Halloween is days away! Before you are overwhelmed and wondering where you are going to keep all those treats without your kitchen looking like a candy shop explosion, here are some ideas to organize that trick-or-treat stash and even put some of it to good use (beyond just eating it!)
Step 1: The Great Candy Sort
First things first: sort the candy! Once you return home, it’s time for the candy haul! Have your kids sort their candy into categories—such as chocolates, gummies, and hard candies—and use this time to inspect the treats for anything unwrapped or suspicious.
This is not only fun, but it’s also a great opportunity to sneak in a little lesson about organizing and decision-making! And, of course, it’s easier to keep track of what you actually have.
Step 2: Create a Candy Control System
Once you’ve sorted the candy, it’s time to decide how much is staying. Halloween is fun, but we don’t need that candy sticking around until next Halloween (or worse, next Christmas!).
- Set limits: Decide as a family how much candy each person can keep. Maybe each kid gets a small container for their stash, or you designate a drawer for treats that everyone can share.
- Portion out treats: Use small jars, zip-top bags, or stackable containers to divide candy into manageable portions. This is especially helpful if you want to limit how much candy is eaten at once (hello, portion control!).
Pro tip: If you’re worried about sugar overload, consider making a “Candy Bank” where kids can exchange their candy for small prizes or experiences!
Step 3: Smart Storage
Candy can last for several months if it is stored properly. Store in a cool, dry place like a pantry or drawer, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Clear containers: These make it easy to see what you’ve got. opt for small jars or bins that you can label by candy type.
- Out-of-reach but accessible: Store candy in a high cabinet or pantry shelf where the kids need to ask for it. This cuts down on sneaky sugar runs!
- Treat drawer: If your kitchen has the space, designate a drawer specifically for treats. Use small dividers to keep everything organized.
The goal is to keep it organized but accessible so the treats don’t take over your entire kitchen!
Lifespan of Candy
- Hard candies: Can last up to a year at room temperature
- Soft candies: Last 6-9 months if opened, or 12 months if unopened
- Candy corn: Lasts 3-6 months if opened, or 9 months if unopened
- Caramel: Lasts 6-9 months, or up to 12 months if stored properly
- Gum: Lasts 6-9 months if the packaging remains sealed
- Dark chocolate: Can last up to two years
Pro Tip: Don’t Mix Candies! Have you ever grabbed a Reese’s from the Halloween stash only to have it taste like a Peppermint Patty? Avoid mixing candies that absorb moisture, like hard candies, mints, and caramels, with candies that lose moisture, like creamy candies and fudge.
Step 4: What to Do with Extra Candy? Donate It!
Now, let’s talk about the extra candy. After a few weeks, the excitement fades, and there’s usually still a surplus of sweets. Instead of tossing it or letting it go stale, consider donating the extra candy to people who might appreciate a sweet treat! Here are a few ideas:
- Operation Gratitude: This program sends care packages to U.S. troops, veterans, and first responders. You can donate your leftover candy to brighten their day!
- Ronald McDonald House Charities: Some local chapters accept candy donations to bring joy to families staying at the Ronald McDonald House while their child receives medical care.
- Local shelters or food banks: Check with your local shelter, food pantry, or community organization to see if they accept candy donations. It can be a sweet surprise for families in need.
- Dentists or orthodontists: Some dental offices have candy buy-back programs where kids can exchange their candy for prizes or cash—and the candy gets donated to a good cause!
Step 5: Get Creative!
If you’re not ready to part with all of the candy just yet, get creative with how you use it!
- Bake with it: Chop up those mini candy bars and use them in cookies, brownies, or ice cream sundaes.
- Craft with it: If you’ve got more of the non-chocolate variety, use candy for crafting! Think gingerbread houses…
- Holiday re-gifting: Did someone say stocking stuffers? (Okay, maybe this is a little sneaky, but hey, it’s practical!)
Halloween candy doesn’t have to take over your home! With a little organization and creativity, you can keep things tidy, limit the sugar rush, and even spread some sweetness to others in need. The trick is finding the balance between indulging and managing the madness. Happy candy sorting and Happy Halloween!