9 Must-Have Features to Include in an Efficient and Amazingly Functional Mudroom
Spring has arrived and so has the rain and mud we all look forward to every year….Just Kidding!
Okay, maybe not everyone looks forward to the messiness and extra work created during the time of year when “April Showers bring May flowers”……but it’s a necessary problem we have to deal with every Spring whether we like it or not!
Yesterday, my son and I were getting ready to take a quick shopping trip at our local grocery store. As we arrived, my son said, “I hate Springtime because there’s so much rain and everything is so wet & muddy!”
Almost as if he were middle-aged and had already experienced immense displeasure with multiple wet & muddy Spring seasons, instead of only 7. He was most certainly disillusioned about the problematic reality of trying to avoid the mud puddles and sinking in the backyard sogginess while trying to play outside.
Anyone who has tried to keep the muddy mess contained to one area completely understands the need for a well-designed space to help make Spring’s muckiness more easily dealt with.
So here is a list of nine ideas to include in your mudroom design that can make the process of cleaning up and organizing much easier when your children return from the soggy grass and mud puddles they have been jumping in.
- A Sink/Counter area: to clean off muddy boots and shoes and rinse out the socks and clothing that have been coated with the signs of spring would be a super addition to any mudroom if your space and budget allow for this.
- Hooks for Hanging: you would also benefit from a dedicated area for hanging jackets, coats, gloves, hats, umbrellas, or keys …whether it’s just some sturdy heavy-duty hooks or an open area with a rod and hangers to keep some air flowing between the wet pieces so they can dry.
- Bench with shoe storage: Install a built-in bench with storage cubbies underneath for shoes and boots, which also doubles as a convenient spot to put on or take off footwear.
- Baskets or Bins: Use baskets or bins on shelves or under benches to contain smaller items like mittens, pet supplies, or sports equipment, all the while keeping everything organized and out of sight.
- Boot Tray or Mat: Place a boot tray or waterproof mat near the entryway to catch dirt, mud, and water from shoes and boots, protecting floors from damage.
- Coat Closet Conversion: Convert a small closet or open shelving into a mudroom/entryway area by removing the door and adding hooks, shelves, and baskets/storage bins to contain all the necessary outdoor clothing and/or sports gear and accessories.
- Laundry Hamper: Incorporate a built-in laundry basket or hamper to have a designated place to collect all the dirty clothes, towels, and linens as they are taken off/used to always keep this busy room organized and tidy.
- Labeled Cubbies: Incorporate some personalized cubbies for each family member to have a designated place for their items, such as gloves, hats, and sunglasses. This will easily encourage everyone to put their belongings away creating organization and instant access, without having to search every time something is needed when heading out the door.
- Drying Rack: By installing a wall-mounted or retractable drying rack in your mudroom, you have a designated spot for hanging up wet coats/jackets, hats, gloves, and scarves. This will be needed during wet or snowy weather.
So, there you are…. 9 super practical and functional ideas to add to your mudroom or entryway design to enhance your organization and to make daily activities easier and more efficient to keep up with to enjoy a tidy and beautiful space.
