Back in July and August I participated un-officially in the All You’s Grocery challenge. My main goal really in doing this was to use and rotate the items that I had in my stockpile. Sadly, I do not have a walk-in pantry. My food stockpile is contained mostly in my kitchen cabinets. I do also have items that I keep in this storage area my husband built for me in the garage last year. I have to make sure that my items are organized so they get used. Despite my efforts every now and then I find items that are expired or about to become expired. Here are some tips that I picked up on Mealtime.org to improve my food storage area or pantry:
- Arrange food so that I can see them: I rearranged items in one of my main kitchen cabinets. In the past I had double rows of items and that was a bad idea as the items in the back row would go unused and ignored.
- Group similar food items in the same area: I have tried to keep canned vegetable and soups in a set of pull out drawers my husband installed for me. Also all granola bars, pasta and spices together in the same area as well.
- Use bins and baskets. I have had the chance to re-purpose empty wipes containers to hold thing like taco seasoning packs, or instant oatmeal envelopes. They fit in very nicely and they are also all contained in one place instead of all over the lazy Susan.
I also did some of the same things for freezer storage:
- Grouped similar items in one area: all frozen vegetables are in one place, meats in another and things like ice cream in another.
- For foods that I cooked in batches and freeze to reheat later get labeled properly to make sure they get used within reasonable time.
A lot of these improvements only involved my time and labor. My husband did install a couple of pull out drawers to make it easier for me to access cans and other items in a lower storage area. I think in total he spent around $70 on materials and we used a $100 gift card we received from Mealtime.org to buy the materials.
Pull Out Drawers for Easy Access
Just rearranging most often used cabinet
The pantry rearranging has worked very well. We have been able to use a lot of the stockpiled items. We also had the opportunity to take some extra items to the local food pantry. But in general the biggest benefit has been being able to inventory what it is I have available to avoid getting more until I use up what I have.
Do you think you could use a pantry challenge? How would a $250 gift card to the grocery store of your choice sound to you as an incentive? Thanks to the Canned Food Alliance, I am able to hold this very generous giveaway on my blog. ONE of you will walk away a winner of a $250 gift card to the grocery store of your choice. All you need to enter this giveaway is:
1) Visit Mealtime.org and check out their tips to Perk up your Pantry or Reorganizing your Fridge and Freezer. Then come back and Leave a comment on this post sharing which tip you think would be of most benefit to you in your own quest to reorganize your own pantry
For additional entries you can
- Share this on Twitter using the following line:
Share your favorite Pantry organization tip from Mealtime.org and enter a chance to win a $250 Grocery Store GC http://bit.ly/15Oh2Y
- Share this on Facebook:
Share your favorite Pantry organization tip from Mealtime.org and enter a chance to win a $250 Grocery Store GC from Common Sense with Money http://bit.ly/15Oh2Y
- If you have your own blog you can also share with your readers about this giveaway. Just make sure to link back and leave a comment with the link so I can verify this.
This way you can earn up to four entries. Just make sure to leave a separate comment if you decide to share this giveaway with others. If you are reading this entry via email updates or via RSS reader please click through this entry and visit my blog to enter. Emailing me is not a valid entry for this giveaway. This giveaway is open to residents of the United States only. Please enter only if you are 18 years or older. This giveaway ends 9/20 at 9PM CST. At that time I will select the winner using Random.org and will contact that person. If after 48 hours after contact I don’t hear from them I will select another winner at random. Good Luck!
Deepest thanks to Mealtime.org and the Canned Food Alliance for sponsoring this giveaway.
Hi! I am Mercedes and this is my blog Common Sense with Money! Helping other people live better, spend less, and save more is something I am very passionate about. I combine simple frugal living tips and smart shopping techniques to help moms across the U.S. become better home economists. Thank you for visiting my blog.
I really liked your idea of re-purposing empty wipes containers for packets. I have quite a few of both! Thanks for your tips!
Install a wall rack
My Pantry organization tip is to group things in rows of same items.
I shared through email and Facebook!
My favorite tip from Mealtime is the freezer idea. Store small packages in door racks or freezer.
I love the freezer tip for labeling items, so you remember what it is and when you bought/made it. Then you won’t have to toss food when you can’t remember how old it is!
I like the fridge idea of putting ready-made kid snacks where the kids can see and reach them. Then I don’t have to go and get the snacks for my kids- they can just help themselves. Thanks!
I like the idea of adding plastic storage bins to the freezer, so I can put ziploc bags of stuff in the bin so they don’t slide around at the bottom of the freezer.
I seem to forget to label things when I put them in the freezer so then I don’t know how old they are or sometimes even what they are! That’s the tip I need to incorporate…keep a marker by the freezer with the zip locks!
I love the higher shelves tip, especially for little ones snacks that need approval. We have a snack pantry just for pre-approved kids snacks but I never thought to place unapproved items higher!
I use empty crystal lite containers (and other plastic containers) for storing items that would otherwise roll around in a drawer for years, and this way I am more likely to use them.
L
Ooo, I need to do this tip: label food in the freezer!!! LOL
I like the idea of using plastic bins in the freezer. I’ve been thinking about needing to improve my use of the space in the freezer for quite some time and this would really help. I also think it would eliminate some of the ‘avalanches’ that occur when everything just starts sliding out.
Clean out—all the way to the back of the fridge! (I realllllly need to do this!
Label – I always think I’m going to remember what every meat is and it’s weight. And I’m always wrong. I’m trying to get better at it, but I need to try harder! It really doesn’t take any time at all.
I think it is a GREAT idea to label the pantry shelves. I stopped letting my fam help me unload groceries because I could never find them… but if I take 5-10 min to label the shelves I can save hours in the long run. Thank you so much!!!
I like the tip add plastic bins or expandable shelves to organize items and better utilize space. We are always putting food containers on top of another and therefore forgetting about some food items until they become science experiments.
Install a wall rack. Great use of space!
I really could use a rack on the inside of my pantry door, I think I would put kid-approved snacks on the bottom few also…Thanks!
Clean out fridge all the way to the back. I’m not very good at that.
I should work on cleaning out all the way to the back of the fridge!
I need to be better about labeling things in the freezer. There have been too many times when I put something in there and then have no clue what it is several months later. Who’s going to eat the mystery?!
I love the idea of putting kids snacks where their eyes can see and hands can reach. Fabulous!
OH!!! Labeling the shelves!!! I’m going to go do that right now! Maybe then the 3 year old won’t end up bringing out the chips in the morning when he’s sent after cereal because the bigger sister just set them where it was convenient for her. . . . then again, maybe not, but it’s worth a try!
I need to try & label freezer containers better, so we don’t have any more “surprises”.
I liked this suggestion: Label. So food doesn’t “get lost,” use freezer labels or masking tape to identify food you store in plastic containers or freezer bags. Put the storage date on the label too.
