Pantry Glow-Up

A little order, a little charm—and a whole lot of joy.

There’s something deeply satisfying about opening a pantry and seeing everything in its place. No rummaging, no mismatched boxes, no visual clutter—just rows of jars and baskets labeled with intention and beauty.

A pantry glow-up doesn’t have to mean a full renovation. Sometimes all it takes is a thoughtful edit, a few containers, and the right labels to turn a chaotic cupboard into a calming, functional space that actually makes you want to cook.

1. Step One: Empty & Edit

Before the glow-up begins, clear it all out. Wipe the shelves, toss expired goods, and group what you use most often. This part feels overwhelming at first, but there’s magic in the reset.

Pro tip: Use shallow baskets to group like items—snacks, baking, breakfast, etc.

2. Choose Your Containers Wisely

Glass jars are my go-to for dry goods. Not only do they keep everything visible and fresh, they add that timeless charm we all love. Combine them with woven or wire baskets to hide less aesthetic packaging—think chip bags, backstock, or refills.

Look for stackable containers if you’re tight on space, and always measure your shelves before buying in bulk.

3. Label It All

This is the fun part. Labels bring order and elegance to the space. Whether you prefer bold black, crisp white, or a cozy countryside vibe, cohesive labels are what pull it all together.

In my own pantry, I use labels from my Etsy shop (linked here with my favorite jars). They’re waterproof, oil-resistant, and thoughtfully designed to be both functional and beautiful.

I label:

Grains & flours
Nuts & seeds
Snacks & cereals
Baking staples
Coffee & tea
Oils & vinegars
Spices (drawer labels work wonders here!)

4. Keep It Sustainable

A pantry doesn’t have to stay perfect to stay functional. Build systems you can realistically keep up with. Choose containers that are easy to refill. Label jars for everyday staples. Give overflow items a “backstock bin” so they don’t pile up.

5. Enjoy the Everyday Beauty

This is more than just a pantry project—it’s a mindset shift. When the everyday feels beautiful, we treat it with more care. Even the small act of making toast or packing lunches feels a little sweeter when you’re greeted by a tidy, intentional space.

Final Thought

Your pantry can be both practical and poetic. It can serve your family while reflecting your style. And with the right labels, even the most ordinary shelf becomes something special.

If you do a pantry glow-up of your own, tag me @dwelingco—I’d love to see it!