How to Organize Spices to Create a Chef-Worthy Kitchen
Learn how to organize spices with these unique storage hacks, easy solutions, and effective tips that will help you to create a kitchen that is efficient. Discover how proper storage can keep your spices fresh, easy to get to, and your entire kitchen neater.
Use these ideas to take your kitchen organization to the next level, streamlining where you cook and eat.
I love spices, and when I can experiment with them, it opens up a world of flavors with my recipes. Having a large collection is a great way to have fun in your kitchen. But that brings with it a unique challenge. How to store spices in a way that makes it easy to find what you need quickly.
Many people feel overwhelmed with spice organization because they accumulate lots of them over time without a clear system for storing or categorizing them.
The result? Cluttered cabinets. Shelves that are a collection of chaotic piles of bottles, bags, and containers.
It’s time to find an effective method that can help you keep track of what spices you have and when they were purchased.
How often should you organize your spices?
Spices should be checked and straightened every 6 months to ensure they are still good to use and you are not purchasing duplicates.
This regular check helps you toss out the old or expired ones while uncovering hidden spices you might have forgotten. It’s a great way to keep your collection fresh and your cooking exciting.
How do you know if a spice is still good?
Your first clue is the expiration date on the container. If there isn’t one, you can check for changes in color, smell, and flavor. These are reliable indicators of freshness.
Remember, spices don’t necessarily go ‘bad’ in a harmful way. They just lose potency over time. If you’ve forgotten to label them, do your best to remember approximately when you bought them.
Most ground spices keep their peak flavor for about six months to a year, while whole spices can last up to four years. If in doubt and they seem dull or odorless, it might be time to replace them.
A good rule of thumb is to write the date of purchase on the container and use that as your guide for when to replace.
1. Organize spices in a cabinet
Storing spices in a cabinet is a great way to keep a lot in a small amount of space. A cabinet also allows you to use different-sized containers without having to invest in bottles. Incorporate stadium shelving to make it easy to see your entire collection in one glance.
There are many storage solutions available, including DIY and store-bought options. You can use wood or plastic or repurpose a narrow cardboard box, turning it into a riser.
2. Make a wooden spice drawer organizer
Wood’s versatility and durability make it a popular choice for those looking to create a custom spice storage solution inside of a drawer.
Wood’s natural aesthetic can also enhance your kitchen’s visual appeal.
Making a DIY wooden spice drawer organizer can be straightforward if you have basic woodworking skills and tools. Measure your drawer, cut wood to the appropriate sizes, and assemble the pieces. This project is a good option for those who enjoy DIY tasks.
If you not a fan of DIY there are many varieties of drawer systems you can purchase and begin using today.
Jadehom Spice Drawer Organizer, 4 Tier Clear Acrylic Expandable From 13
YouCopia SpiceLiner Adjustable Spice Drawer Liner, 10ft Roll, Sandstone, Seasoning and Spices Bottle Organizer InsertFamhap Spice Drawer Organizer, 6 Tier Expandable from 11.6Tinamo Wood Spice Drawer Organizer – Acacia Wooden Tray Spice Racks Organizer for Cabinet Storage Shelf – 4 Tier Spice Rack Organizer for Drawer 64 Jars (Pack 8)
3. Organize spices in a wall-mounted spice rack
A wall-mounted rack is a great way to keep your spices neatly organized and also to bring a touch of decor to your kitchen.
This type of organizer is a great option especially if you have a small kitchen. They also make spices easily visible and accessible, which is great for those who cook often.
Where should you hang a spice rack?
It’s best to mount the spice rack away from sources of heat and moisture, such as stoves and sinks. Heat can cause spices to lose their flavor more quickly, and moisture can lead to clumping.
4. Use a Masala Dabba
A Masala Dabba is a traditional Indian spice box that serves as a convenient way to store and organize a variety of spices within easy reach. This method of storage is a great way to add some culture and uniqueness to your kitchen.
Usually made of stainless steel, you may also find them made of wood. The main container is round and has a snug lid to keep spices fresh. Inside are smaller, individual compartments or small bowls holding different spices.
It can store about seven to nine small containers inside, depending on the size of the Masala Dabba itself.
5. Make a DIY Test Tube spice rack
A test tube spice rack offers a fun creative way of storing spices. It’s made up of several glass tubes, each holding a different spice.
