Shopping in bulk at Costco is a great way to save money and stock up on essentials, but without proper storage solutions, your pantry can quickly become cluttered, and food may go to waste. The key to successful bulk food shopping is efficient organization and long-term preservation.
Whether you’re storing dry goods, freezing meals, or optimizing pantry space, having the right storage tools can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll explore 13 must-have bulk food storage solutions that will help keep your food fresh, organized, and easy to access.
Ball Mason Jars $12.99/16 oz
Glass jars are a great way to store dry goods such as grains, pasta, and dried beans. They provide an airtight seal that keeps food fresh and protects it from moisture and pests.
Usage Instructions
- Wash and dry jars thoroughly before use.
- Pour dry goods into jars, leaving a little space at the top.
- Seal the jars tightly and store them in a cool, dry place.
Nesco Snackmaster Pro Dehydrator $69.99
A food dehydrator is perfect for preserving fruits, vegetables, and meats by removing moisture, which extends their shelf life significantly.
Usage Instructions
- Slice apples thinly and remove the core.
- Place the slices on dehydrator trays.
- Set the dehydrator to 135°F and let it run for 6-8 hours.
- Store in an airtight container.
Seville Classics Commercial Shelving Unit $89.99
For those who buy in bulk, additional storage space in a basement, garage, or storage room can help keep overflow items organized and accessible.
Preparation Instructions
- Assemble the shelving unit according to the instructions.
- Arrange bulk items neatly, keeping frequently used items easily accessible.
- Store food in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
FoodSaver Vacuum Sealer – $99.99
A vacuum sealer removes air from storage bags, keeping food fresh for longer by preventing freezer burn and oxidation.
Preparation Instructions
- Place chicken in vacuum-seal bags.
- Use the vacuum sealer to remove air and seal the bags.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to a year.
DYMO Label Maker – $29.99
A label maker ensures that your bulk items are well-organized and easy to identify, helping you keep track of expiration dates and food categories.
Preparation Instructions
- Print labels for bulk storage items, including name and date purchased.
- Stick labels on jars, bags, and containers for easy identification.
- Regularly check and update labels as needed.
Amazon Basics 5-Tier Wire Shelving $59.99
Additional shelving helps maximize storage space and keeps your pantry uncluttered.
Preparation Instructions
- Assemble the shelving unit.
- Store bulk food items, cleaning supplies, and paper goods on the shelves.
- Ensure proper ventilation and keep items in a dry, cool place.
SimpleHouseware Stackable Can Rack Organizer $28.99
A can organizer prevents clutter, makes cans easily accessible, and ensures proper stock rotation.
Preparation Instructions
- Place the can organizer in your pantry.
- Arrange cans based on expiration date (older cans in front, newer ones in the back).
- Use labels for better organization.
Silicone Muffin Tin $12.99/12-cup
Freezing in single portions using muffin tins or ice cube trays prevents waste and makes meal prep easier. You can freeze soups, sauces, casseroles, or mashed fruits in individual portions for easy defrosting.
Preparation Instructions
- Fill muffin tins with portions of mac and cheese.
- Freeze for 3-4 hours.
- Pop out frozen portions and store them in an air-tight container or freezer bag.
- To reheat, microwave for 2-3 minutes or bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
Chest Freezer $249.99/7 cubic feet
or bulk frozen items, such as meats, frozen vegetables, and pre-made meals. It prevents overcrowding in your main freezer and extends food shelf life.
Preparation Instructions
- Wash and dry blueberries thoroughly.
- Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Freeze for 2-3 hours.
- Transfer to freezer bags and store in a deep freezer for up to 12 months.
Glass Storage Containers $24.99
Air-tight containers help prevent oxidation and food spoilage. They’re ideal for storing dry goods, fresh produce, and leftovers while maintaining freshness.
Preparation Instructions
- Store uncooked brown rice in an air-tight container.
- Keep it in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture buildup.
- Cook as needed by boiling in water for 30-40 minutes.
Freezer Storage Bins $19.99/4 set
Proper freezer organization prevents food waste and makes items easier to find. Using flat-bag storage, labeling, and file holders helps maintain order.
Preparation Instructions
- Pour soup into freezer baggies and lay them flat to freeze.
- Once frozen, store upright in a labeled file holder.
- To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove.
Removable Label Stickers $9.99/100 pk
“Use First” stickers help track food rotation and prevent waste. Place them on older items to ensure they’re consumed before newer ones.
Preparation Instructions
- Place a “Use First” sticker on older canned goods.
- Store newer items behind them.
- When cooking, grab the item with the sticker first.
BPA-Free Food Storage Bags $14.99/50 set
Dividing bulk items into smaller containers makes them easier to access and prevents food from going stale. Perfect for nuts, seeds, grains, and baking essentials.
Preparation Instructions
- Divide chia seeds into smaller storage bags or glass jars.
- Keep a portion in the pantry for easy access.
- Store the rest in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
Bulk shopping at Costco is a smart way to cut grocery costs and ensure you always have pantry staples on hand. However, without the right storage solutions, it’s easy to lose track of what you have or let food spoil before you can use it. By investing in airtight containers, vacuum sealers, freezer organization tools, and proper shelving, you can extend the shelf life of your groceries and keep your kitchen running smoothly. With these 13 bulk food storage ideas, you’ll be able to maximize space, minimize waste, and make the most of your Costco hauls!
