Pantry Shelving Solutions

Add a Freestanding Unit

• For a pantry that is regular in shape, a freestanding shelving unit is a storage option. You can purchase shelf systems in a variety of sizes and materials, such as metal, wood and plastic, to suit your needs. In a large pantry, place several units side by side for maximum storage. Some freestanding units have wheels so you can easily move the shelves around inside or out of your pantry if necessary. Wheeled units can also be added to a smaller pantry that has built-in shelving but requires additional storage space because you leave the unit in front of the permanent shelves and move it out of the way when you need to access the built-ins.

Go With Adjustable Shelves

• The problem with freestanding units is that the shelves are of a pre-determined size, which may not allow you to fit the items and appliances you plan to store in the pantry. To avoid this, opt for an adjustable shelving system that permits you to modify the shelves so they can accommodate your items. Adjustable systems also allow you to place shelves in the corner of the pantry to maximize space. Many adjustable shelving units are made from metal such as steel, so they are extremely durable and can hold a large number of items.

Try Pull-Out Shelves

• For the most convenient pantry shelving option, consider pull-out shelves. Installation is often more expensive, but you can install them yourselves to cut down on the cost. The shelves are designed to pull out from their unit to provide easier access to the items stored in the back. They are ideal for a space like a pantry where you may store a large quantity of items on deep shelves. Pull-out shelves make it much easier to find the items you need when preparing a meal so they can not only save space but also time.

Use Baskets

• If your pantry has built-in shelves but you require additional storage, use under-shelf baskets to maximize space. They are usually small, so they can fit in the space beneath a shelf but can accommodate small cans of food and other items. You can also use larger mesh baskets on the shelves to help organize your pantry by separating items by type and stacking them in the individual baskets.