Who doesn't want more storage for their entryway? In all actuality, you don't need a large amount of square footage in your home to have a mudroom. Carving out even a small mud room in your home will provide more storage space and functionality. Regardless of the current layout of your home, these mudroom storage ideas are meant for homes of all sizes. Follow some of these ideas below to transform your main entryway into an area that will work for your family.
A Space for Everyone
Many folks with a family larger than two people will designate a spot for each member of the family. You can even label cubbies, lockers, or cabinets with a marker so your family gets in the habit of putting things back where they belong. This system creates accountability and makes keeping things organized a team effort. It's also much easier to find what you're looking for when the entire family's items are located in the same area.
Build a Command Center
Having a command center with a calendar, to-do lists, grocery lists, and other planning items is an excellent way to never forget about an appointment or important meeting. To create a space in your mudroom area for a command center, use chalkboard paint and some old frames or opt for a cork-board instead to store important documents and notes.
Maximize Vertical Space
Don't underestimate the function of tall shelving or cabinetry in an entryway or mudroom area. Store items in the upper units that you don't need on a daily basis, like out-of-season wear. You can also use these upper shelves or cabinets to add some decor onto, which will help the mudroom blend in with the style of the rest of your home.
Closet Conversion
Perhaps there isn't a separate space or room for a mudroom in your home. Another idea would be to convert a coat closet into a space that functions like a mudroom. If you live in an older home, chances are you have a coat closet at the front entrance instead of a more contemporary mudroom. Take off the doors to the closet, build in a bench, add some lockers, shelving, or cubbies. Keeping this space open makes sure the space doesn't become a place for clutter that belongs in other parts of the home. Store coats with hooks instead of hangers to maximize space. However, perhaps you would still like to have the the ability to close the space off, maybe incorporate a barn type door and rail for a more modern look.
Multi-Use Reserve
Maybe your pantry space could also double as a mud room. Mud room spaces near the kitchen doubles a pantry for extra grocery goods. Open shelving makes items easy to find, and a bench keeps even top-shelf storage within reach. Converting your pantry to double as a mud room can incorporate out door wear storage as well as drawers and cabinets for your groceries and kitchen supplies.
Smart Storage
Canvas tote bags offer a clever alternative to mudroom basket storage; just grab your bag and go. Customize the totes by name or use.
Include Bench Seating
The functionality of a mudroom is enhanced when there is a place to sit and take on and off shoes. If you decide on an open bench, add baskets, cubbies, cabinetry, or shoe mats underneath for storage. An organized mudroom space really does clean up all the clutter of day-to-day life. Even a shallow space, like the one pictured here, can function as a mudroom with creative storage design.
Incorporate Cabinetry
To make your mudroom as attractive as possible, mix in cubbies with cabinetry. Keep any unsightly items inside the closed cabinets to keep your mudroom looking clutter free at all time.
Use of Shiplap
Shiplap has become a very popular look, especially when incorporated in the design of a mud room or laundry room. Using shiplap inside of the locker bays or integrated into the cubbies spaces can really enhance the look and appeal of the mudroom space.
