Building a basement pantry is a great way to take advantage of extra storage space in your home. It’s also a great weekend project that can help you organize and declutter your kitchen. Here is a step-by-step guide for building your very own basement pantry.
1. First, you need to measure the basement walls to decide on the size and layout of your pantry. Make sure to include any doors, windows, and obstructions such as support beams and ductwork.
2. Now decide on the type of storage and shelving you’d like to incorporate. Consider the layout and size of your items so that you can plan for adequate storage and easy access.
3. Next, begin thinking of a design. Draw up some plans to help you visualize the pantry and to get a better idea of what it might look like.
4. Begin buying materials, such as wood, paint, shelves, and hardware.
5. Now it’s time to start building! Start with the framing. Cut and assemble the base, sides, and shelves. Make sure everything is square and securely fastened.
6. Paint and install your shelving, hardware and other items per the plans you created.
7. Lastly, organize your items in the pantry!
You now have a great way to store and organize your items in the basement. Enjoy the extra space and your beautiful, newly built pantry! Good luck!
Where is the place to put a pantry?
The best place to put a pantry is in a kitchen or dining room. This ensures it is easily accessible, as these are two of the most frequented rooms in the home. Ideally, you’ll want to place your pantry in a corner or along an outer wall so you can make the best use of the space and minimize the amount of space taken up.
You can also create an open shelving pantry, which looks great and makes easy access to items. If you don’t have the storage capacity in these two rooms, store the pantry in a hallway closet or adjacent to your kitchen or dining room for convenience.
When choosing a location for your pantry, it’s important to consider the climate in your home. If your pantry tends to get hot or humid, it’s best to install shelves designed to manage the temperature, such as wire or insulated shelves.
Additionally, any food items that are temperature sensitive should be stored in plastic tubs or containers that can be easily moved in and out of the pantry.
How do you store food in the basement?
The best way to store food in your basement is to keep it away from humidity and moisture. If your basement is on the warmer side or has significant moisture, it’s best to choose airtight storage containers when preserving food.
This helps keep moisture and humidity out, as well as bugs and other critters.
In this case, it’s best to look for plastic containers with tight-sealing lids and make sure the lids are securely sealed when storing food. Keep food in a part of the basement that is away from sources of water, like washing machines, water heaters, plumbing, and sump pumps.
Canned foods and jars are great options because they naturally preserve the food inside and can be tightly sealed before being stored. Whole grains, beans, and other bulk items can also be stored provided that the containers they’re stored in are properly sealed.
If you have a cool, dry basement, opt for storing root vegetables, apples, squash, and other fruits and vegetables that last longer in cold and dry environments.
It’s best to rotate the food regularly and check for signs of spoilage, like mold or discoloration. When in doubt, compost the food and start fresh.
Can you add a pantry to a house?
Yes, you can add a pantry to a house. The pantry can be built as part of a kitchen remodel or renovation, or can be a stand-alone space or closet within the house. When installing a pantry, keep in mind the size and layout of the area and think about what will be stored in the pantry.
Depending on the space you have to work with, choose cabinetry and shelving elements to best fit the items you want to store, whether it’s canned goods, small kitchen appliances, mason jars of bulk storage, or a combination of all three.
If your pantry is small, consider using tall adjustable shelving or a corner shelving unit, so you can get the most out of the space you have available. Door options are also an important consideration when adding a pantry to a house, as you may want to choose clear glass doors so you can easily see what items are stored in each section.
Finally, make sure to include items for organization in your pantry project like baskets, wall organizers, and drawer dividers. This will help you keep the items in your pantry neat and tidy at all times.
How much does it cost to add a pantry?
The cost of adding a pantry to your home will really depend on the size, materials, and type of pantry you want. For a simple DIY pantry, you could be looking at around $175-$250 or even more depending on the supplies you need.
However, if you are looking to do custom built-ins or install a large walk-in pantry, then the cost can quickly increase. Typically, custom built-in pantry additions can cost anywhere from $800–$ 2000 or more depending on the material, finish, and size.
Additionally, if you hire a contractor, then you will need to account for their labor as well, which could cost up to $30 per hour.