I think labeling where things go would help, and we do have a labeler. Then hubby wouldn’t have to ask me if we had more salsa–he could just look in the salsa place to see if we’re out. Thanks for the giveaway!
I think keepin ready-to-eat snacks at a child’s height in the refrigerator would help me use up all my produce before it goes bad.
I like the freezer tips.
Thanks!
I really like the idea of adding plastic bins and expandable shelves to the freezer – things are forever getting buried in mine, and this would make it so much easier to find and use what I have!
I commented on facebook.
Thanks!
I like and use the suggestion to make effective use of the refrigerator door for jar and bottle storage.
I liked the suggestion of using plastic bins or expandable shelves in your freezer. I put plastic bins and baskets in my freezer to help organize smaller things.
I tweeted! http://twitter.com/karrisa817/status/3987583070
I am going to try implementing bins in my pantry. I think this will help with organization, but also help the kids find what they are looking for and force space limits on me for some items so that I don’t over-buy.
I like the idea of repurposing containers you already have for storage.
I checked their freezer tips, and the one that would help me the most would be clean out! We have been doing some of this the last couple of weeks. I need tips for organizing a large chest freezer. These tips are for side by sides or uprights I think. I need to organize things in the vast cavern of my freezer, where stacks tip over and I can’t reach to the bottom!
Thanks!
KellyH
I posted this on Facebook! http://www.facebook.com/karrisa817
I posted via facebook!
Thanks
KellyH
I like the idea to use basket and drawers for things like tea bags and dip mixes. I seem to always lose those.
label food in the freezer!!
3. Add plastic bins or expandable shelves to organize items and better utilize space.
This is so helpful in a chest freezer. You can stack the bins and organize at the same time
What would help me is –
5. Make it easy for your family to help. Label shelves and drawers to show where food is stored so your family can easily help with meal prep and putting away groceries.
This way, it would help my husband to put things where I normally do.
Thanks for the chance at the giveaway.
Designate storage space and group similar foods together is the tip I need to use. Now that my sister is moving out I will have double the space! Meaning I won’t have to just shove everything into the pantry. I also love the tip about baskets/bins. Very useful for the open boxes of poptarts, peanut butter crackers etc so the boxes wont take up as much space!
I like the freezer organization tips. I almost (?) always label what it is but forget to put the date. So I end up throwing food because I can’t remember when I put it in there!
One tip~ I keep a freezer container in the freezer and when I have left over veggies I toss them in it. When I’m ready to make a beef stew I add all those saved veggies. Beef stew never gets boring and its never the same!
hondaray6 at hotmail dot com
I tweeted~http://twitter.com/hondaray6/status/3988023742
Great giveaway! I just Twittered about it. My best tip is to get rid of all the stuff you haven’t touched in a year – same rule applies to my closet!
I think the tip I could really use to follow would be to label shelves to make it easier for everyone to put things back in the right spot and find things!
Being an organizational JUNKIE(!), I love the idea of adding racks to the pantry doors. This adds a ton of space to what is normally unused space.
Also, rising shelves are the best…especially for us short people who can’t always see to the back of higher shelves.
Designate storage space and group similar foods together. I have very little space and the space I can find is in the kitchen, garage, basement, and a bathroom. I need to decide what goes where and then always keep the same items in the same place!
The tip I will be using the most is: “Save space. Install a door or wall rack for cans and bottles. Use tiered shelf risers so you can see the back row of cans, herbs and spices as easily as those in the front.”
I’m 25 and I’ve just bought my first home. Try as I might to be organized, I realize that it’s hard to do with out a pantry. I’ve turned a hallway closet into a make shift pantry, and never even thought of how much ‘pantry real estate’ is wasted. Prime space! The back of the closet door!
I’m going to my local Re-Store (Habitat for Humanity Store) to pick up some door shelving/racks to hold all of my cans of soup and jelly jars!
Thanks for the great tips!
I like the idea of the tiered shelf risers for cans so you can see whats in the back of the shelf, I need to find some of those!!
Thanks for the fun giveaway!!
I’ve emailed this to everyone on my friends/family email account!
I blogged here:
http://dun4fun-hondaray6.blogspot.com/2009/09/250-grocery-store-card.html
My favorite is the repurposing of the baby wipe containers. It makes it easy to store and less clutter.
I like the idea of using a rack on the back of the pantry door. I think I’m fairly organized, but this would add so much more space and free up some space that can be used for other items. Thanks!
Our most used pantry tip is using shelves and bins – makes organizing a lot easier!!!
The best tip is to clean out all the way to the back of the fridge and get rid of expired food. We often forget to dig stuff out of the back.
A good tip is to label shelves to make it easier for everyone to put things back in the right spot and find things.
I like the freezer labeling tip. I never know so I am always throwing good stuff out.
denise_22315(at)yahoo(dot)com
I liked the idea about using tiered shelf risers so you can see all of your cans/spices. Mine are in rows, and I’m probably missing some in the back.
I think installing a door rack could really help a whole lot. Also, storing my favorite foods at eye level wouldn’t hurt either!
Jennifer Ivey
iveyartandsoul@gmail.com
Use bins, baskets and drawers. I need these in my cupboards and freezer. I also like the labeling idea.
I like the part about cleaning out the freezer. I just did that and it’s amazing what you can find in the back of the freezer that had a sell-by date of 2005!
I think I could benefit most from reorganizing the fridge. I just kind of throw things in there and don’t use the crisper drawer.
I like the tips on labeling everything. Especially in the freezer. So much easier to know what you have when you can just read it right there on the label!
I think adding plastic bins or expandable shelves to organize items and better utilize space would help me the most – stuff is constantly getting lost in the bottom of my freezer!
thanks for the awesome giveaway
I put this as my facebook status also
I have a tall/deep pantry that’s not very wide, so stuff gets lost in it. I like the idea to use bins/baskets/drawers to organize stuff & make it easier to find.
Adding the storage date to the items in the freezer…despite our efforts, we end up with freezer-burnt packages that we have no idea how long they’ve been there! I’m going to tape a marker to the freezer…thanks!
label! so many times i’ve come across something in the freezer, unable to tell what it is exactly or how long it’s been there.
i need to put a roll of masking tape and a marker beside my chest freezer.
Have to say that the tip I need to follow the most is labeling freezer items.
I’m all about step 4. labeling. It applies to fridge organization as well – especially when you reuse plastic containers that might have a picture of something else on the lid!
I totally need to get some more racks or bins for my freezer. Currently I tend to shove everything in and hope the freezer door shuts!
Thanks for the great giveaway!
Freezer tip about labeling the smaller packages when we buy a ‘family’ size package of meat for example. Thanks!!!
I tweeted.
