Pantry Upgrade Using the Container Store Elfa Organization System
Upgrading our builder-grade pantry had been on my to-do list since the day we moved in. While the pantry technically worked, it lacked the storage and organization we actually needed for daily life. Shelves were sparse, items were stacked on the floor, and it quickly became a cluttered catchall rather than a functional space. Every time I opened the pantry door, I felt overwhelmed instead of organized.
If you’re dealing with a pantry that feels chaotic or inefficient, this pantry upgrade using the Container Store Elfa organization system might be exactly the solution you’re looking for.
Why We Chose the Container Store Elfa System
After researching different pantry organization options, I decided to schedule a free in-home design consultation through the Container Store website. The process was simple and surprisingly efficient. Our designer came to the house, measured the pantry, and asked detailed questions about how we use the space and what we needed to store.
She took into account everything from small appliances to snacks, dry goods, and kid-friendly storage. The final design felt thoughtful, functional, and customized to our family’s habits.
For materials, I chose a combination of gray metal shelving and birch wood shelves. To keep the design feeling high-end while staying budget-friendly, we used full birch wood shelves at or below eye level and metal racks with birch trim for the higher shelves. This balance added warmth without significantly increasing the overall cost.
Then it was time to put it in action! Follow these simple steps:
Removing the Existing Pantry Shelving
Before installing the new Elfa system, the old builder-grade shelving had to go. I removed the shelves by knocking them out of their brackets
with a rubber mallet. Once the shelves were removed, I used a metal scraper and hammer to pull the drywall anchors from the wall.
As expected, the anchors left behind fairly large holes. I filled all of them with joint compound and sanded the area once it dried. Since I knew the walls would be covered with wallpaper, I wasn’t overly concerned with making the patches perfect. The goal was simply to create a smooth, flat surface so the wallpaper would adhere properly.
To remove the current shelving, I used a rubber mallet to knock the shelves out of their brackets. Then, using a mix of a metal scraper and a hammer, I pulled out the brackets. The brackets were all drywall anchors, so they left pretty large holes. I used joint compound to fill the holes and then sanded them flat once the joint compound dried. To be honest, I wasn’t super particular about making these look nice since I knew I’d be covering the space with wallpaper, I just made sure they were flat and smooth enough so the wallpaper would adhere nicely.
Wallpapering the Pantry
I chose peel-and-stick wallpaper for this pantry upgrade, assuming it would be the easiest and most affordable option. While it was less expensive, it definitely wasn’t easier. In my experience, prepasted or paste-the-wall wallpaper is much more forgiving and easier to reposition.
This particular wallpaper had a vinyl finish, which was a plus because it’s wipeable and pantry-friendly. However, installation was challenging, and repositioning the paper caused a few rips along the way. While I wouldn’t discourage using peel-and-stick wallpaper altogether, I would recommend it only for small spaces or for those with patience and experience.
Before I go on too long about wallpaper, check out my post on all things wallpaper here.
Installing the Elfa Pantry System
Once the wallpaper was complete, it was time to install the Elfa system. This was hands-down one of the easiest DIY installations I’ve ever done.
Everything needed for installation came with the system, aside from basic tools like a level and drill. The instructions included a QR code that linked to the Bilt app, which provides step-by-step guidance with videos and audio instructions. The app walks you through each part of the installation process in a very user-friendly way.
In addition to the general installation instructions from Bilt, the Container Store also provides custom design measurements that show exactly where each shelf, drawer, and component should be placed. This made the entire process feel approachable, even for someone who doesn’t install shelving systems regularly.
The Bilt app shows you videos and talks through them explaining the steps. It looks like this: 
One feature I really appreciated was that the system included clear plastic shelf liners for both the wood and wire shelves. These liners make the pantry much easier to clean and prevent small items from tipping over.
Organizing the Pantry Layout
Before placing everything back into the pantry, I took time to plan where each category of items would live. My main goal was to get small appliances off the kitchen countertops. When we built our house, I requested an outlet inside the pantry, which ended up being one of the smartest decisions we made.
With the flexibility of the Elfa system, I was able to move our toaster, Keurig, and Baby Brezza into the pantry. I added a shallow drawer under the Keurig for k-cups and a deeper drawer below for baby food and formula.
On the opposite side of the pantry, I created a zone specifically for kids. This included a shallow drawer for snack pouches, followed by drawers for snacks, kids’ bowls and cups, and baking supplies.
Choosing Pantry Baskets and Storage Containers
While the Container Store offers a great selection of baskets, I decided to check a local Hobby Lobby first. I found exactly what I needed and timed my purchase with their weekly 50 percent off sale, cutting my total cost in half.
I used a mix of basket styles to keep the pantry visually interesting while still cohesive. A small round basket with woven and water hyacinth textures works perfectly for fruit on the first shelf. Rectangular water hyacinth baskets hold cereal boxes and chips, while scalloped woven baskets store candy, medicine, and smaller pantry items.
Mixing textures helped the pantry feel styled rather than purely functional.
Final Thoughts on the Elfa Pantry System
This pantry upgrade completely changed how we use the space. Everything is easier to access, nothing is stored on the floor, and the pantry finally feels intentional and organized. The Elfa system is flexible, beginner-friendly, and easy to install with just a drill and a level.
If you’re looking for a DIY pantry upgrade that makes a big impact without being overly complicated, the Container Store Elfa organization system is absolutely worth considering. It’s one of those projects that improves daily life in a very real way, and the results feel just as good as they look.
Products Used:
- Elfa System (link to the website for designing)
- Drill
- Level
- K-Cup organizer
- Acrylic shelves for cans
- Hobby Lobby Round Basket for Fruit
- Hobby Lobby Rectangle Baskets
- Hobby Lobby Scallop Baskets
- Wallpaper
FAQ
Q: Is the Container Store Elfa system worth it for pantry organization?
A: The Container Store Elfa system is worth it for pantry organization if you want a flexible, customizable solution that maximizes vertical space. It allows shelves and drawers to be adjusted over time, making it ideal for growing families or changing storage needs.
Q: How much does a pantry upgrade with the Elfa system cost?
A: The cost of an Elfa pantry system varies depending on size and materials, but most pantry upgrades range from $800 to $2,500. Choosing a mix of wood and metal shelves can help balance budget and design.
Q: Can you install the Elfa pantry system yourself?
A: Yes, the Elfa pantry system is designed for DIY installation. With basic tools like a drill and level, most homeowners can complete the installation in a few hours using the provided instructions and the Bilt app.
Q: Is peel and stick wallpaper a good option for a pantry?
A: Peel and stick wallpaper can work well in a pantry, especially if it has a vinyl finish that is easy to clean. However, it can be harder to install than traditional wallpaper and requires smooth, well-prepped walls for the best results.
Q: What is the best way to organize a family pantry?
A: The best way to organize a family pantry is to create zones for appliances, snacks, baking supplies, and everyday essentials. Adjustable shelving systems like Elfa make it easy to customize storage so frequently used items stay within reach.