How much does building a pantry cost?
The cost of building a pantry will depend on a variety of factors, including the size and materials used. On average, you can expect to spend anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000 for a basic pantry that is between 10 and 12 square feet in size.
If you opt for a larger pantry with premium finishes and added features, such as custom cabinets and built-in appliances, the cost can easily climb up to $10,000 or more. Of course, you could always build the pantry yourself, which could significantly reduce the cost.
Labor and installation fees can also add to the total cost. Most professional contractors charge between $50 and $100 per hour, depending on the type of work they’re doing. If you’re hiring a contractor to install your pantry, be sure to get a written estimate ahead of time to make sure you’re on the same page regarding the cost.
Does a walk-in pantry add value to your home?
Absolutely – a walk-in pantry can add significant value to a home. From an aesthetic standpoint, a walk-in pantry instantly provides a luxurious feel to the space it’s in. It makes a home feel more organized and easily accessible, contributing to a more pleasant and enjoyable atmosphere.
Furthermore, a walk-in pantry can provide more storage space for the home, giving you an efficient and organized way to store items that would otherwise take up precious living space. It also provides the convenience of having an extra place to store items that may not need to be accessed as often, such as bulk items or seasonal items.
Finally, a walk-in pantry can also add value to a home from a financial standpoint. It can increase the storage capacity of a home, which can be a major selling point for potential buyers, making it easier for them to imagine how their life would fit into the space.
Additionally, a walk-in pantry can also increase the value of a home due to its aesthetic qualities and the convenience it provides. Ultimately, a walk-in pantry can be a fantastic addition to any home that can contribute to both its look and feel, making it a great way to add value and create an inviting living space.
Are pantries out of style?
No, pantries are not out of style – in fact, they might be more popular than ever. Pantries provide a convenient and efficient way to store food, supplies, and other items, while also freeing up additional storage space in the kitchen.
Many kinds of pantries offer additional benefits, as well. A large walk-in pantry, for instance, could be used to organize items, house kitchen appliances, and offer extra preparation and dining space.
An organized pantry helps create a more efficient kitchen with fewer items out on the counters and shelves. Additionally, built-in pantries, which can be quite attractive when combined with custom cabinetry, help create a cohesive look and improve the overall aesthetic of the kitchen and adjoining spaces.
How do I organize my basement storage room?
Organizing a basement storage room can be a challenge, but with proper planning and the right tools, it can be done in an efficient and organized manner. Start by understanding the overall size, shape and contents of the room.
If you have an abundance of items that need to be stored, you may want to consider adding additional shelves or stackable bins. Take the time to measure the room and the items before you begin organizing.
You can also install wall hooks to hang items or use hooks on the ceiling and walls to maximize your storage space.
Next, you will want to think about how things can be grouped together and labeled. This will help you easily find items when you need them. Sort items into groups and create labels to keep your basement storage room neat and orderly.
Utilize clear plastic totes to neatly tuck items away. Label the totes with a permanent marker so they can easily be identified.
Finally, it’s important to keep the space neat and tidy. Don’t let items pile up on the floor or get crowded on shelves. To maintain the organization of your basement storage room and maximize space, divide items into categories and designate a specific spot for each type of item.
Regularly clean the space and empty and reorganize shelves when needed. With proper maintenance, your basement storage room will be organized and clutter-free for years to come.
What should you not store in a basement?
Basements can be a great home storage solution, but there are certain items you should not store in a basement for safety reasons. Certain items may be too sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity or can be damaged or cause harm if exposed to too much moisture.
These items include food, medicine, electronics, paintings and photographs, paper documents and books, wooden furniture, and items made of fabrics or leather. Additionally, appliances, tools, and hazardous materials such as fuel, lubricants, aerosol cans, and other corrosive substances should not be stored in the basement.
Long-term storage of such items can be dangerous, as exposure to high levels of humidity or gases can cause them to degrade or cause a fire or explosion.
How do I make a freestanding pantry?
Making a freestanding pantry is a great way to create additional storage space in your kitchen. For the frame of the pantry, you’ll need to build a basic cabinet with shelves inside. Consider using MDF board for a sturdy frame and use your desired finishing material to cover it.
