Expert Tips for Organizing Your Entryway
Week 7: Entryway – Organize Shoes & Coats
- Sort through shoes, coats, and bags.
- Wipe down entryway furniture.
- Organize mail and keys.
- Clean and vacuum the entryway floor.
If your entryway has become a clutter zone like mine, you’re not alone. With shoes piling up, coats draping over chairs, and bags taking over every available surface, it’s easy for this space to get chaotic. But a cluttered entryway doesn’t just affect the first impression of your home—it can also leave you feeling stressed every time you walk in. Here’s how I turned mine around with practical tips that anyone can use, along with hacks to make the process quicker and more efficient.
1. Declutter Shoes with Purpose
The first thing you need to do is assess the shoes. It’s not enough to just toss them into a bin and call it a day. Start by pulling out every pair and sorting through them:
- Donate or Discard: Get rid of worn-out shoes or those you haven’t worn in months. If they’re still in good condition, donate them to a local charity.
- Create Storage Zones: For the shoes you’re keeping, designate specific spots like a shoe rack, bin, or entryway cubby. Keep seasonal footwear in clear storage boxes or baskets to easily rotate as needed.
- Hacks: Use a vertical shoe rack to save space and keep shoes accessible. If you’re short on space, hang an over-the-door shoe organizer for a quick fix.
2. Organize Coats and Bags for Easy Access
The next culprit in a cluttered entryway? Coats and bags. To keep things tidy:
- Coats: Install hooks or a coat rack where everyone can easily hang their jackets. If you prefer hidden storage, a mudroom bench with hooks underneath can do the trick.
- Bags: Dedicate a section for bags—whether it’s a basket, shelf, or even a multi-hook system near the door. This prevents bags from piling up and keeps them within reach.
- Hack: Use a stylish basket or bin for smaller bags, ensuring they don’t end up all over the place. A catch-all bin by the door can also help corral hats, scarves, and gloves.
3. Create a Dedicated Spot for Mail & Keys
It’s easy for mail and keys to take over your entry table, but with a bit of organization, you can keep them from becoming a constant headache.
- Keys: Install a small tray or key hook right by the door to keep them always in the same place. A magnetic key holder is another great option.
- Mail: Use a mail sorter or tray to separate incoming, outgoing, and important mail. Take a few minutes every day to deal with the pile—either toss or file it away—so it never gets out of hand.
- Hack: If you struggle with mail piling up, designate a specific “mail sorting” time once a week. This can prevent unnecessary clutter from accumulating.
4. Wipe Down Surfaces for a Fresh Look
It’s incredible what a simple wipe down can do. Dusty tables and shelves can make the whole space feel less welcoming.
- Quick Clean: Wipe down all surfaces, including entry tables, door frames, and light switches. Add a small decorative item or plant to elevate the space and make it feel more inviting.
- Hack: Keep a microfiber cloth or disinfecting wipes near the entryway so you can quickly do a quick clean-up in just a few minutes whenever needed.
5. Vacuum for a Polished Look
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of a clean floor. Sweeping or vacuuming your entryway will instantly improve the look and feel of the space.
- Quick Sweep: Regularly vacuum to pick up dirt and crumbs that accumulate. It’s a quick fix that goes a long way in making the space look cleaner.
- Hack: Invest in a compact, cordless vacuum that can be easily stored by the door, so you can quickly clean up any mess.
6. Bonus Tip: Add Personal Touches
Once everything is organized, consider adding a few personal touches to make your entryway feel like a welcoming space. A stylish rug, a fresh plant, or framed artwork can make all the difference and create a space that feels both functional and inviting.
Conclusion
Transforming your entryway from a chaotic mess to an organized, functional space doesn’t have to take hours. With these simple tips and hacks, you can keep your entryway neat, tidy, and stress-free. After all, a clutter-free entryway sets the tone for the rest of your home—and who doesn’t want to step into a calm, welcoming space every time they walk in the door?
1. Shoe Organization
Vertical Shoe Rack: A space-saving vertical rack to neatly store shoes, perfect for smaller entryways.
Recommended Product: [a d] Seville Classics Sturdy Freestanding Storage Shelf for Bedroom, Closet, Entryway, Dorm Room Organizer Stackable Durable Metal Shoe Rack Espresso Slat, 3-Tier (NEW MODEL). Amazon creator ad link https://amzn.to/4hWlYPz
Over-the-Door Shoe Organizer: An easy and quick way to store shoes without taking up floor space.
Recommended Product: [a d] STORAGE MANIAC 2-Pack Over-Door Shoe Organizers with 12 Large Pockets, Grey. Amazon creator ad link https://amzn.to/44b4FH4
Clear Storage Bins: Perfect for storing seasonal shoes and keeping them visible and accessible.
Recommended Product: [a d] Sterilite 12-Pack Storage Boxes, Stackable Clear Plastic Bins with Snap-On Lids, 6 Quart. Amazon creator ad link https://amzn.to/3RwI9kp
2. Coat & Bag Organization
Coat Rack or Hooks: Installable hooks or a stylish coat rack to hang jackets, bags, and scarves.
Recommended Product: [a d] Umbra Flip Wall-Mounted Coat Rack Rail Hook for Hats, Jackets, Bags and More – Modern, Space-Saving Storage Organizer for Entryway, Mudroom, Closet, Bathroom, Bedroom, Kids Room, or Nursery, 5 Hooks, White/Nickel. Amazon creator ad link https://amzn.to/3FSiaBu
Mudroom Bench with Hooks: A piece of furniture that combines seating with storage for coats and shoes.
