Declutter Deep Cabinets in 3 Simple Steps
If you're struggling with disorganized, cluttered deep cabinets, you're not alone. The depth of these cabinets can make it especially tricky to neatly arrange items and easily find what you need. However, with some strategic organization, it is possible to transform those messy spaces into functional, tidy storage solutions.
Follow these 3 simple steps to declutter your deep cabinets and make the most of that valuable storage space.
Step 1: Purge and Categorize
The first step is assessing everything currently being stored in your deep cabinets. Take literally everything out so you can have a blank slate to work with. As you sort through the items, check expiration dates and discard anything that's expired.
Next, honestly evaluate if you use or need items. Be ruthless here - if you haven't used something in over a year, donate or trash it. This process will likely uncover lost items and create space you didn't realize you had!
| Tip 1 | Group like items into categories, like canned goods, baking supplies, snacks, etc. Categorization will make everything easier to find later on. |
| Tip 2 | Place frequently used ingredients and items near the front for easy access. Less used items can go towards the back. |
Purging Tips
- Check expiration dates and toss expired items
- Discard items you haven't used in over a year
- Donate unwanted non-perishables to charity
- Group similar items into clear containers or baskets
Step 2: Maximize Vertical Space
Deep cabinets offer ample vertical storage opportunities. Take advantage by installing additional shelves or shelf risers to double your usable space. For even more storage, mount walls racks or rails to hold items off the floor.
If shelves are fixed or unable to be adjusted, consider adding tension rods or vertical dividers to split a shelf into smaller sections suited for narrower items.
| Solution 1 | Add slide out trays to fully utilize awkward bottom shelves. |
| Solution 2 | Use drawer organizers or bins for easier categorization. |
Vertical Storage Solutions
- Tiered shelves
- Hanging bins on doors
- Wall mounted paper towel holder
- Vertical dividers for shelves
The final step is labeling items and keeping an updated inventory list. Labelling helps quickly ID items, while the list lets you track stock and know when to replenish.
Use clear containers so you can easily see contents. Label with chalkboard stickers or regular adhesive labels noting the item and expiration date. Coordinate like items through a color coding system.
Maintain organization by logging outgoing and incoming items. First in, first out rotation keeps stock fresh. Reassess storage solutions periodically and adjust as your needs change.
| Idea 1 | Use digital notes or go old school with a paper list to track stock. |
| Idea 2 | Shop strategically based on inventory levels to prevent buying duplicates. |