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Experts Reveal Pantry Habits to Avoid
Professional organizers share the common pantry mistakes to steer clear of for a tidy, functional space.
Published on Feb. 7, 2026
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According to professional organizers, there are several pantry habits that should be avoided for an organized and functional space. These include storing cleaning products with food, implementing overly rigid organizing systems, going overboard with labeling, keeping foods you don't plan to eat, and storing non-food items in the pantry. The experts recommend a more flexible, streamlined approach to pantry organization.
Why it matters
Proper pantry organization is key for maintaining a clean, safe, and efficient kitchen space. By avoiding common pitfalls, homeowners can create a pantry that works for their household's needs and lifestyle, preventing clutter and wasted food.
The details
Organizers advise against storing cleaning products in the pantry, as chemicals can contaminate nearby food. They also recommend avoiding overly complicated organizing systems that are difficult to maintain, as well as excessive labeling. Keeping foods you don't plan to eat takes up valuable space, and storing non-food items in the pantry can lead to clutter. The experts suggest a more streamlined approach, using clear containers and categorizing items broadly.
- The article was published on February 8, 2026.
The players
Ashley Hines
A professional organizer at Thee Tailored Life.
Lindsay Melvin
The owner of Orchid Organizing.
Cheryl Russo
The founder of Organizing by Cheryl.
What they’re saying
“I would never store toxic products, like household chemicals or cleaning supplies, in the pantry. The pantry is a food space that should feel safe and nourishing.”
— Ashley Hines, Professional Organizer
“Skip overly rigid systems. Your pantry should be flexible enough to handle everyday grocery swaps and changes in taste. If you live with others, keep it simple and easy for everyone to use.”
— Ashley Hines, Professional Organizer
“Labels should make sense for your household. Stick to wide categories like breakfast, grains, snacks, baking and canned foods. This offers you a category yet flexibility.”
— Lindsay Melvin, Owner, Orchid Organizing
“I've seen clients try to label EVERYTHING, and this is counterproductive because no one wants to read 50 labels when they're hungry.”
— Cheryl Russo, Founder, Organizing by Cheryl
“I never keep food we do not eat. Food, snacks or ingredients you don't plan to eat are taking up space in the pantry and will eventually expire and turn to waste.”
— Ashley Hines, Professional Organizer
The takeaway
By avoiding common pantry organization mistakes like storing cleaning products with food, implementing overly rigid systems, and hoarding unwanted items, homeowners can create a streamlined, functional pantry that serves their household's needs and reduces waste.
