As we embark on several major holidays, it’s now time to clean and organize your pantry. Right now, your pantry is probably stuffed with foods and ingredients that are expired, unopened, or unorganized. So, if you have a hard time staying organized but want better pantry practices, we have a few tips for you to clean up the family focal point: 

• Clear it out.

One of the first things you’ll want to do is to empty your pantry. Remove everything off the shelves, and place them on nearby tables and countertops. When empty, use a small broom or even a vacuum to eliminate any crumbs, dust, or loose food particles on the shelves and floor. Next up, get a cleaning solution and wipe it down with a microfiber cloth. 

• Declutter and clean the contents.

As you examine all of the items in your pantry, you’ll want to do is pay attention to expiration dates and ditch anything that’s expired. You’ll also want to take careful consideration as to whether you need a food item or ingredient in your pantry any longer. If you haven’t used it, it’s not on any upcoming meal plans, and it hasn’t expired, donate it instead. Lastly, wipe everything down with a little dish soap and water before you put it back on the shelves. 

• Use storage containers.

Before you restock items, purchase storage containers and labels well in advance. Clear air-tight containers are fantastic for bulk ingredients, such as flour, grains, nuts, seeds, and cereal, for example. Organize your spices by placing them in specialized spice shelves designed to make it easier for you to find and organize these oft-used ingredients. 

• Organize wisely.

As you organize your pantry, make sure you do so wisely. Place things together that you usually use together, such as pasta sauce jars with noodles. Put items that are used regularly by your family in easy to reach, easy to find places. You may want to use baskets, and other food storage containers, to easily pair things together. 

• Restock with a plan.

As you figure out what you are missing and what you need to replace that expired, make a meal plan as you go along. You will be able to use up what you do have in your pantry and spend less money in the grocery store. Try out a few recipes that you haven’t had before, using ingredients you have in abundance. 

Cleaning out your pantry may not be your top priority, but it will help you plan for the holiday season. Contact Pur Cleaning for our eco-friendly house cleaning services.