It's coming: snow-slush-boots-coats-chaos-in-the-entryway-season. To those like me who aren't lucky enough to have a proper mudroom: it's time to organize our small entryways and allow them to become the small clutter-free mudrooms they yearn to be. A little work now can save a lot of hassle and mopping later.
1. A mat outside the door and a nice natural-fibre one inside that will protect the floor from getting wet and also look nice and define the "entry/mudroom" area.
2. A place to sit and take off and put boots is a must. A bench, one or two chairs or a built-in seat all work. Utilize the space under it for bins, doggie stuff or boots.
3. A row of pegs encourages family members to hang up coats and bags. A lower row for kids makes it easy and doubles your hanging space.
4. Vertical storage solutions take advantage of the space up high for hats, mitts and gadgets for the full-height people in your home. If you don't have a lot of floor space, cubbyhole wall units are even great for shoes and boots.
5. A mirror in the entryway allows everyone to make sure their hat looks cute without having to run back into the bathroom with boots on.
6. Hooks are useful in even the smallest of spaces to hold bags, scarves and umbrellas.
7. Boxes, baskets and bins are your best friend. Try to have one for each family member for hats, mitts, scarves, sunglasses, etc. Also, keep extra socks and slippers in there to warm the toes after taking off wet boots.
There you have it. Not too difficult - a weekend project can get you all set for a season's worth of fewer hassles. Worth it, right?
