Containers are a little like that pair of expensive shoes you want-you love them, but do you need them? It's true that dry goods last longest in airtight containers, but those containers can also take up a lot of space since they're frequently half-empty, and if they're not see-through, you don't instantly know what's in them. And then there's the time factor. "It may look neat, but transferring every little cracker and marshmallow into containers is not how I want to spend my time," says Marrero.
So what are containers good for? The stuff you buy from bulk bins, like nuts or rice. (You'll also want to use containers if you're worried about bugs or rodents, which can eat into cereal boxes and candy bags, as can the moths and larvae that live in grains.) Containers are especially good for foods stored on kitchen counters or open shelves, where looks matter. If you need containers, here's how to do it:
Be square. Square bottoms take up less space, as do Read More »from Pantry Containers 101