I like the idea to use bins and baskets to organize in the pantry. I like the idea of baby wipes containers for packets that you mentioned, I’ll be doing that tonight I think
)
I realized I do have a lot of wasted space in my pantry… A rack on the door could help me corral lots of smaller items!
Shared on FaceBook!
http://daniellelovesdeals.blogspot.com/
Blogged!
“Label,” definitely! Everything looks alike in vacuum sealed bags, especially chicken. I often can’t tell whether I have thighs or breasts until I open the bag.
This was pretty interesting. My deep freeze needs lots of help, so I think adding bins and baskets would be a big help. One day during summer vacation, my dd re-arranged our spices, which has been very helpful (and shows that I have multiple containers of some things!), so I think if things were better organized, it would help.
Labeling items in the freezer!
Keeping like items together and labeling is something that would help us. Thanks for the giveaway!
The most practical ideal for me is to use bins, baskets and drawers for more organized storage, but my favorite idea is to install a rack on the back of the pantry door. The only problem is that I don’t have a walk-in pantry so it won’t work for me.
Installing more wall racks would help a lot.
Save space. Install a door or wall rack for cans and bottles. That’s the only tip I HAVEN’T used yet
twittered! @babygoodbuys
My favorite tip is to store small items in the door. I tend to throw everything in when I get home from the store and then the small things get lost or forgotten.
Installing a wall rack in the pantry would create lots more space!
I have never thought to put plastic bins in the freezer – great idea.
Install a wall rack
I need to do the labeling bags before I put them in the freezer. Would make it much easier when it’s time to take them out.
i need to start using plastic storage bins in the freezer so that everything doesn’t fall out when you try t remove something!!!
I would like something on my door to see cans better.
would love to use door racks for spices!
I like the idea of putting ready-to-eat snacks where kids can see and reach them.
I could group more of the similar foods together so they would be easier to find.
I love the idea of labeling the shelves and drawers. I’m obsessed with neatness and I wish my husband was too when he put the groceries away. Labels could definitely help.
I like the idea of labeling things in your freezer and fridge.
“Clean out—again for food safety and quality and to get rid of food you won’t use.”
This is definitely something I need to start doing!
twittered! @MommyJD
Tweeted http://twitter.com/carryingcoupons
Also shared on Facebook
The tip I think would be most helpful for me is installing a door or wall rack for cans and bottles. Sure would free up some of my shelving space! Love your blog and thanks for the chance at this great giveaway.
Label, label, label. I always find things and wonder how long they have been in the freezer.
My favorite tip is to use an expandable shelf better organize things in the freezer. This would help me a lot!
I really need to start labeling, so that I know when I put something in the freezer; and to add to that, I think keeping an inventory list for my little chest freezer would help us utilize the contents much better, and forget less what is way down in there.
I really would benefit from labeling and dating items in the freezer!
Freeze tips are great I need a lot of help in the freezer!LOL
I like the idea of putting the items you use most often at eye level and other things below. Yes, this is just common sense, but I tend to just stuff items where I can find a place for them.
My favorite tip is “4. Label. So food doesn’t “get lost,” use freezer labels or masking tape to identify food you store in plastic containers or freezer bags. Put the storage date on the label too.” I keep a sharpie right by the freezer so I can put dates on everything.
I think labeling the pantry areas is one of the best ideas, especially if you have a clueless husband/boyfriend who uses the excuse “I don’t know where you want me to put it!” to get out of putting away groceries.
The pull outs in the pantry for easy access. If I ever get the money for kitchen upgrades…that will definately be on the list. Right under A NEW FREEZER!
I am so glad I read this post! I’m pretty good at keeping things organized, but with 5 kids, it doesn’t always stay that way. My biggest challenge is the freezer. I LOVED the idea of using plastic storage bins in the freezer. What an excellent idea! I have so many little things that get lost in there and now all I need is a couple of plastic crates to corral them. Best of all, the dollar store has a large variety of plastic bins! Why didn’t I think of that? =)
Add plastic bins or expandable shelves to organize items and better utilize space.
I love the shelf rack idea. Most of my cupboards are great but I could use this in at least 2 of them.
I like the idea of installing a wall or door rack. That’s a great space saver!
I feel really good that I do many of these already, but the use of expandable shelves and door racks would make viewing what I have so much easier!
I am going to add plastic bins in my freezer, I have been able to stock up on a lot of meat and some of it is getting lost in the back.
I loved all of the freezer ideas. Labeling is a good one!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/cmnuland
Tweet: http://twitter.com/cmouse01
I have a chest freezer that I’m just starting to stockpile in- esp. meat and bread. Love the organizational tips! Will try those out.
I loved two ideas the installing a wall rack which would add a lot of space for cans and labeling. My husband always puts items back in the wrong place and he has a hard time finding things.
I already do most of these already. I like this one: “Install a door or wall rack for cans and bottles.” and I could really use some shelf dividers to help keep things organized.
Arrange foods so that you can see them. I’m a visual…I’ve got to see it! That’s the reason why my storage containers for my fridge must be clear. Out of sight is out of mind and the food goes to waste!
I really need to use tiered shelves so I can see everything I have in the back of my cupboards! Great ideas!
http://thecouponwars.blogspot.com/
Changed my blog address…not thinking about having linked back to this contest…whoops!
I just started reorganizing pantry. I make sure the items I need most are at eye level.
I too have cabinets in my kitchen that serves as my pantry. i think the tiered shelving would help the best!
I love the idea about storing items you use most often at eye level. Not only would this help us see and use these items more efficiently, it would also save me from having to stand up on a stool to search for things we need (this is a GOOD THING since I am under 5 feet tall!).
I really need to get going on the labeling tip. My pantry and freezer really need it. Not only will it cut back on waste or expired items but will speed things up for my husband who doesn’t really know what we have in inventory. Thanks!
My favorite tip is this:
Arrange foods so that you can see them.
I can’t always see everything and it does give hassle when you want to know what you have or want to make something.
i tweeted this as well:
http://twitter.com/ShootingStarMag/status/3997707673
I definitely need to get something for the door to be able to make more use out of my tiny, tiny pantry.
The one thing that has given me so much extra storage is a wire rack on the pantry door! It has helped me stay organized- HIGHLY recommend this! I store peanut butter, honey, hot chocolates, teas, jello, boxes of rice, stuffing, pastas, cakes,oils, baking powder/soda, etc. I always stock the same foods together, labels facing forward & by expiration date to help me use items before they expire. I have open foods in clear plastic Tupperware Modular Mates. These containers stack perfectly & I do not have to throw food out because of bugs…I temporarily joined Tupperware years ago to get an employee discount jsut for these containers! They are worth every penny! Check for them on ebay too!
I like your idea with using the baby wipe containers too! I have used them for hot wheel cars, crayons, etc but never thought about using them for food storage!
