Organize The Entry
The entryway is always a high traffic area. With everyone coming and going, it can be a drop zone that gets messy and becomes a magnet for clutter. But with a little work and some simple tips, you can easily streamline everyday gear and get those belongings in order.
Check off this organizational goal for 2020 and get started with these simple tips!
Matt | Boot Trays Right out of the door, avoid wet or muddy floor, by using a boot tray for your family’s shoes and boots. If a plastic tray isn’t appealing, try a bathmat as an alternative. It allows for easy cleaning with a quick vacuum and the ability to throw it in the washer.
If you don’t have a lot of space, place it under a bench or inside a closet. Store when not in use.
Shoe Storage We tend to have a lot of shoes and if you have several members of the family, the shoes are probably taking up a lot of room. Try these tips to get them under control.
Only keep seasonal shoes by the door.
Limit the amount each person has in this space.
Use sturdy baskets for storage. (metal with fabric insert or a rattan version) This option makes it easy to throw shoes in one place while keeping things looking neat.
Product Tip: Check out Ikea’s shoe tower storage options. It’s an all contained piece of furniture that houses several pairs of shoes for each member of the family.
Storing Coats, Jackets & Accessories Keep those closets tidy by using these organizational tips.
Hang coats by each family member. Hang in one direction dark to light, heavier to lighter weight material. This makes it easy for each person to find their coat and know exactly where to put it away.
Invest in wooden or hangers of the same color. Stop using dry cleaner hangers. They tend to bend and always look haphazardly.
Store accessories in baskets or bins. Label by seasonal items or family members. Use labels large enough for everyone to easily see.
Product Tip: For a quick hack, try using a nameplate. Take a look at the Dollar Store or a craft store for an inexpensive version. Hot glue to the outside of the basket for a clean upscale look.
Sports, Work or Daycare Bags Families have a lot of activities these days and if you’re like most there’s probably a lot of equipment and bags to keep track of. Designate a place in the closet or locker storage for each by a family member. Use hooks to keep bags off the floor. Limit how many are in the space at one time. For those of you that have several activities, keep the ones in current use. Store excess bags (out of season) in another room.
Locker Storage & Benches If you have more room in your entry, a locker storage furniture unit is a great addition. They come in a variety of sizes and make it easy for each member of the family to have his/her own cubie. Hooks and baskets give optimal storage for everyday gear. Another great option is the use of a bench. It adds a place to sit to take off shoes and has an area underneath for additional storage.
Congrats on a Job Well Done! I hope these tips help and inspire you to get your entryway in order. If it looks great, and the system is fairly easy to use, it will keep you motivated to keep it orderly long term.
If you like this article but don’t think you can tackle this project on your own, please get in touch. I'd love to help you create an eye-pleasing entryway you and your family can manage and enjoy.