Splattering Sparrows
February 6, 2013
A Pantry To Be Proud Of
February 13, 2013
Spice Rack Or Cabinet
A Cluttered Mess?
Is your spice rack or spice cabinet working for you? Here I will explore how you can simplify your supply of spices and free up valuable real estate in your cabinet or on your spice rack.
Whether you enjoy cooking or not, most of us have an abundance of spices within our reach. When you need a specific spice, you expect it to be where you can find it. It can be frustrating to discover that you are out of a spice you were sure you had.
Have you purchased a spice simply because you could not remember if you already had it at home? I have, and you know spices are not cheap. So here are my suggestions for organizing your spices in a way that saves you time, money and space.
I love the uniformity of matching clear canisters for spices. This one is great because you have air tight caps and you can easily see the spice inside as well as being label friendly. They are large enough that you are not constantly refilling.
These are especially great if you use the Seville Classics 3-Tier Expandable Bamboo Spice Rack Organizer
The same concept of a spice rack inside of your spice cabinet.
The concept is simple. I find myself buying large canisters of spices to save money. The draw back is they take up too much space in the cabinet. I like to use a reasonably sized jar for each one and store away the larger container for future refills.
If you do not have alternative storage space for these larger spice containers, try this idea: Empty your larger spice containers into labeled (I like quart size) zip lock style baggies. These can easily be stored standing up in a decorative basket for quick refills.
I have 41 different spices. Yes, I counted them. When you consider how much space 41 large containers take up, you will see the practicality of freeing up that space.
Duplicate spices aggravate me so I consolidate mine.
Disclaimer: I know that spices have expiration dates and shelf life. I must confess that I never pay them any attention. Maybe I should, but if I have 3 jars of garlic powder, I will combine them into one zip lock bag. For you I recommend that you pay attention to the expiration dates. 🙂
I am not a gourmet cook so there are many spices that I have never used. If I have a “weird” spice that I only used a year ago, I will toss it.
Seasonal items for me include: poultry seasoning, sage, cloves, Christmas cookie sprinkles, etc… If they are seasonal, why keep them in with the other spices all year long. Label them “Seasonal Spices” and find an out of the way place, to store them.
For those seasoning “packets” that get buried under the clutter, try using an attractive basket or container and keep them all in one place.
Last but not least, carefully place your spices with the labels facing the front. Everything should be front and centered! This gives the space a fresh and appealing look. No more digging! You might actually be inspired to cook something fabulous!
PLEASE CLICK MY AMAZON LINKS BELOW
To Find The Products That you need.
I appreciate your business!!!
  Spice Racks  |
  Spice Cabinet Organizers |
  Lazy Susan |
  Tiered Spice Organizers |
 Door Spice Racks |
 Spice Labels |
  Spice Jars |
15 Comments
Hey Pattio, Have you considered getting a quck folding step stool? This will allow you to store it in a handy location and quick to use. I must say at 5’6″ that has never been an issue for me but when there are things that I cannot reach, I will grab my step stool. Have fun cleaning that closet. That happens to be my next topic. 🙂
for me, my organization is based on if I can reach it, lol! I am 5’2″ and MUCH is out of my reach in the kitchen cabinets. 🙂
I rarely use the top shelf in the cabinet, unless it is for storing stuff I don’t access daily.
Thank you for the post….it reminded me, I have a closet to organize!
When you have “AMummysLife” it’s not always easy to stay on top of the out of sight out of mind things. This is just a sample of how small projects can give you a sense of accomplishment. Not to mention finding that you need when you need it.
When you have “AMummysLife” it’s not always easy to stay on top of the out of sight out of mind things. This is just a sample of how small projects can give you a sense of accomplishment. Not to mention finding that you need when you need it.
Thank you Suerae. I appreciate you coming by and look forward to you coming again!
Great post Susie! I’m inspired by your organizational skills and suggestions. I will be back for sure!
One of these days I am going to have to go through my spice rack and pantry and do a tidy up. Pretty sure I have several duplicates in there!
Thank you Sheila. It won’t take you long and it will make you feel so much better. I am glad you are encouraged.
Angie, I understand how things can get that way. I am glad you are inspired, my job is done. 🙂
Hi Francene, You are fortunate to have a hubby that cooks. My husband only cooks a few dishes but he is the one that always cleans up. He kicks me out of the kitchen when it’s time to clean up. You and I are blessed women.
My spice cupboard needs a major overhaul! Thanks for the tips. And encouragement to actually do it!
Aye you have inspired me to organise my spices. They are literally all over the place on every shelf in my kitchen. (Odd enough I found some oregano in my washroom medicine cabinet a few weeks ago…needless to say that got tossed.) I need to do something to get things organised again. My space is ridiculous!
Love it! I’m an organized person too. Dosn’t do much good though because my husband has taken over the cooking. I hum a blocking tune when I look inside my spice cupboard now–as well as every other cupboard and drawer. Chaos. I’m prepared to ignore the mess. After all, he cooks wonderful meals and washes up after himself.
Thank you Melinda. Give it a try, it will make you feel much better!
I have been looking at my disorganized spice cabinet for months, wondering when I will get around to do something about. You have inspired me. Thanks for a very practical suggestion.