The glass tubes are stored in a rack that has holes drilled to fit the size of the tube with a rubber stopper at the top to keep them from falling out. If this DIY option is more time-consuming than you want to invest right now, you can also find them online.
24 Pcs 50ml Flat-Bottomed Transparent Test Tube with Aluminum Screw Caps,Non-breakable Clear Plastic Organizer with Leak-Proof Lids,Plastic Storage Tubes for Candy,Bath Salt,Granules and LiquidsGisafai 2 Pcs 25 Holes Stainless Steel Test Tube Rack Z Shape Test Tube Rack Z Shape Centrifuge Tube Organizer Suitable for Tubes of Dia. ≤16mm 3 Tier Test Tube Storage Stand for Science LabsHand Made Test Tube Spice Rack, Wooden Rack with 12 Borosilicate Glass Test Tubes (6Steve Spangler’s Large Plastic Test Tubes & Rack, 6 Bottles & 1 Rack
Using tubes to store spices isn’t the most common method, but it has gained popularity among those who appreciate its novelty and how it showcases the spices’ colors and textures.
Using this rack can definitely make you feel like a scientist in your own kitchen.
6. Store spices in a lazy susan cabinet
A Lazy Susan is a spinning tray that lets you quickly get to what you need with just a quick turn.
It can be placed anywhere, allowing you to fully utilize the space you have available. Whether on your kitchen counter for easy access while cooking or inside a cabinet lazy Susans are a great tool to use for spices.
Making your own Lazy Susan to store spices is a fun and rewarding project.
- For a cabinet-friendly version, choose a round base that fits comfortably inside your cabinet, like a wooden circle or a sturdy plastic plate.
- You’ll also need a rotating mechanism, which you can find at most hardware stores or online.
- Make sure that the mechanism is centered and securely attached for a smooth rotation.
Quick DIY Option Using 2 Round Cake Pans:
- Fill one cake pan with a single layer of marbles.
- Place the other cake pan on top.
- Fill with spices and begin using!
- The marbles allow the top pan to turn easily, giving you a quick lazy Susan.
If you love that hack, you’ll love these other lazy Susan Hacks for your home!
7. Transfer all the spices from their original jars to glass ones
Transfer spices from their original jars to a uniform set of containers.
Matching jars save space since they fit together better than the mix-and-match jars spices usually come in.
This way, you can easily see and grab what you need without digging through a cluttered cabinet or accidentally buying more of what you already have.
Having all the same containers gives a more cohesive and organized look to a space. Be sure to label each jar and make a note of the “use by” date.
8. Label your spices
Labeling your spices is like giving them their own little name tags, making it super easy to spot exactly what you need when you’re in the middle of cooking. Labels will work in any setup and where you put the labels will all depend on how you have things set up.
- On a shelf – put labels on the front.
- In a drawer – put labels on the lid.
Tips for using labels on spices
- Make sure the labels are waterproof if they’re going to be near any messes or splashes in the kitchen.
- You should also include the purchase or expiration date on the back so you know your spices are always fresh.
- If you’re feeling creative, try using chalkboard labels or tags; they’re great because you can easily update them if you decide to switch out a spice.
9. Use mason jars and handwritten labels
Mason jars and handwritten labels? This combination blends functionality with a personal, rustic aesthetic that many find appealing for their kitchens.
Mason jars are durable and widely available, with an airtight seal to keep spices fresh.
Handwritten labels add a touch of personality and make it easy to identify each spice at a glance.
Kraft paper is an excellent choice for labels. Use a fine-tip permanent marker to prevent smudging or fading. Then, include the date of purchase or expiration to keep track of freshness.
10. Organize bulk spices
Using a funnel when transferring spices to jars avoids spills and makes the process cleaner and easier.
Then, store them in a cool, dark place, like a pantry or cupboard, to keep them fresh and ready to elevate your dishes!
11. Use expired spices in other ways
When you’re tidying up your spice collection and come across expired ones, think of it as a chance to repurpose them in innovative ways.
Use them for household hacks like freshening carpets, deterring pests, making DIY potpourri, and even crafting homemade soaps.
Also, expired spices can serve as ingredients in natural cleaning products, mothball alternatives, and even garden aids.
Expired spices can serve as versatile tools for a more sustainable and fragrant home.
Organizing your kitchen extends beyond just spices! It involves sorting all your essentials, creating a space where everything has its place.
Having an organized kitchen makes cooking and baking more fun and allows your creativity to flow freely.
