Let’s Start Here! Entryway Goals

Coming home is the first thing you see an overcrowded, disorganized space? Shoes kicked off all over the place, coats hanging on doorknobs or railings, and bags and backpacks taking up floorspace? Me too!!! It’s so hard in a busy family with a small entryway to boot (no pun intended to keep these areas neat and tidy. But I just can’t stand the way it makes me feel as soon as I get home and walk in the door… STRESSED…… So I think this is one of the most important places to start and continue to maintain. Creating an organized system for your space is just as important as the actual clean-up and organizing itself. How does your family work and what will work for YOUR family? Every family is different, so your approach will have to be customized to your specific needs.

Here is a free checklist to help you get on your way to an entryway that is organized and will stay organized!

Entryway Organization Checklist

Decluttering and Sorting:

• Coats and Jackets:

  • Hang or store seasonal coats.

  • Donate or discard coats no longer needed.

• Shoes:

  • Organize shoes in a designated space.

  • Remove and donate any rarely worn shoes.

• Accessories:

  • Organize hats, scarves, and gloves in baskets or on hooks.

  • Discard or donate items that are no longer needed.

Storage Solutions:

• Shoe Rack or Tray:

  • Provide a designated space for shoes.

  • Consider a shoe rack or tray to prevent dirt from spreading.

• Coat Rack or Hooks:

  • Install hooks or a coat rack for hanging coats and bags.

  • Ensure there's enough space for each family member or guest.

• Baskets or Bins:

  • Use baskets or bins for accessories like hats, scarves, and gloves.

  • Label each container for easy access.

• Umbrella Stand:

  • Set up an umbrella stand for wet or dry umbrellas.

  • Consider a drip tray to prevent water from damaging the floor.

Functional Furniture:

• Entryway Bench:

  • Provide seating for putting on or taking off shoes.

  • Choose a bench with storage for shoes or accessories.

• Console Table:

  • Place a console table for additional storage.

  • Use drawers or shelves for keys, mail, or small items.

Organizational Accessories:

• Key Holder:

  • Install a key holder near the entrance.

  • Label hooks for each family member.

• Mirror:

  • Hang a mirror for last-minute appearance checks.

  • Choose a mirror with built-in storage, if possible.

• Mail Organizer:

  • Set up a mail organizer for incoming and outgoing mail.

  • Sort and discard unnecessary papers regularly.

Lighting and Decor:

• Good Lighting:

  • Ensure sufficient lighting for visibility.

  • Consider a decorative lamp or pendant light.

• Decor Elements:

  • Add personal touches like artwork or plants.

  • Keep decor minimal to maintain a tidy appearance.

Maintenance:

• Regular Check-ups:

  • Periodically declutter and organize the entryway.

  • Donate or discard items that accumulate over time.

• Seasonal Updates:

  • Rotate seasonal items in storage.

  • Refresh decor to match the season.

Creating a well-organized entryway that is both functional and visually appealing is a great start!

Adjust the checklist based on your specific needs and the size of your entry space. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your entryway clutter-free and welcoming.

Here’s to a FRESHLY organized entryway!