry. Storage baskets are a great way to keep all of these items in place. 

Pantry Drawers

If the majority of your pantry is in drawers, it’s a good idea to use containers. Try to opt for containers with a clear lid, as you won’t need to label them as it will be clear to see the contents inside. 

Pantry Shelves

If you have a shelving system, make sure you have plastic containers ready, as this will make accessing items much easier. The most important thing to remember with any storage system, is to keep it uniformed and labeled-  this will give a more organized and clear presentation in your pantry.