Before the baking sheets come out and the guests start rolling in, it’s worth taking a few minutes to make sure your pantry is ready for the season ahead. A quick cleanup now can save you time, stress, and multiple last-minute grocery runs later.

Check the Basics

Start with your everyday staples — flour, sugar, salt, oil, spices, and baking powder. Make sure nothing is expired, clumped, or running low. If you bake only once or twice a year, replace old leavening agents (they lose power over time).

Restock Essentials

Keep extras of what you know you’ll use often: canned broth, evaporated milk, pumpkin purée, pie crust mix, and your favorite spices. Having these on hand means fewer emergency store trips during the busy weeks ahead.

Organize for Easy Access

Group items by use — baking supplies, canned goods, snacks, holiday-specific ingredients. Use baskets or clear bins to keep smaller items visible and prevent duplicates from hiding in the back.

Toss & Donate

Check expiration dates and remove anything past its prime. Nonperishable items you won’t use but are still good can be donated to local food pantries, which see increased demand this time of year.

Prep for Entertaining

Stock up on beverages, crackers, nuts, and quick appetizers. These simple add-ons make it easy to host drop-in guests without extra effort.

A tidy, well-stocked pantry is the secret weapon of a smooth holiday season — one less thing to think about when the kitchen gets busy.

🕯️ Brought to you by The Current — helping local households stay organized, prepared, and ready to celebrate.