Thanks again for a GREAT website that saves my family TONS of money! =)
The simple tip of turning labels to face you was something I didn’t think to do. I always pass over things, or buy more of something because at first glance, I missed it in the fridge.
A tip of ours
I used to freeze things upright in ziploc bags, but recently started to freeze them flat. Especially things like sauces and liquids. Its saved us SOOO much space in our tiny freezer.
I like the door rack idea. The photo on teh site really shows how that could be a great place to store peanut butter and tomato sauce and still ahve them easily accessible. The best thing we do to stay organized is to do an informal inventory each week to plan meals around what is already in the house and what is on sale.
I like the idea of adding plastic storage bins to the freezer, so I can put ziploc bags of stuff in the bin so they don’t slide around at the bottom of the freezer
I like the idea of using bins in the freezer for organization. Thanks for the giveaway!
I tweeted the giveaway: http://twitter.com/CFOblog/status/4003553181
Make it easier for your family to help.
Labelling and grouping items in the pantry! Need to get that done. Thank you for having this giveaway!
Fill those drawers. Use drawers to keep fruits, vegetables and meats organized and fresh.
janetfaye (at) gmail (dot) com
Tweet:
http://twitter.com/Janetfaye/status/4003877377
janetfaye (at) gmail (dot) com
I like the idea of labeling shelves and drawers so everyone knows what goes where
I like the article on mealtime.org about Stocking up for emergencies. They say that there should be enough food and water in your home to last each person in your family for at least three days. I find it interesting that it has only been in the last generation or two that people have not had ample food stored up in case of emergency. Most of us probably remember the way our grandparents had stockpiles of canned goods and preserved foods stocked up in their pantrys, attics, and or basements in case of who knows what. I think in general this generation relys a little to heavily on the thought of grocery stores stocked with food always being there, or there always being a way to buy food, but all it takes is the loss of a job or some major disaster to put a family in destress.
I looked on the website at the pantry pic and I honestly felt “WOW”, but also unsure how to get there. I definitely need more shelves/racks, etc. to organize, but I think I need to take everything out FIRST so I know what would work with what we buy!!
It will be worth it if I can do it all. OVERWHELMING FEELING!
4. Use bins, baskets and drawers. Place flour, sugar and other bagged items into airtight storage bins making it easy to stack them and keep them fresh longer. Baskets also can keep bags together especially for storing items that don’t need to be refrigerated, such as potatoes and onions. Sliding mesh drawer units can keep packets of hot chocolate, dip mixes and tea bags organized and easy to grab.
I love this tip, and I will be looking to see if I can find any clearance baskets (I already use baskets for lots of other things, so maybe I can repurpose some of them).
james cassie gmail com
I love the freezer tip for labeling items, so you remember what it is and when you bought/made it. Something I try and do now but sometimes figure, I’ll remember and of course don’t!
I need to work on #5 – Make it easy for your family to help. Everyone tries to pitch in around the house, but unless we’re on the same page with organization, we end up back at square one!
I think for me cleaning out the fridge and freezer of expired items would be a good start. Hopefully there isn’t a lot because I don’t like to waste. Then I think organizing the freezer so that all the meat, veggies, etc. are together would be great tool so things don’t get forgotten!
I should stack foods by category.
I think the best tip for me is adding bins and shelves to my freezer. Now I can put all my half bags of frozen veggies in one bin together.
Adding plastic bins in your freezer…so simple yet useful, makes me wonder why I didn’t think of it already!
I didn’t think about labeling the shelves so when I get home with the groceries my husband can know where to put them. It seems like every time I organize the pantry in a couple of weeks I need to do it again. Thanks for the tips.
My favorite tip is: Put ready-to-eat snacks where kids can see and reach them. That might be washed grapes or apples; sliced carrot or bell pepper sticks; yogurt, milk and cheese cubes; or juice.
I think my kids (oldest is 5) are ready to start getting healthy snacks on their own!
I plan on using the idea to use freezer labels on plastic containers. I recently made the mistake of freezing a lot of fruit without labels and I have to guess what’s inside.Your cupboards look great-you’ve inspired me to clean mine today!
smchester at gmail dot com
I really need to use the baskets and bins for things like flour and sugar. Not only will it help keep them fresher longer, but it will free up some space for me as well.
I could really use the door rack for spices and stuff. That would really help!
I could probably benefit from a few more bins and baskets.
I tweeted. http://twitter.com/frugalinva/status/4006851667
I like the idea of labeling shelves and drawers. My husband has no idea how I organize everything in our stockpile, so labels would help him help me keep things organized.
Labeling and keeping everything organized and CLEAN!!!
A couple things jumped out at me. First – labeling…not for me but for my husband who never can seem to find XYZ. And I definitely should be using the door space on my ultra narrow pantry.
I like the idea of bins in the freezer, I have a huge 19 cu ft upright and it’s just a ramshackle mess. I thought about getting bins when we switched from a chest to an upright, but didn’t think it was worth the cost. Now I’m reconsidering.
Thanks for the giveaway!
I need to label more of my things in the freezer with dates!
I put this up on twitter.
I need to use more bins and containers in my food storage.
I have a small chest-type freezer. Using stackable bins and baskets lets me keep similar items together. I just take out the basket, find the item I want, then return the basket to the freezer. Saves me from digging through tumbling mounds of frozen stuff.
1. Arrange foods so that you can see them
This is the most useful for me, I can open my pantry and now how much of each I have, and not have things hiding behind that go bad or I get extras of because I could not see them…
Works great!
I like the idea of installing a door rack to get even more use out of my pantry.
I love the idea of putting the ready to eat foods in a place where the kids can help themselves. Great ideas!
Here we are in our new home – no basement – one car garage and I never thought of using the 20 empty plastic containers we have from moving to store the extra boxed and bagged items in till I read that tip! It’s like a lightbulb went on. We have shelving up but use it for the canned and bottled stuff, etc (giant bug land) here. Love the giveaway. Thanks again for all you do.
Tweet, tweet. http://twitter.com/HolleyV/statuses/4009902745
I think labeling the shelves so others can help is a nudge in the right direction.
I posted on Facebook. http://www.facebook.com/HolleyV
I shared on Facebook!
I love re-purposing bins and baskets for the pantry and putting like items together. It helps me to “shop” in my pantry first while making my menu for the week!
I love the labeling idea, I should do it more often!
#3. Save Space by installing racks to cabinet doors. I am hoping to try this tip!
I think this is the #1 idea to help in organizing the pantry
Arrange foods so that you can see them. Keeping your food inventory in plain sight can help you make shopping lists, put groceries away efficiently and find items faster.
Shared with my FB friends! Thanks!
I might have to try the idea of installing a rack on the door of the pantry. Seems like it could add quite a bit of usable space!
