Walk-in pantries can be a source of culinary inspiration or gastronomic distress. A clean, organized, and pretty pantry is oftentimes just the thing we need to break through our cooking rut or eat in a more health-conscious way. Besides, there’s something about a well-organized pantry that helps us think more clearly, get inspired, and feel less anxious.

But what do we do when our pantry is a disaster? Let’s be honest—chaotic walk-in pantries are pretty much the norm. Real life isn’t an Instagram picture. Canned goods get disorganized, cereal boxes travel around the shelves, and small appliances lie forgotten about in dark and dusty corners. The good news is that our pantries don’t have to stay unruly. It’s organization 101: follow these smart tips to make over your walk-in pantry.

Install Deep Shelves

Many times, walk-in pantries are outfitted with skinny plywood or plastic shelves. Make better use of your space by installing deeper shelves (if the space allows). Deeper shelves allow you to store those small appliances you used to have to set on the floor. You’ll also be able to store twice or three times as many goods as before. Just use canisters and boxes to keep things organized. You can even install rollers so the shelves slide in and out for easier access.

Create a Coffee Station

Sometimes pantries have a small wall that just doesn’t work for shelving or is so large that there’s plentiful storage without having to take up a third wall. In either of these cases, a great solution is to create a coffee or breakfast station. Install base cabinets and counters that match those in the kitchen or place a unique hutch along the empty wall. Depending on how much space you have, you can set up a microwave, waffle maker, mug collection, flavored syrups, and even a cute lamp!

Let In the Light

Walk-in pantries tend to be dark (and sometimes creepy) places. A smart tip to make over your walk-in pantry and make it appear bigger, brighter, and more appealing is to install a frosted glass door. Not only will your kitchen look more modern, but you will also appreciate the filtered natural light in an otherwise gloomy space.

Use Labels

No matter how well organized your pantry is, you (or a family member) are going to forget where things go. Avoid this by giving everything a well-labeled home. Use glass canisters to store noodles, cereals, and grains. You can use clear, white, or neutral-colored containers to store larger items such as canned goods, snacks, and treats. Once you put away your foods, remember where they’re at by applying adhesive labels. You’ll never forget where the pasta sauce, batteries, extra school supplies, or muffin mix is again!