In recent years, decluttering and restocking videos have taken TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram by storm.
American homemakers have led the charge, creating mesmerising ASMR-style content featuring perfectly lined-up chocolate milk cartons and meticulously arranged cheese sticks in spotless fridges.
The trend of transferring food from its original packaging into sleek, aesthetically pleasing containers has spread like wildfire, inspiring a wave of hyper-organisation.
- Of course, this movement hasn’t been without criticism, many argue it fuels rampant consumerism and unnecessary waste, as perfectly functional packaging is tossed aside for something trendier. Yet, the obsession with flawlessly arranged snack stations and picture-perfect produce bins remains strong. If you’re looking to refresh your pantry in a way that’s both visually satisfying and environmentally conscious, here are a few tips to help you declutter and reorganise sustainably, without falling into the trap of excess waste.
Repurpose and reuse containers
Before tossing out original packaging, consider how it can be creatively repurposed. Glass jars from pasta sauce, peanut butter, or jam can be washed and reused to store grains, nuts, or spices, reducing waste while giving your pantry a stylish, uniform look. Even sturdy plastic containers can have a second life, perfect for organising baking ingredients, coffee, or small snacks. For an extra touch, remove labels and add chalkboard stickers or handwritten tags to keep track of contents and expiration dates. Repurposing not only minimises waste but also saves money on new storage solutions, because sustainability can be both practical and aesthetically pleasing!
Take stock of what you have
Decluttering doesn’t mean throwing everything out! Start by removing all items from your pantry and taking stock of what you already have. Check expiry dates, especially on condiments, sauces, and pantry staples. Things like soy sauce, mustard, oils, and vinegar often last longer than we realise but can easily be forgotten in the back of a cupboard. Group similar items together as you go, making note of anything running low so you can restock smartly. If something is past its best, swap it for a fresh bottle to ensure you always have essentials on hand. This simple step prevents waste, saves money, and makes meal prep a breeze!
Plan for convenience
A well-organised pantry isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about making cooking easier and more enjoyable. Start by identifying your most-used ingredients and keeping them within easy reach. Whether it’s olive oil, vinegar, or your go-to seasoning, having a well-stocked pantry means you’ll always be prepared for quick and delicious meals. Consider grouping your essentials together, cooking oils and vinegars in one spot, spices in another, and staple grains like rice and pasta within easy reach, so you never have to dig through clutter when you’re in a hurry. And don’t forget to stock up on flavour boosters! A high-quality chilli oil, like Banhoek Chilli Oil, is a pantry must-have. Its bold, versatile flavour can transform everything from roasted vegetables to pasta dishes, adding just the right amount of bite of flavour to your favourite dishes.
Clever groupings
A well-organised pantry starts with smart categorisation. Group similar items together, grains with grains, spices with spices, and snacks with snacks, all to create a system that’s both functional and visually appealing. Keeping like items together makes it easier to find what you need at a glance and helps prevent duplicate purchases. Where possible, use clear containers to store pantry staples like flour, sugar, pasta, and cereal. This not only gives your shelves a neat, uniform look but also helps you keep track of quantities, so you’ll know when it’s time to restock. Plus, airtight containers help maintain freshness, ensuring your ingredients last longer. With a little strategic grouping, your pantry will feel effortlessly organised and easy to navigate.
Choose sustainable storage options
Upgrade your pantry with eco-friendly storage solutions. Swap plastic bins for bamboo, glass, or stainless-steel containers which are durable, reusable, and free from harmful chemicals. Glass jars are great for storing dry goods like pasta and rice, keeping them fresh and easy to find. For bread, cheese, or fresh produce, ditch plastic wrap in favour of beeswax wraps or cloth bags, which help reduce waste while keeping food fresh. With these simple swaps, you can achieve a beautifully organised pantry, without the excess plastic.
At the end of the day, the key to a successful pantry refresh is making choices that work for you, and the planet. From repurposing old jars or choosing sustainable storage solutions, remember that small changes can make a big impact. With a little effort, you’ll have a pantry that’s both clutter-free and eco-friendly, and that’s something to feel good about.
