Simplify Fall 2018- Pantry Clean Out and Inventory

I try to clean my pantry every few months.  I clear everything out, check dates and take inventory.  I also do this in my cold room (where I store some dry goods) and my freezers.  It is a great way to take stock of what you have, what needs to be used and what you may have too much of.

In Progess:

After:

Tips:

• Remove absolutely everything.  You may be surprised at what you might find.  My hubby will sometimes move items in the pantry to the top shelf.  I never know what is up there.  This time, I found a large bag of chocolate chips that I thought I had forgotten to buy.  
• Vacuum and wipe the shelves so they are clean.
• Read the best before dates and decide what needs to hit the trash.
• Store like items together.  (I feel like a broken record with that line.)
•  Evaluate your inventory and try to base your meal planning around what you already own.  It will save you money.

How often do take inventory of your pantry?