Every home has an entryway, but not all of them have a mudroom. An entryway is quite literally any door that leads into the house, and most often opens up into either a foyer or a living room. A mudroom on the other hand, is usually situated at the back or side of the home and usually serves as an all-in-one space containing furniture such as shoe organizers, coat racks, or storage benches all to leave muddy shoes, backpacks, coats, and hats upon before entering into the house itself. These entry spaces are often difficult to keep organized due to the fact that they often act as a catch-all for the daily comings and goings of a household. Even if you don't have a designated mudroom, having an organized entryway can set the tone of how you begin and end your day. Here are a few entryway storage ideas and DIY tips and tricks you can use to organize your everyday items without a mudroom.

Designate an Entryway

Choose this space based on where you and your family enter your home the most, no matter which side of the house this might be on. Even if it is a small entryway, the addition of space-saving storage furniture can help turn it into an organized multi-functional area where you and your family can stash your outdoor items in an orderly fashion.

Install Wall Hooks & Add a Bench

Wall hooks are lifesavers when it comes to entryway storage. They can be used to organize items such as coats, baseball hats, and purses. Double hooks add even more storage space. Designate one or two hooks to each family member, so everyone knows exactly where to hang their items. Add an entryway bench to set laptop bags, diaper bags, or car seats on. This functional piece of furniture will help keep items off the floor and out of the way. Additionally, you can utilize the space beneath your bench for shoe storage – or better yet, choose a shoe bench with built-in cubbies to maximize your space.

Add a Hall Tree

For the entryway organizer that does it all, a hall tree is a great investment. They provide a range of storage options including hooks, shoe cubbies, shelves, and even a bench, making the perfect multi-functional space-saving piece. Add storage baskets for small items such as dog leashes and harnesses for when you take your four-legged friend for a walk.

Try a Coat Rack

An entryway coat rack is ideal for the winter months. Perfect for storing coats, umbrellas, and other winter items within easy reach. Not only can you hang up your damp items, but storing them on the rack will free up space in your bedroom closet.

Get an Entryway Bench

Winter brings with it a whole new wardrobe - scarves to match each coat, coordinating mittens or gloves, and hats for every occasion. Whether you’re a family of two or more, keeping track of all that outdoor gear can be a hassle, especially if you have little ones.
Adding a bench to your entryway – no matter the size – can easily solve this problem. An entryway bench is perfect for outdoor gear and can double as seating when you’re preparing to face cold temperatures outside, whether you’re leaving for work or school or just heading out to have some fun.

Paper Storage

Paper clutter is everyone’s enemy! Use wall-mounted mail and key wall organizers to give order to incoming mail and miscellaneous papers. Alternatively, designate a paper organizer for mail, bills, homework, and anything else that is helpful for your family. Likewise, you can use one paper organizer per family member so that everyone has a space to put their papers when entering the house.

Set a Budget

If you keep your space simple with a small bench and hooks, then you can expect to spend $100 – $400. If you want to give your entryway even more function by adding in additional storage for small items and paper, you should budget $200 – $700.

When creating entryway storage without a mudroom, one last thing to remember is making sure your everyday essentials all have a home. As long as you and your family know where something should go, there is a higher chance you’ll put it there.

For all of your entryway storage essentials, be sure to browse our selection.

Emily Fritsch is an interior decorator, designer, and blogger who helps overwhelmed homeowners and DIYers bring timeless design and function into their space, so they can love their home and the life they are building within it. Follow along with her at liliesandlife.com and over on Instagram!