While most homes treat the mudroom as a place to store shoes, wet clothes, fishing and skiing gear, it is possible to transform this storage area into a warm and lovely extension of the home. Here are some ideas and suggestions to organize the mudroom into a well-organized and attractive area.
Mudroom Storage
One of the main purposes of a mudroom is to store everything that cannot be stored in the main house. This will include muddy shoes and wet clothes as well as larger items such as sports equipment, seasonal clothes, rarely used appliances and tools. Backpacks, bags and purses are also, stored in the mudroom at times.
Storage systems, therefore, are very important. While the basic shoe racks and clothes stand will be needed , it will also be a good idea to invest in sturdy wall storage racks as well as durable plastic boxes. Another good way of increasing storage options in the mudroom will be to declutter and maximize existing space. Do read Declutter Your Space for more on getting rid of clutter.
Mudroom Furniture
Furniture in the mudroom should include a bench to sit on while removing shoes. There should also, be a few cabinets or closets to hang up jackets, parkas, raincoats and other heavy and seasonal clothing. Organize closets so that adults and kids have separate sections. For mudrooms that double up as laundry rooms, an ironing board will also be needed.
Use a clothes rack for wet clothes to hang on while they dry. If the mudroom is used to store bags, backpacks and purses, a separate rack will be needed. Shoe racks will also, be a part of mudroom furniture. Use furniture that can serve more than one purpose. For instance, a bench that has storage space beneath or wall mounted racks with hooks for key rings. Do read How to Buy Mudroom or Entryway Furniture for more on choosing the right items.
Use Space-Saving Options
If cost and space are a constraint, it will be a wise decision to use space saving and budget-friendly ideas to maximize mudroom storage. Use hooks and racks that can be hung behind doors and on walls for backpacks, purses, clothes and even, keys. Hanging or folding clothes racks are useful for small mudrooms. Use a large storage trunk that can double up as a bench. Invest in cheap filing cabinets to hold miscellaneous items. The article Five Ways to Create Extra Storage Space offers more details on maximizing available space for storage.
Beautifying the Mudroom
Although the mudroom is a utility area more than anything else, it is essential that it looks pretty and inviting. Add a few curtains, a durable rug, a foot mat at the entrance to rub muddy boots on and some pictures. Paint the walls in a cheerful color and add some life by using greenery and flowers.
These small touches will make the mudroom look bright and nice, making you want to keep it organized and tidy all the time. Let it reflect the warmth and personality that shines through the rest of the house and at the same time, be a holding area for items that need to be kept hidden.
Prerna Malik - Prerna Malik is a professional freelance writer, business blogger, social media expert and obsessive organizer.
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