I love the idea of using bins & baskets for odd shaped items. I also love the perfect pantry checklist.
plb8156@aol.com
I posted on twitter
http://twitter.com/plb8156/status/4010436086
plb8156@aol.com
Arrange foods so that you can see them; that would be the best advice for me
I like to use baskets (as they suggested at mealtime.org) to group like items together. In my frig, I use plastic bins/baskets to group jellies, sauces, pickles, etc together. Retrieveing them is a cinch. I just reach for the bin and pull out exactly what I want.
I need to do this: Put ready-to-eat snacks where kids can see and reach them.
I posted on facebook
patti connors bright
http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=628552193&share_id=133221905207&comments=1&ref=nf#div_story_133221905207_133221905207
plb8156@aol.com
I like the idea of knowing exactly what is in the containers I put in the freezer. I bought an inexpensive magnetic basket at the dollar store and keep masking tape an a sharpie stuck to the fridge. I label and date containers going in the freezer.
Labeling is the best hint ever – I tend to forget to do this especially with items in the freezer. Fingers are crossed!!
I checked out the website. Putting everything where you can see it is what I need to do. Out of site, out of mind is so descriptive of me!
I always have problems with the fridge and freezer as far as storage goes so their tip to add plastic bins or expandable shelves to organize items and better utilize space would really be a big benefit to me.
tamben7996(at)aol(dot)com
Labeling my pantry shelves would enable my kids to help me put away the groceries.
My husband is making a roll out unit the height of our refrigerator. It will be placed inbetween that small area between the wall and the refrigerator. It is going to have layers of shelves to put canned goods, etc. on! I can’t wait! I don’t have much pantry space, so this will help a great deal and be easy to pull out and push back in, out of sight!
Barb in Jax FL
barbaragierzak@att.net
Funny- my pantry looks JUST LIKE the one pictured! Except I need to buy pull-out storage bins and some containers for my flour, etc. as they suggested.
I think the most helpful hint is to constantly clean and arrange the freezer. Actually, I think I need a way to compartmentalize my chest freezer. I haven’t figured out a good material yet to use, (that I don’t have to buy), to divide the freezer into “cubby holes” that are labeled.
Thanks!
Install a door or wall rack for cans and bottles. Use tiered shelf risers so you can see the back row of cans, herbs and spices as easily as those in the front.
What great ideas! My 3 year old daughter likes to help so I like the idea of arranging the most used items at a most accessible height. And the idea that the parent approval needed snacks are up and out of sight.
This tip would be useful to me:
Place flour, sugar and other bagged items into airtight storage bins making it easy to stack them and keep them fresh longer
as I normally just keep them in their original packaging.
Right now my freezer is slam-full and it takes a private investigator to find something. All of their freezer tips are GREATLY appreciated.
When I buy several cans/jars of something I already have (esp if I find it on sale and know I will use it before it expires…like spices and such) I always make sure to stock it BEHIND the items I already have instead of just shoving it in the cabinet in front of the others.
Thanks for hosting such a great giveaway!
I like the idea of labeling shelves.
The tip I like is: Put ready-to-eat snacks where kids can see and reach them.
The wall racks
I really like this tip:
3. Save space. Install a door or wall rack for cans and bottles.
My fiance has been building lots of cabinets for extra storage, so installing some racks would be the next logical step. Thank you for the giveaway!
I tweeted this here:
http://twitter.com/hardertobreathe/statuses/4014187845
Thank you!!!
I shared it on Facebook also, you can see it here:
http://www.facebook.com/BeebAshcroft
Thank you!
you’re on my facebook!
Arrange foods so you can see them. I have the hardest time with this but I try to make sure that I can see everything so it doesn’t get misplaced.
posted on facebook
the box of powdered milk never gets used, so I use that to hide the lever that opens a secret passage behind the pantry that leads to my underground lab where I have cross bred rats and humans to form rat slaves that clean my yard at night.
Adding plastic bins is something we definitely need to do. We have a chest type freezer we plan to use when we move into our new home, so organization will be key in making sure everything gets used up before expiring. Labeling will also be essential.
Thanks for an awesome giveaway!
I tweeted. I am @whitneybaugh
I posted this on facebook.
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/whitneybaugh?ref=nf
The idea I think I would benefit from the most is using more bins and baskets in my pantry and stockpile area. Big plastic storage containers with lids would be good for all the partially-used bags of pasta and grains. And baskets for potatoes and onions would be nice.
Thanks for offering this!
I love this idea from the site, thanks for sharing and the giveaway.
I tweeted http://www.twitter.com/couponkween
My favorite tip: clean all the way to the back of the fridge.
I need to label my frozen items better. I put something in the freezer and think I’ll remember what it was and when I froze it. HA! I better start labeling!!!
I am in the process of doing something like this one:
“3. Save space. Install a door or wall rack for cans and bottles. ”
I got a plastic shoe rack on clearance & my husband is going to attach it with velcro tp the door so it doesn’t swing out when we open and close the (very small pantry door) Then I can put all of the little stuff that doesn’t stack well in the pouches – the sauce packets, the granola bars, just all the little stuff. I can’t wait until he has it done!
tweet, thanks! http://twitter.com/idahojill/status/4016416375
Shared on facebook -Idaho Jill, thanks!
blogged here: http://tinyurl.com/ojgl3s
thanks!
I think the tip that will help me most in organizing my pantry is to use bins, baskets and drawers. My pantry has a fair amount of space, but I feel like so much of it is “unusable” because it’s behind other things I can’t see. If things were in bins, I could pull them out easily (like having all my baking supplies in one bin). I think I’m going to implement that ASAP!
3. Save space. Install a door or wall rack for cans and bottles. Use tiered shelf risers so you can see the back row of cans, herbs and spices as easily as those in the front.
I like this one:
4. Label. So food doesn’t “get lost,” use freezer labels or masking tape to identify food you store in plastic containers or freezer bags. Put the storage date on the label too.
I seem to always forget when something was made or initially frozen. Not good!
I tweeted:
http://twitter.com/couponlover16/status/4017854781
I like the idea of using bins, baskets and drawers for organization.
I have two different freezers. One I use primarily for meat, bread, fruit juice, and veggies. The other for most everything else. My refrigerator freezers have my casseroles on shelves and butter, margarine, and shredded cheese in the doors.
I don’t label my freezer stuff……that is definitely something I should do, it would save us alot of money
I am trying to label more so that I know when I put it in the freezer and when we need to use it by.
I love the idea of putting plastic bins in the freezer – perfect for smaller bags. Will be much easier to stack things neatly with this idea!
Labeling the food I put in the freezer is key. There are times where I wonder if this is chili or sloppy joes or spaghetti sauce. You would think I would learn this tip on my own.
Tweeted.
http://twitter.com/ABusyMomofTwo/status/4019519539
I think I need a pantry perk up with shelves on my door. It would give my tiny pantry lots more useable space!
