Organize Your Kitchen Pantry by Decanting

Good news!
You don’t need to spend a fortune on fancy containers or dedicate an entire weekend to meticulously transferring spices from one jar to another to enjoy the benefits of decanting (that sounds like a drag, doesn’t it?!). As a professional home organizer (and a former single mom who understands real-life organizing), I have some simple, foolproof tips to help you quickly declutter and organize your pantry.

What is Decanting, Anyway?

You might be thinking of red wine swirled into a glass carafe (delicious)—and you’re not wrong—but decanting in the organizing world is all about transferring food from its original packaging into clear, airtight containers. It’s a simple way to upgrade your pantry, maximize space, and make everything easier to find

Why Decant? (It’s more than just looks!)

Sure, a decanted pantry looks Pinterest-perfect, but the benefits go way beyond aesthetics. Here’s why we professional home organizers swear by it:

• Saves Space – Removing bulky packaging clears up valuable shelf space.

• Keeps Food Fresher, Longer – Airtight containers help prevent staleness and food waste.

• Protects Against Pests – Bugs love paper and cardboard; glass and plastic? Not so much.

• Makes Inventory a Breeze – With clear containers, you’ll always know when it’s time to restock (and avoid finding out the hard way that someone left just three Cheerios in the box).

• Reduces Visual Clutter – A well-organized pantry instantly feels more streamlined and functional. We all love those Instagram photos of beautiful pantries!

How to Start Decanting Like a Pro

Ready to get organized? Follow these simple steps to create a stylish and practical pantry.

1. Decide What’s Worth Decanting

Not every item needs to be transferred to a separate container. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

✔️ Must-Decant Items:

• Baking Staples – Flour, sugar, cornstarch, baking soda, and chocolate chips stay fresher in airtight jars.

• Snacks – Nuts, dried fruit, crackers, and pretzels maintain their crunch longer.

• Commonly Used Grains & Pasta – Rice, quinoa, oats, and pasta benefit from airtight storage (but if you use an entire box in one meal, bins might work better!).

❌ Skip the Decanting:

• Canned Goods & Condiments – Hard no. They’re already in their own storage-friendly containers.

• Individually Wrapped Snacks – Instead, use a bin or basket to keep them tidy.

• Baking Mixes & Boxed Goods – No need to overcomplicate things—just store them neatly.

2. Shop Your Home First

Before splurging on new containers, check what you already own. Mason jars, jam jars, and pasta sauce jars are all excellent (and free!) alternatives. Check with your local Buy-Nothing Group to fill in your gaps, but if you need to buy containers, invest in high-quality glass over plastic for durability and food safety

3. Label Like a Pro

Since decanting involves tossing the original packaging, labeling is key. Here’s how to do it right:

Keep It Simple – Use broad categories like “snacks” instead of “chocolate-covered almonds” to easily swap out contents without relabeling.

• Use Chalk Pens or Wine Writers – Instead of constantly updating stickers, jot down expiration dates or cooking instructions directly on the container.

4. Create a Back-Up System

Are you wondering what to do with the excess food that doesn’t fit in your jars? Set up a “back-up bin” to store partially used items. This keeps everything organized while ensuring that nothing goes to waste.

5. Shop Bulk to Reduce Waste

One of the best ways to make decanting more eco-friendly is by shopping from bulk bins. Many grocery stores offer grains, nuts, and baking staples without all the excess packaging. Of course, co-ops are all about bulk bins. Bring your own reusable bags and transfer the goods to your containers when you get home.

The Takeaway

By decluttering, using containers you already own, and focusing on the essentials, you can create an organized pantry without unnecessary hassle or expense. I'd love to talk with you if you’re searching for an organizer near you to help streamline your space.

Ready to declutter and organize your kitchen? A little decanting goes a long way toward creating a functional and enjoyable pantry!