6 Pantry Zones That Stop You Buying the Same Thing Twice

6 slides · by Homeknacks Editorial

Nearly every kitchen contains three open bags of the same thing. It happens because a food cupboard is deep, stacked and unlit, so the items at the back are effectively invisible, and the only reliable way to find out whether you own cumin is to buy cumin.

Fixing it is not about buying matching jars. It is about making everything visible in one glance and giving each category an address so returning items is automatic. This takes one afternoon, costs $60 to $120, CA$85 to CA$170 or £50 to £95 depending on how much you decant, and it pays for itself in duplicates not bought within a few months.

1. 1. Empty the cupboard completely and sort as you go
2. 2. Decant dry goods into square containers
3. 3. Create an eat-first basket for the strays
4. 4. Tier the tins and jars so every label faces out
5. 5. Use the door and the wasted vertical space
6. 6. Label everything, then set a restock rhythm

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