Recommended Product: [a d] Bush Furniture Salinas Hall Tree with Shoe Storage Bench in Shiplap Gray and Pure White, Multi-Purpose Home Organizer, Entryway Solution with Seating and Hooks. Amazon creator ad link https://amzn.to/3G3fq45
Catch-All Basket for Bags: A simple basket or bin to keep smaller bags organized. There are so many styles to match your decor. Also, you can choose baskets with lids if you want to hide its contents.
Recommended Product: [a d] StorageWorks Wicker Basket, Baskets for Organizing, Storage Basket with Built-in Handles, Water Hyacinth Shelves (Medium 2-Pack, Natural Hyacinth). Amazon creator ad link https://amzn.to/42tLVBo
Entryway Cabinet with Storage:
- [a d] Huuger Buffet Cabinet with Storage with PE Rattan Decor Doors, Accent Sideboard Buffet with Solid Wood Feet, for Hallway, Entry, Living Room, Natural. Amazon creator ad link https://amzn.to/43HKDnz
2. [a d] Panana Buffet Storage Cabinet with Rattan Decorating 4 Doors Living Room Kitchen Sideboard 48.43 x 34.65 x 15 inch (Natural Wood). Amazon creator ad link https://amzn.to/3Rz4vle
Console Entryway Table with Drawers: [a d] Furologee Console Table with Charging Station & 3 Fabric Drawers, 38” Entryway Table with Storage Shelves and LED Light for Entry Way, Industrial Display Shelf for Hallway, Foyer, Rustic Brown. Amazon creator ad link https://amzn.to/3XHjBc0
3. Mail & Key Organization
Magnetic Key Holder: A magnetic wall-mounted hook to keep keys organized and easy to access.
Recommended Product: [a d] VIS’V Magnetic Key Holder Wall Mount, Compact Metal Key Rack with Tray, 6 Hooks, 2 Mount Options, Black. Amazon creator ad link https://amzn.to/420DkWQ
Mail Sorter Tray: A multi-slot organizer for sorting mail into categories like incoming, outgoing, and important.
Recommended Product: [a d] Mail Organizer, Mail Holder with 2 Slots, Wood Mail Basket. Amazon creator ad link https://amzn.to/42gOx4m
4. Surface Cleaning
Microfiber Cloths: Keep these handy for a quick wipe down of tables, doors, and light switches.
Recommended Product: [a d] MagicFiber Microfiber Cleaning Cloth – 12 Pack, Large 13″ x13” Highly Absorbent Streak-Free Micro Fiber Cleaning Rags Towels for House, Car, Windows, Housekeeping, Household Dusting, Kitchen. I appreciate the cleaning power, quality, and size of the towels which are useful for cleaning glasses, TV screens, and touchscreens on laptops and PCs. The towels hold up well in the wash and are a good size for routine cleaning tasks. The towels are soft and absorbent, but if you need to wipe a lot of fluid then you might want thicker cloths.
Disinfecting Wipes: For a faster, no-fuss clean of your entryway surfaces.
Recommended Product: [a d] Clorox Disinfecting Wipes Value Pack, Bleach Free Cleaning Wipes, 75 Count Each, Pack of 2. I appreciate the surface cleaning wipes for their cleaning power, effectiveness, and value for money. I find them effective for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, leaving a fresh scent. Some customers like the pop-up lid that makes it easy to grab a wipe when needed. However, opinions vary on the moisture level. I don’t have a problem with this as I usually store the canister upside down.
5. Floor Cleaning
Cordless Vacuum Cleaner: A compact vacuum for quick and easy cleaning of your entryway floor.
Recommended Product: [a d] Vacmaster Portable 10.8V 2-in-1 Cordless Stick Lightweight Vacuum Cleaner with 2-Speed Power Control and LED Headlight for Hardwood Floor, Carpet & Pet Hair, Blue. The vacuum has more than one function, the suction power is adequate, and overall has a lightweight design. It works well on rugs and smooth floors, cleaning effectively. The vacuum is easy to use for quick cleanups and keeping rooms clean. It’s simple to assemble and to clean the vacuum.
Entryway Rug: A stylish rug that adds a cozy touch while protecting your floors from dirt and debris.
Recommended Product: [a d] 5×7 Washable Boho Area Rug, Grey Vintage Non-Slip Rug, Low Pile Floral Indoor Rugs, Soft Wool Rug Distressed Print Pattern Carpet.
Amazon creator ad link https://amzn.to/3X17TZt
6. Personal Touches
Indoor Plants: Add a refreshing touch of greenery to your entryway for a more welcoming vibe. If you don’t have the time to take care of real plants, buy the best fake plants that look real! We do that at camp and for certain types of plants at home that are difficult to take care of, too finicky to just be watered in a sunny spot.
Recommended Product: [a d] Hollyone Artificial Snake Plant Potted Faux Sansevieria Trifasciata Plants, 16.5″ Tropical Fake Plants in White Pots. Amazon creator ad link https://amzn.to/3QXqIcF
Framed Artwork: Personalized or framed art can add style and character to your entryway. Many companies offer this service! All done from the comfort of your computer. There are various styles. You can get your image printed on borderless canvas and not use a frame or get your image printed on paper and mat and frame it. Your choice to fit your style.
Recommended Product: [a d] YXIMOX Custom 24″ x36″ Art Print on Premium Canvas, Personalized with Your Image or Design. Amazon creator ad link https://amzn.to/44cOrNF
By incorporating these products, you’ll have a well-organized, stylish, and functional entryway. These products complement the organizational tips shared in this blog and will help create a calm, clutter-free space for you and your guests!
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