Pantry Organization Ideas for Small Spaces
A small pantry holds more when you add levels: stepped risers for cans, a two-tier turntable for corners, stacking bins for loose packs and drawers that hang under a shelf. The stepped can rack below holds 16 to 24 cans, its maker lists.
The Picks
- 1YouCopia
YouCopia ShelfSteps Can Organizer, 3-Shelf
For a deep shelf of cans you can't see past the front row.
Three stepped shelves hold 16 to 24 cans, and the depth expands from 4.8 to 12.6 in.
13.4 in wide x 6.5 in high · 2.25 in between tiers · holds up to 30 lb · the maker does not recommend it for wire shelves
See it on YouCopia → - 2YouCopia
YouCopia SmoothSpin Two-Tier Turntable
For a back corner where jars get lost.
Two tiers spin on stainless steel ball bearings, with 5, 6 or 7 in of clearance between them.
10.6 in across · 7.0 to 9.0 in high
See it on YouCopia → - 3YouCopia
YouCopia ShelfBin Stacking Pantry Bins, 2-Pack
For a tall shelf with empty air above short packs.
Two bins stack to 12.3 in high, and a wide front opening lets you reach in without unstacking.
Each bin 10.0 in deep x 8.8 in wide x 6.6 in high · recycled BPA-free plastic
See it on YouCopia → - 4YouCopia
YouCopia ShelfBin Snack Organizer
For loose snack bags and bars.
Seven compartments over three tiers, with a handle to pull the whole bin off the shelf.
10.7 in deep x 10.0 in wide x 5.2 in high · 2 removable dividers
See it on YouCopia → - 5Umbra
Umbra Bellwood 3-Tier Spice Shelf
For spice jars on a narrow shelf.
Three tiers expand from 12 to 24 in wide, so the back row sits higher than the front.
Listed at 20.75 x 6.25 x 5 in · made from 70% recycled plastic
See it on Umbra → - 6Joseph Joseph
Joseph Joseph CupboardStore Under-Shelf Drawer
For the empty gap under a shelf.
A pull-out drawer that sticks under shelves wider than 9.25 in and up to 0.75 in thick.
3.9 in high x 9.3 in wide x 8.9 in deep · adhesive tape install, no tools
See it on Joseph Joseph →
Measure the Shelf Before You Buy
Measure three things: shelf depth, the height between shelves and whether the shelf is wire or solid. Write them down before you shop.
Stepped risers and bins need a flat surface. The ShelfSteps maker says wire shelves are not recommended. Under-shelf drawers need the shelf edge to be thin enough: the CupboardStore drawer takes shelves up to 0.75 in thick.
Check height last. The SmoothSpin turntable stands 7.0 to 9.0 in tall, and two stacked ShelfBins reach 12.3 in.
Put Daily Items at Eye Level
Keep the shelf between your shoulders and waist for things you use every day. Put the can rack there, with the oldest cans on the top step.
Use the top shelf for refills and bulk packs in stacking bins. Use the floor for heavy bags and drinks.
Corners suit a turntable, because a spin brings the back row to the front.
Group by Meal, Not by Package
Sort food by how you use it: breakfast, baking, snacks and dinner staples. Give each group one bin or one shelf zone.
A group stays together when it runs low, so you see what to buy. Label the front of each bin with the group name.
Related Ideas
Sources
- YouCopia: YouCopia ShelfSteps Can Organizer, 3-Shelf
- YouCopia: YouCopia SmoothSpin Two-Tier Turntable
- YouCopia: YouCopia ShelfBin Stacking Pantry Bins, 2-Pack
- YouCopia: YouCopia ShelfBin Snack Organizer
- Umbra: Umbra Bellwood 3-Tier Spice Shelf
- Joseph Joseph: Joseph Joseph CupboardStore Under-Shelf Drawer