I tweeted! @abbysmomtx
I enjoyed the tip regarding labeling your shelves.
We’re moving to a new place in a few weeks, with less kitchen storage, so this was a VERY timely article! I will be trying to reuse wipes tubs for organization (why did I not think of that sooner?) and take advantage of the cabinet door space to hang an organizer inside the lower cabinets. Thanks for the tips!
~Sheila
shared on twitter, too!
I like the labeling ideas.. I need to get organized more.
the visability issue is a good one to deal with too.
I like the idea of using baskets & bins in the pantry for smaller items. I would LOVE to get those slide out cupboard things!
I like the idea of adding expanding shelves in your freezer. I feel like things get stacked and thrown on top of each other.
I like the idea of using baskets to organize in the pantry and have to remember to label everything with dates in the freezer. I normally put what it is, but not when I packaged it. Have to remember that tip!
Door racks! Such a simple idea and I never thought of it! Great idea
I shared on facebook!
Labeling the shelves would help me a lot. And labels with dates on things in the freezer – would make it a lot easier to use things and not have them get ruined!
Blogged -
http://winthis.wordpress.com/2009/09/16/250-grocery-store-gift-card/
I posted about this great giveaway as part of my weekly Wonderful Wednesday post. Thanks for making this available!
http://whatacoolidea.blogspot.com/2009/09/wonderful-wednesday_16.html
I liked the idea of using bins to collect smaller items together. Labeling should be ‘easy’ and yet – not something I’ve done. hmmm.
You can always buy an extra house to put all of the extra items. I tend to just give things away to all of my family members. They seem to like it!!!
Bins in the freezer – the stuff at the bottom gets lost and forgotten and if I had an organized bin system I probably could find things a lot easier.
I like the idea of using tiered risers so I can see what is in back. I need to figure out where I can buy some of these at a fairly reasonable price, as I think this would help me out so much with all the cans. Thanks for a great giveaway!
I blogged about this!!
http://cmriker1.blogspot.com/2009/09/great-giveaway.html
I LOVE the idea about using bins in my freezer!!! Why did I NOT think of this before??????
HOW COME I’VE NEVER THOUGHT TO RE-USE BABY WIPES for food storage???
Sorry guys! Iit seems this was such a hot printable coupon it has reach print limit already.
Mercedes
I need to label items in my freezer.
I want to reorganize my big chest freezer using some sort of bins. Then unbox stuff and organize it into containers (takes less room compiled together, like all the granola bars together, etc.)
The tip Place flour, sugar and other bagged items into airtight storage bins making it easy to stack them and keep them fresh longer is a good one for me since I usually just keep the flour and sugar in their bags.
put kid friendly snacks lower where kids can reach them
I liked the idea of labeling my pantry shelves so my husband can find things as well!
Tweeted:
http://twitter.com/ms0812/status/4045387565
The tip that would be of the most benefit to me is to “Use bins, baskets and drawers” since I already follow the other tips.
My favorite tip: Make it easy for your family to help. Label shelves and drawers to show where food is stored so your family can easily help with meal prep and putting away groceries. — My husband and kids often like to help me put groceries away and it drives me absolutely BATTY when things are not where they should be! LOL
I like the store like items in bins, baskets or on shelves to keep them together. I have read this before, but I loved seeing an example of an organized “real-life” looking pantry on the website. Labeling is also a fabulous idea I would love to try if I could get a good deal on a label maker!
I blogged about this giveaway here:http://sweetsavins.blogspot.com/2009/09/common-sense-with-money-chance-to-win.html
“5. Clean out—all the way to the back of the fridge! Getting rid of food that’s expired or that you won’t use frees up refrigerator space.” would help me the most. We have a bad habit of leaving things in the refrigerator (and then forgetting about them). *Thanks* for the giveaway!
Tweeted
Shared on Facebook
Blogged
I loved the tip about shelf risers. I have been constantly re-organizing as my stockpile comes and goes, and it’s frustrating not to see everything. I’m going to try the shelf risers in the regular cupboards!
Shared on Facebook!
Install a door rack – why didn’t I think of that before?!
I like the idea of keepig snacks in the fridge in a place that is easy for kids to see. Although I don’t have any kids I am going to use this trick on my boyfriend who really doesn’t cook!
I’m all about bins, baskets and drawers! I need to work on labeling, because since I lost my job, I’m trying to do more freezer cooking (to avoid the going out to dinner because there is NOTHING to eat) and I’ve forgot to label, and it becomes a surprise dinner
I like the tip about putting labels on all food you store in the freezer, but be sure to put the date (including the year!) you freeze the food.
We already use a lot of these tips, but the tiered shelf risers might be a good idea for us. Labels on things in the freezer might help sometimes too.
Thanks for the great giveaway!
I think that adding “plastic bins or expandable shelves to organize items and better utilize space” would help with my freezer.
Thanks for doing the giveaway!
-Leslie
carykhepburn@yahoo.com
Blogged about the giveaway in a post here.
Thanks again! What a great giveaway!
-Leslie
carykhepburn@yahoo.com
I like the idea of using baskets — this way your pantry looks fun and is easily organized.
I love the rack over the door tip.. that would save so much room!!
I love the idea of storage containers in the freezer- it’s tough to remember what is in there! Thanks!
I need to be better about labeling stuff in our freezer.
dazed1821@aol.com
Christine
I liked:
3. Save space. Install a door or wall rack for cans and bottles. Use tiered shelf risers so you can see the back row of cans, herbs and spices as easily as those in the front.
As well as keeping most used items at eye level.
Wow if only I had it in me to follow the rule to get rid of anything I haven’t touched in a year…I always keep thinking “but what if…”
We have a chest freezer and if I helped my wife go through it more often…she does keep a list taped on top but it gets out-dated fast!
I like the labeling shelves idea for the pantry so the rest of the household can put groceries away correctly. I’d also take it a step further and clearly mark the cans with their expiration date; I always forget to rotate my stock and end up with a lot of expired cans of food that I have to throw out.
Tweeted:
http://twitter.com/auntiethesis/status/4072033717
Facebooked:
http://www.facebook.com/AuntieThesis?ref=profile
I like the idea of labeling your pantry shelves.
Blogged:
http://auntiethesis.blogspot.com/2009/09/little-common-sense.html
I have started separating the shelves by the same type of foods. I put pastas and sauces on one shelf. I also put veggies otgether etc. etc. I also added baskets as a catchall for the gravy mixes, taco mixes, chili packets, popcorn bags etc. I also have a great gadget: the cansolidator that rotates the food for you. You can out new cans in the top and you take the cans from the bottom based on expiration dates.
This tip worked great for me: Use tiered shelf risers so you can see the back row of cans, herbs and spices as easily as those in the front.
My hubby actually made some for me!
