Free Standing Kitchen Pantries Made Simple

Having ample and organized storage space in the kitchen can make all the difference when it comes to cooking efficiency and reducing clutter. While custom built-in pantries may not be an option for every home, free standing kitchen pantries provide an affordable and versatile storage solution.

Outfitting your kitchen with a free standing pantry unit allows you to add storage exactly where you need it. Read on to learn more about maximizing your kitchen layout with one of these practical storage additions.

Reasons to Consider a Free Standing Kitchen Pantry

There are several compelling reasons to look into adding a free standing pantry cabinet in your kitchen:

• No existing pantry space. If your home layout does not already include a walk-in or reach-in pantry, then a free standing unit allows you to create dedicated storage.
• Extra storage required. Even if you already have some pantry storage, a free standing cabinet provides additional space for kitchen essentials and appliances.
• Cost savings. Rather than investing in a full kitchen remodel to accommodate new built-in pantries, a free standing piece is budget friendly.
• Flexibility. Free standing pantries can be relocated as needed if you decide to reconfigure your kitchen down the road.
• Organization. Designate zones for food items, small appliances, dinnerware sets and more to keep everything tidy.

Key Features to Look For

Today's free standing kitchen pantries offer much more than just plain cabinet space. Here are some key features to look for when selecting a unit:

• Durable materials like wood, metal or high density composite.
• Adjustable shelving allows customization of storage zones.
• Doors, drawers and interior storage compartments.
• Pull out baskets provide easy access to items pushed towards the back.
• Spice organizers, towel bars, integrated lighting and more helpful accessories.

Size Considerations

One of the first factors to consider is the size of free standing pantry that will fit in your available kitchen footprint. Be sure to measure the width, depth and height of the space you plan to place the unit.

Standard interior heights range between 72 and 84 inches, while widths span anywhere from 12 inches for narrow filler units to 48 inches for more spacious pantries. Depth is commonly between 12 and 24 inches.

Layout and Design

Browsing pantry design photos is a great way to conceptualize how to incorporate one into your existing kitchen. Consider how it can complement your current cabinets, appliances and furnishings.

Try to align the new pantry with the established flow of kitchen traffic and food prep zones. Filler units tuck nicely into corners and narrow nooks, while larger pieces create visual impact placed along a wall or at the end of cabinets.

While wood is the most prominent material used, metal wire, laminate and solid hues are also options to match with your decor. Opt for neutral, warm or bright accent colors depending on the vibe you want to achieve.

Where to Place Your Free Standing Pantry

Finding the optimal spot to introduce your new free standing kitchen pantry will ensure it gets put to good use. Consider these prime locations:

• Underused corners or narrow spaces between existing cabinet runs.
• Near busy work triangle zones for quick access to staple ingredients and tools.
• Adjacent to the refrigerator, oven or primary kitchen pantries for intuitive access.
• At the edge of breakfast nooks or dining spaces to eliminate trips back and forth.
• Entryways that connect hallways or mudrooms to the main kitchen.

Tips for Measuring Your Layout

Grab a measuring tape and jot down notes about potential pantry spots before visiting showrooms or browsing online. This will allow you to narrow down the exact dimensions needed.

Pay attention to ceiling height, doorway widths, existing under cabinet depths and any protruding moldings or light fixtures overhead. Having these measurements handy ensures proper clearance and footprint size.

Transport and Assembly Tips

Once you have selected the ideal free standing kitchen pantry for your needs, properly transporting it home and executing assembly are critical next steps:

• Review detailed manufacturer instructions before getting started.
• Carefully load the packaged unit to avoid damage en route.
• Clear ample workspace to unpack and assemble the components.
• Adjust leveling feet underneath to prevent rocking and shifting.
• Secure the pantry to wall studs at the top and sides for stability.
• Attach all hardware tightly, allowing doors and drawers to open and close smoothly.

Preparing the Installation Space

Ensure you have fully cleared out the intended installation zone before attempting to move your new free standing kitchen pantry into position. Eliminate any existing furniture or wall hangings.

Sweep and vacuum the floor space so components can sit flush against the ground. Cover nearby surfaces with protective cloths in case of spills or scuffs during assembly.

Filling and Maintaining Your Pantry

Congratulations, your new free standing kitchen pantry is ready to be filled! Follow these guidelines to keep it in peak form:

• Group like food items together for intuitive access while cooking.
• Use clear storage bins and shelving dividers to organize contents.
• Stow lesser used small appliances and serving pieces towards higher shelves.
• Clean interior surfaces regularly using the manufacturers recommended method and cleaning products.
• Periodically inspect for loose hinges, knobs or fixtures that may require tightening.

Creative Storage Ideas

Take full advantage of every inch of storage real estate inside your new free standing kitchen pantry with these clever ideas:

• Mount spice racks, paper towel holders and stainless steel bins on the interior sides of doors.
• Use shelf risers to create extra layers of clearance for stacking items.
• Designate a shelf or drawer just for overflow so older items get rotated out first.
• Store cookbooks upright using bookends to keep pages cleanly fanned out.

FAQs

Got questions about choosing and integrating a free standing pantry? Here are answers to some commonly asked questions:

How much do free standing kitchen pantries typically cost?

Cost varies widely based on size, materials and features included. Plan to budget $250-500 for more basic units while larger custom pieces with more storage accessories run $1000 and beyond.

What are the standard dimensions?

While custom sizes exist, most free standing pantries are between 25-36 inches wide. Interior height spans from 72 inches up to 84 inches tall. Standard depths range from 14-24 inches.

What materials can they be constructed from?

Wood is the most popular, particularly oak, maple and walnut varieties. Wire shelving, laminate and metal are also used, often featuring a blend of materials throughout one piece.

Which brands offer exceptional quality and selection?

Top manufacturers praised for durable materials and storage functionality include Rev-A-Shelf, ClosetMaid and Rubbermaid. Amish custom shops also craft beautiful solid wood pieces.

What issues could potentially arise?

Proper anchoring to the wall is crucial to prevent tipping. Also be vigilant of moisture exposure which can cause wood surfaces to warp over time if not promptly cleaned.

The right free standing pantry introduces form and function to flex underutilized kitchen corners while addressing chaotic cabinets and a lack of organization.