As we approach a brand new season, we also enter a time with more sporting equipment, layers of clothing, school supplies and clutter!
Fall is a fun season for many reasons, but it can also be the busiest. Mudrooms and entryways are the main “hub” of your home, but these central locations are the setting for most of the action in the house, from putting shoes on in the morning to unloading sports equipment at the end of the day. Simple set-up, maximizing space and easy storage solutions are keys to success.
Instead of having this area become known as the “dumping ground,” Jane Abrahams, Founder of Jane’s Addiction Organization in Port Washington shares her tips for keeping each family member organized this fall season:
Use Baskets and Bins to Categorize
Baskets, bins and boxes are all excellent, easy and efficient storage tools for having an organized mudroom. You can separate and categorize items by bin, such as shoes, hats, and equipment or assign a basket to each member of the family. No matter how you organize it, never regret using these handy pieces.
Invest in a Dual-Purpose Storage Bench
A bench offers seating for putting on shoes and boots, but it can also be the best-hidden treasure of incredible storage space! Use the storage inside the bench to house extra equipment, accessories and seasonal items that are not used regularly. The look of a mudroom is usually one that we admire in magazines but it can become a reality with beautiful yet functional bench.
Hooks are Key!
Wall hooks organize bags and jackets. Coat hooks are great accessories for any mudroom. For a simple solution and easy accessibility install variety of hooks are hung where young children can reach them. Kid-friendly is kid!
Boot Trays
Your boots need a dedicated space to dry! Place a plastic boot tray on the floor at the main entranceway. It’s the perfect solution to keep mud and snow off the floor and from slipping with wet floors.
Umbrella Storage
A simple bucket is more useful than it looks. From umbrellas to canes, baseball bats or rolls of craft paper, this genius but often overlooked addition will be right at home in your organized mudroom.
Build a Hat Rack
Vertical storage ideas are often overlooked, but with the right design, you can organize all the “stuff” and keep items off the floor and stored with just a little bit of wall space.
A Message Center
Since most of your family will pass through your mudroom or entryway at least once per day, a handy message center to organize notes, calendars and even homework is a brilliant addition. Try a corkboard or a chic whiteboard with magnets.
Use the Space Wisely
Even if you don’t have an entire room for an entryway or mudroom, you can still create mudroom storage in a small space. Smart units, such as a flat shoe storage cabinet, are an excellent way to keep shoes hidden and off of the floor while also adding table space.