Thanks
bleatham(at)gmail.com
tweeted http://twitter.com/carogonza/status/4072321684
Tweeted for ya!~
http://twitter.com/sleatham1/status/4072075005
bleatham(at)gmail.com
facebook http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/carolyn.gonzalez?ref=profile
http://theartofrandomwillynillyness.blogspot.com/2009/09/more-goodies.html – blogged
posted about giveaway on facebook as shelly leatham
bleatham(at)gmail.com
I like to group things together in mine, and I clean it out about every two weeks-to one month. That way I am sure not to miss anything so that food doesn’t expire.
Sharing on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1336757180&ref=nf
My favorite tip for the fridge:
3. Add plastic bins or expandable shelves to organize items and better utilize space.
i like the tip label shelves, i need to do that so everyone can put thing back
I think that using a door rack is the tip that would help me the most. I love to use the shoe organizers that hang on doors, so maybe I’ll get one for my pantry door.
This would last me until the end of the year and possibly beginning of next year. Thank you for the offer!
I have made the closet under my stairs into a pantry since my townhome does not have one. I would love to eventually get built in shelves but for now I have the steel ones that are organized very well.
I would benefit most from using smaller storage containers. I often leave the big box in the freezer with only one item in it.
Labeling food in the freezer would help me!
I have finally realized that I have got to start labeling my pull-out drawers. Even at eye-level, I have a hard time figuring out what I have without pulling out each box/can. My little one likes to help put away groceries. This will be a great word-recognition task. Teaching while you put away the groceries!
Thanks for the links! I think I will have a busy morning!
I need to be better at arranging food so I can see it. Thanks for the giveaway!
Use bins and baskets. I love this tip! I have one basket in my pantry and good really use another one or two. My issue is that my mom always had a misc. basket and you never knew what was in that thing so everything went bad. Because of that I’m nervous to add more baskets but maybe if they were labeled as well then I wouldn’t have the same problem.
i like the idea of arranging foods where you can see them. Sometimes I end up buying products needlessly because I didn’t notice them in my cupboards.
I use this one:
Eye-Level Shelves: Store the foods you use most often here
I definitely need to start labeling things in the freezer – I found something yesterday and I didn’t even know what it was!
I like the idea of putting the little bags of frozen veggies into a plastic container in the fridge…that will really help keep it organized….and help keep me from “FORGETTING” that we already have frozen corn!!
I love the tip for making kids snacks accesible.
Label food…no more mystery freezer meats
My favorite idea is installing a door or wall rack for cans and bottles. That’s a great way to utilize dead space. Love this site – thanks so much for sharing it.
First, I will put food for my son where he can reach it in the frig. Second, I will label and date the food in the freezer.
I really need to start making an effort to put appropriate snacks at my child’s eye level in the fridge and in the pantry. That’s such a great idea.
My favorite tip is to organize similar foods together. I also have 2 separate areas that I can stockpile. When the first cabinet is full and I start filling the second cabinet, no one is allowed in the second cabinet until the first cabinet gets emptied. This way we are using the older finds first.
I dont even like getting in my freezer. I need to label things.
Eye-Level Shelves: Store the foods you use most often here.
I find that putting things that might otherwise go to waste at eye-level helps us eat them faster.
Grouping similar foods together, my kids are notorious for just shoving things anywhere.
I need to clean out my freezer and fridge more thoroughly. I love buying little jars of exotic condiments. Sometimes I only use them once, but I think “Oh, I’ll use that again.” So I don’t through it out. I need to do a better job of using/getting rid of old stuff so it doesn’t take up valuable space.
I like the tips of keeping snacks where kids can see them which is a great idea that way they do not have to go digging around for them.
Tip: Arrange foods so that you can see them. Keeping your food inventory in plain sight can help you make shopping lists, put groceries away efficiently and find items faster.
I like the idea of keeping things in plain sight and rotating. You won’t use it if you don’t know it’s there!
I really like the idea of using masking tape on freezer products!
I think the most useful tip for me would be to clean out all the way to the back of the fridge. I have a tendency to just keep shoving stuff in and not getting rid of the old stuff first.
Love the idea of labeling items. Makes menu planning so much easier
I have moved our most used food items to the eye-level cabinets
I tweeted as well.
http://twitter.com/lvoskan
I like the idea of using plastic bins in the freezer. I’ve got lots of little things in the freezer that seem to always find their way to the back, and get lost.
My toddler has mastered opening the fridge so I appreciated the idea of keeping ready made snacks (the ones I want her to eat!) on the low shelves in front so she can find them easily.
I like mealtime.org’s tip on adding plastic bins or expandable shelves to organize items and better utilize space. I don’t know why I didn’t think of that!
I posted on facebook.
And I blogged about your giveaway here: http://couponsaregreat.blogspot.com/2009/09/enter-for-you-chance-to-win-250-grocery.html
I like the organization of the most eaten items to the front of the pantry shelves. Putting the bins in the freezer is another great idea.
I label boxes of dry goods with a marker when they expire so it is large to see. I also label items in the freezer with a date so I know what to use first.
Using bins & baskets is a great idea. I could take the packages out of the boxes and put them into the bins or baskets for easy grabbing.
bins bins and more bins!
I like the idea of grouping like items together, especially for my stockpile. Breakfast, baking, canned goods, pasta, condiments. I can tell someone else exactly where to look when we need something. thanks
I like the idea of labeling freezer items. I have a deep freezer and somethings get lost in it.
I currently have paper reem boxes in our deep pantry that I slide in and out, whenever I need something for baking. Ugh! I found that we’d most benefit from shelves on wheels, like you used for your oatmeal, etc. I could REALLY REALLY REALLY use this grocery store card. My hubby is a teacher and a football coach. We provide snacks, drinks, and extras for the kids that are needy. With your tips, I know we would make the $250 go far. Yay!!!
Allie
The best advice I could TOTALLY use for organizing my freezer is to actually put shelves in it. I live in an apartment and don’t even have shelves in my freezer. I will simply buy one. Living in an apartment reduces my storage space; especially my freezer space. THanks CSWM!!
I just put up on my Facebook page (Samantha Shattuck-Thomas) what’s on my mind for all my friends to see. THanks CSWM!!
Make it easy for your family to help. Hopefully this idea works!
Labeling food in the freezer – a must!
I like the labeling the shelf/drawer idea. That way my husband can know where to find stuff and know where to put stuff away. Baskets or drawer would also be helpful in my very deep but very short shelved pantry (some only 6″ tall)! Thanks for the giveaway.
I also posted on facebook!
So we’re not sure how to “link back” but we did post about your giveaway on our blog. Guess we have some research to do on “back links!”
http://pinchapennynook.blogspot.com/2009/09/pretty-cool-giveaway.html#links
I like the shelf idea although it looks like it may take away space not make more. I would simply just organize and put like foods in one spot. Great ideas!
