In this house, we buy groceries in bulk. Not because we’re a big family that runs through food and toilet paper quickly, but because shopping at Costco is the best way to get our money’s worth. Our dollar stretches further with two crates of almond milk and a jumbo pack of paper towels (plus, you really can’t beat those gas prices), so even though we’re only two adults, it’s hard to pass up. There’s just one caveat: Buying food in bulk might be best for our budget, but we don’t exactly have the storage space to support it. Every time we come home with multiple 22-ounce bags of chips and 12 pounds of rice, I wonder where we’re going to put it all.

Somehow, we manage to get everything stuffed into the pantry, but it’s not uncommon for us to stack a few non-perishables on the garage floor, too. After years of this disorganized cycle, I decided the pantry desperately needed a change, so I called in a professional. How do I continue to shop in bulk for my wallet’s sake, but create a bulk storage solution for my own?

Here is what Meaghan Kessman, professional organizer and founder of Meaghan Kessman Home, recommended for storing bulk food in a small pantry. Prices start at $15.

Professional Organizer-Approved Pantry Must-Haves

Flrolove Glass Food Storage Containers Set

“There’s nothing that instantly elevates a pantry quite like matching glass storage containers,” Kessman says. “This set of five is perfect for storing dry goods like sugar, rice, cookies, and spices while keeping everything airtight and fresh. The bamboo lids give them a natural, clean look that makes your pantry feel effortlessly put together.”

You can also use these containers to store other dry goods, including beans and pasta, or liquids like vinegar, honey, and even wine.

Kessman’s additional pro tip: “Label each jar, so everyone in the house knows where things go—it makes maintenance a breeze!”

iDesign Turntable Organizer

“Lazy Susans are one of my go-to solutions for deep pantry shelves or tricky corner spaces,” Kessman explains. “This beautiful wooden turntable adds warmth to your pantry while keeping your most-used items easily accessible. Just give it a spin, and no more digging to find that hidden bottle of olive oil.”

At Kessman’s suggestion, this has become my new hack for storing Kirkland’s 2-liter bottles of olive oil. Both fit into a 64-ounce mason jar (or a half-gallon). I store one mason jar with a pouring spout on the counter, and the other one on the lazy Susan inside the pantry, along with a 16.9-fluid ounce bottle of balsamic vinegar and an aerosol can of cooking spray.

Kessman’s pro tip: “Use this for oils, vinegars, or sauces to prevent sticky spills from spreading across your shelves.”

iDesign Collection Storage Bin

“Open bins are a game-changer in the pantry, especially for grouping similar items together,” Kessman says. “These wooden storage bins not only look great, but also have built-in handles for easy grab-and-go access. Use them for snack packs, baking supplies, or bulk goods to keep everything neatly contained.”

Kessman’s pro tip: “Stick to one bin per category—snacks in one, baking supplies in another—to create an easy-to-maintain system.”

Yahuan Bamboo Wooden Storage Box

Previously, I was using a box like this in my living room to store miscellaneous items, like remote controls and the Meta Quest. But that was before Kessman’s tip made me realize this 9.84 x 9.84 x 7.09-inch box can hold a whole lot of fruit snacks. I’m snagging another one for the big box of Chewy bars I get at Costco, too.

“Sometimes, a simple storage cube is exactly what you need to keep pantry items from becoming a jumbled mess,” Kessman explains. “These bamboo bins are great for holding bagged items like potatoes, onions, or even coffee pods. Plus, the natural material adds a touch of warmth to your pantry shelves.”

Kessman’s pro tip: “Stack these bins on lower shelves for easy access to bulkier pantry items.”

HBLife 5-Liter Glass Rice Dispenser

Costco’s 12-pound bag of rice has been a constant thorn in my side (but namely, my pantry) for some time now. However, Kessman’s glass rice dispenser recommendation is the ideal solution that’s about to change my pantry for the better. Although, like me, you may want to size up to the 8-liter version.

“If you buy in bulk, this dispenser is a total game-changer for keeping large quantities of pantry staples organized and easy to access,” Kessman says. “Storing bulk items like rice, flour, or cereal in their original packaging can lead to messy spills, torn bags, and wasted space. This glass dispenser solves that by keeping everything contained in an airtight, easy-to-use system.”

Kessman adds, “The built-in measuring cup means no more digging for a scoop, and the wooden stand makes it feel like a thoughtful design piece rather than just another storage container.”

Kessman’s pro tip: “If you stock up on bulk dry goods like oats, lentils, or pasta, consider using multiple dispensers to create a streamlined and uniform look on your pantry shelves. It not only keeps everything fresh and accessible but also makes it easy to see when it’s time to restock.”

Savvy & Sorted 160 Expiration Date Pantry Labels 

As always, stick-on labels are a must-have no matter which room or area you’re organizing. Proper labeling is the most effective way to keep your organizing system in order—no matter how many people you share the household with.

“One of the biggest challenges in pantry organization—especially if you buy in bulk—is keeping track of expiration dates,” Kessman explains. “These waterproof, write-on labels make it easy to mark the ‘best by’ or ‘use by’ date on your containers, so nothing gets forgotten in the back of the pantry. Whether you’re storing flour, snacks, or meal-prepped ingredients, a quick label helps prevent food waste and ensures you’re always using the freshest items first.”

Kessman’s pro tip: “Pair these labels with airtight storage containers and dispensers for a fully streamlined system. Write the expiration date on the label as soon as you transfer food to the container, and place newer items behind older ones to follow a first-in, first-out system.”