Keep in mind the width of your pantry should not exceed one-third of the width of your kitchen. You’ll need to measure the width of the kitchen to ensure your pantry fits.
Next, create shelves or drawers to hold your items. You can either purchase pre-made shelves or drawers, or you can build them yourself. Look for corner shelving that can be added for additional storage capacity.
For the door, you’ll need to make sure it’s the right size. Measure the frame of the opening and then buy a door that will fit. You may also need to buy hinges, a handle, and other hardware to install the door.
When everything’s been built and installed, it’s time to paint or stain your pantry. Consider sealing the wood with a clear sealer to protect it from wear and tear. Once the sealer is dry, add any needed decorations or accessories such as baskets, jars, or baskets.
Finally, place the pantry in your kitchen and add your food, supplies, and other kitchen items. You’ll have a convenient and stylish freestanding pantry that can easily hold all your kitchen items in one place.
Can you store stuff in an unfinished basement?
Yes, you can store stuff in an unfinished basement. However, you should exercise caution when doing so as unfinished basements may present certain risks and challenges. For example, storage of flammable items in an unfinished basement may be hazardous due to the combination of exposed wiring and inadequate fire safety measures.
Additionally, it may be difficult to keep stored items dry in an unfinished basement due to improper or nonexistent waterproofing or the presence of water seepage or other moisture sources. Furthermore, unfinished basements may contain pests, excess dust, and other hazards.
In some cases, it may be advisable to seek the help of an experienced contractor to waterproof or otherwise improve the basement to make it suitable for storage.
When storing items in an unfinished basement, it may be a good idea to take steps to protect your belongings. Look for waterproof containers or consider sealing containers in plastic to help protect them from moisture or other elements.
Consider setting off bug traps or using repellent to keep pests away. Finally, make sure that you install proper lighting in the basement to make any storage easier to access and maneuver.
Can I store cardboard boxes in basement?
Yes, you can store cardboard boxes in a basement. It’s important to make sure the area is dry, since cardboard is liable to become soggy and deteriorate if it comes into contact with water or excessive moisture.
Be sure to check the basement for water or dampness periodically, and inspect the cardboard for signs of damage or decay. If the boxes become wet or damp, take them out of the basement immediately and let them dry in a dry and well-ventilated area.
Additionally, try to keep stacks of cardboard off the ground and in an elevated area, such as a shelf. This will help keep them dry and protected from any moisture that may be coming from below. Additionally, it is a good idea to store the boxes on their edges, as opposed to flat on the ground, to avoid saturation.
Finally, consider wrapping the boxes in plastic or a cardboard wrap to keep them well-protected.
Why you shouldn’t keep cardboard boxes?
Cardboard boxes shouldn’t be kept as a storage medium because they are not an ideal storage solution. Cardboard is not very strong and can easily be crushed or torn. It is also not very moisture resistant and can be prone to mold or mildew growth.
Cardboard boxes can also attract pests such as mice, rats, and insects, making them a health hazard. Furthermore, cardboard boxes can be quite bulky and difficult to store in small spaces. They are also not usually air-tight, which can allow odors to escape, or moisture to enter and cause damage to the stored items.
It is much better to use plastic bins or totes, as they are more durable, stackable and space efficient, allowing you to maximize space in your home. Plastic bins and totes also provide a better means of organizing and protecting the items from pests, mold and mildew.
Is it OK to store clothes in basement?
It is generally okay to store clothes in the basement, especially if it is climate-controlled and kept dry. However, extra precautionary measures should be taken to make sure that the basement remains dry and free of dampness and mold.
Keeping any items away from the walls of the basement and maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the entire area is important. You should also use airtight containers or bins and choose pieces of furniture with open, airy shelving that allows clothes to circulate freely.
Keep in mind that clothing can be vulnerable to temperature fluctuations, so it is best to avoid storing clothes in the basement if they will be exposed to extreme changes in temperature and humidity.
Care should also be taken to inspect the area frequently for signs of dampness or mold and to ensure that there are no signs of pests.