I was happy to read that i am donig a few tips right!!! I only wish i had more room. I label everything and date-face all like cans forward-I have tall upper kitchen cabinets and i found if i lay my box goods down i can stack several-always pull from the bottom to use first. I even store “stockpiles” under my bed!!!
One of my friends actually posted this on facebook, so now Im gonna do the same thing so everyone knows about it.
using expandable shelving would be great!
the tips that would benefit me most would be cleaning out and labeling items in the freezer and fridge. I alway just stick extra meet that we don’ use into ziploc bags and forget to put the date on them.
“Put ready-to-eat snacks where kids can see and reach them.” This will be my motivating ‘tip of the day’!
I keep a list on my freezer and add to it every time I put something in, and then cross it off when I take something out.
I loved the tip about keeping the foods that need parental approval up high and the heavy items low.
I liked the idea of installing a door or wall rack to store cans and bottles. I hadn’t thought of that and I certainly have the space to add this.
…sorry…nothing new to me, here…. Don’t mean to sound arrogant, but, it’s all just common sense, as far as I am concerned.
I try to organize foods that are similar. When my family helps to put food away it never goes where it should. I am going to use the idea to label my shelves and hopefully that will keep things neat.
The tip I like most and would us is to put thing on Eye-Level Shelves: Store the foods you use most often here. Because I often store things based on height.
i really liked the idea for adding shelves.a i loved your idea for the baby wipes containers.i only have a $144.00 budget for my groceries for the whole month and my family would realy apreciate the gift card. thanks
i really liked the extra shelves idea and i also loved your idea for the baby wipes containers(i have lots).i only have a budget of $144.00 monthly for my family groceries and my little one would really apreciate the gift card. thanks
i love your idea of putting plastic bins in the freezer. i have a hard time arranging the stuff in the freezer and this idea would help. I really hope to win this gift card.
Using plastic bins in the freezer is a great idea! thanks!
I love the shelving eye level, higher/lower tips. I need to reorganize now that school is in and I have so many extras on hand! I also just emailed the Perfect Pantry list to my husband, I see some shopping in our future! What an awesome website, thanks!
I tweeted about the giveaway, Red_Headed_Mama
The tip about using bins, baskets and drawers is an excellent idea! Also, I really like the “Perfect Pantry Checklist”.
Make it easy for your family to help – I thinnk that would be wonderful…is it possible that by reorganizing I could get help???
I like the freezer tip of writing on the package. This way you know the date and whats in the frozen package.
Thanks
matternu@aol.com
tweet
http://twitter.com/velvet1116/status/4106213080
Posted to Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=587886633&share_id=152457716944&comments=1&ref=nf#div_story_152457716944_152457716944
matternu@aol.com
I like the Make it easy for your family to help. Label shelves and drawers to show where food is stored so your family can easily help with meal prep and putting away groceries.
THanks
I like the idea of labeling shelves and drawers so the family can help too
I totally need help in the organizational department. I never thought of using organizing racks in my freezer… what a great idea!
Label label label! That is a task I must start doing. Thanks for the great articles.
My favorite is to label shelves so that the family can help. My family is incredibly blind. If it’s not jumping out at them–they claim it’s not there!!
The door rack. I purchased one and it is amazing how much food I can put on it.
The best tip that for me if for the refrigerator, and that is to clean, clean, clean…..all the way to the back!! This is somthing that I have been putting off for a long time and I really need to do it. Thanks for the inspiration!!
i think the most useful to me would be to label the shelves
tweeted about giveaway @deefna
Best idea for me is to make it easy for others to help by labeling shelves and drawers. I sometimes get frustrated that family members don’t remember where to put things–forgetting that the system makes sense to me because I designed it.
the tip for me is labeling the shelves. This way EVERYONE knows where everything goes. Maybe this will be my project for the week!
I could definitely use some organization skills. #2 for the freezer – Reserve shelves for larger items and ice trays – is something I need to start doing. I’m guilty of tossing wherever things will fit – and finding things later that I didn’t know I had – small things hiding behind larger items.
Tweeted!
http://twitter.com/SavinginStyle/status/4115294754
I think the tip that is the most useful is make it easy for your family to help. Label shelves and drawers to show where food is stored so your family can easily help with meal prep and putting away groceries.
Tweeted:
http://twitter.com/LuckyDuckyToo/status/4117969861
I like Freezer tips, very useful!
1. Store small packages in door racks or freezer bins.
2. Label. So food doesn’t “get lost,” use freezer labels or masking tape to identify food you store in plastic containers or freezer bags. Put the storage date on the label too.
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/tcarolinep?ref=profile shared on FB@tcarolinep JessieKatie S.
Added info and link on my blog.
I really like this tip: Put ready-to-eat snacks where kids can see and reach them. That might be washed grapes or apples; sliced carrot or bell pepper sticks; yogurt, milk and cheese cubes; or juice
Thanks so much for the chance
The tip I need to remember is “Put ready-to-eat snacks where kids can see and reach them.”
tweet: http://twitter.com/speech_hero/status/4119134475
I like the tip – Install a door or wall rack for cans and bottles.
I like the tip about adding racks to the doors. I have no more room in my pantry without stacking all the way to the back where I can see and where items go unnoticed and end up expiring so this would be a huge help for me. I may look for some while I’m out today actually!!!
I picked “Clean out—all the way to the back of the fridge! Getting rid of food that’s expired or that you won’t use frees up refrigerator space” because this is my husband’s favorite way to clean out the fridge and get rid of my “science experiments.” We’ve only been married three years….I am a “work-in-progress.” Thank goodness he has a lot of patience.
I need to start labeling and dating things in the freezer.
I really like the tip of adding plastic bins or expandable shelves to add storage space to the freezer.
I blogged about it. Thanks!
I love the idea of putting bins in the freezer to help categorize items, and also a door rack for the pantry to hold bottles & cans.
Made a post on Facebook about the great door/wall rack idea!
Plastic bins in the freezer would greatly help me to keep everything organized better.
Labeling the shelves would be really helpful!!
Posted on http://megzmakingtime.blogspot.com/
Clean to the back of the fridge! I’m almost afraid to do that, but here goes….
Reusing wipe containers, I like to store seasoning packages in them and they stack easily!
i like to label the food bags in the freezer! thanks,shannon flora
shannpf1977@yahoo.com
i tweeted!!thanks,shannon flora
shannpf1977@yahoo.com
http://twitter.com/shannon717717/status/4131055208
i commented on facebook!thanks,shannon flora
shannpf1977@yahoo.com
I really could use some drawers/organizers to help arrange my pantry!
tweet!
http://twitter.com/uberab by2/status/4133015418
I twittered this – I’m birdwatcherok.
My biggest problem is not labeling the food in my freezer. I always think I’m going to remember what’s in there….
I also posted this as my facebook status.