Last Updated on April 21, 2025 by teamobn
Tired of the chaos that welcomes you every time you enter your home? Those shoes all jumbled up, bags and coats on the table, and keys you can’t easily find when you’re about to leave — the sight of it can really give you a headache!
The term mudroom originated from the British where the home would have a room just for the sole purpose of housing worn boots, dirty shoes, and other dirty items. In the United States, the mudroom is used to store more than just dirty shoes. This room is used to store anything before the inside of your home.
So how do you improve your mudroom to get things back in order? Here are some ideas that should help you redesign that space to suit your needs and stay organized!
Every part of a mudroom can be designed in a number of ways, depending on your situation or needs. Space is also another factor that will tell you which ideas can work and which won’t.
Clever Mudroom Storage Ideas
We hope that from the ideas we share below, you find one or two that will really improve the look and function of your mudroom.
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Use Baskets
If you don’t like the sight of shoes lined up in your entry, use baskets to hide them under your bench if you have one.
Hang Shoes
Now if you don’t have a bench or you don’t like keeping used shoes inside containers, here’s a space-saving way to store them. Use hooks or rods, or build shoe pegs so that you can hang all your shoes on the wall. You can know more about the wall shoe organizer shown in the first image from The Project Addict.
Put a Drip Station
Is it always raining or snowing? Set up a drip station to avoid wet and muddy floors! Read more about the drip station and the entire mudroom in the first image on Liz Marie Blog.
Use Cubbies
Cubbies and baskets are great storage ideas for small items like mittens and caps. Label each of them accordingly, and now you have neat storage for all your stuff with ease of access.
Install Hooks
Install hooks under or near your mudroom door for coats, handbags, and anything else you want to hang up as you enter. Your entry should be your home’s most welcoming space, and you want to make it as easy as possible to remove your outerwear, especially if the weather is rainy or snowy.
It’s a great idea if you have a wide wall area or if you don’t have a lot of items to hang.
Use Rods
If you think hooks won’t be able to accommodate all the jackets and bags everybody is regularly using, use rods and hangers — just like a closet! The DIY Nurse shows you how to transform a space into a wonderful mudroom as shown in the first image.
Assign a Station for Each Member
And of course, it will help to divide the mudroom so that each and everyone in the family has his/her own station. This way, belongings aren’t mixed up or misplaced. Plus you don’t have to be bothered no matter how disorganized they are as long as they keep it to their stations! 😉
You can also add blackboard paint for leaving notes like in the first example. Learn how to do it here.
We hope these mudroom organization ideas helped you think of a way to improve your own space. If you have additional ideas, please don’t hesitate to share them with us through the comments section!
Built-In Mudroom Storage Solutions
A cluttered entryway can overwhelm even the most welcoming home. Built-in mudroom storage is one of the best ways to keep your space functional, organized, and stylish. Whether you’re working with a small nook or a dedicated mudroom, built-in features offer smart and permanent solutions that adapt to your daily routine.
Built-In Benches with Hidden Compartments
A bench isn’t just for sitting. A well-designed built-in bench can serve as the foundation of your mudroom storage setup. Add a flip-up lid or front-facing drawers to stash away shoes, umbrellas, and reusable shopping bags. This keeps clutter out of sight but always within easy reach. If your mudroom is narrow, opt for a wall-mounted bench that still allows space beneath for baskets or trays.
Individual Lockers for Family Members
Assigning a built-in locker to each family member is a game-changer. Everyone gets their own space for coats, shoes, school bags, and personal items. Include hooks for hanging jackets and adjustable shelves for flexibility. Lockers also create visual order and prevent items from being mixed up. This personalized approach to mudroom storage reduces morning stress and encourages responsibility in younger kids.
Overhead Cabinets and Upper Cubbies
Make the most of vertical space with cabinets or open cubbies installed above your bench or locker area. These can hold seasonal gear, sports equipment, or items you don’t use daily. Keep off-season items like winter scarves or beach towels tucked away until needed. To make things more accessible, use labeled bins or baskets. Closed cabinet doors help maintain a tidy look, while open cubbies offer quick access.
Shoe Drawers or Slatted Shelving
Shoes often take over a mudroom if not given a dedicated spot. Built-in drawers with vented fronts or slatted shelves can solve this problem. These options keep your floors clear and reduce mess during wet or muddy days. Slatted wood helps air out damp footwear while maintaining a sleek, custom finish. Deeper drawers can even hold boots upright without folding or creasing.
Integrated Mail and Key Stations
Consider adding a built-in message board, charging shelf, or drawer specifically for daily essentials like keys, wallets, and mail. This turns your mudroom storage into a command center that keeps your whole household running smoothly. Cork boards or chalk paint panels also allow you to leave notes or reminders for family members.
Design Details That Blend Function and Style
Built-in mudroom storage doesn’t have to look utilitarian. Match your cabinetry to your home’s interior design. Use high-quality wood, beadboard panels, or custom hardware to elevate the space. Paint colors can also bring harmony between the mudroom and the rest of your home. Choose finishes that are easy to wipe down and durable enough to handle daily wear and tear.
Investing in built-in mudroom storage creates a space that stays organized no matter how busy life gets. It’s an upgrade that offers both practical benefits and long-term value for your home.
Small Mudroom Storage Ideas for Tight Spaces
Even the smallest entryways can be transformed into functional and stylish zones with the right approach. If you’re dealing with a narrow hallway, a corner by the door, or a closet-sized space, you don’t have to sacrifice organization. These small mudroom storage ideas help you maximize every inch without compromising on convenience or style.
Go Vertical
Walls are your best friend when floor space is limited. Install a vertical row of hooks for coats, bags, and hats. Add a narrow floating shelf above the hooks for keys, sunglasses, or decorative bins. You can even stack two or three cubbies from the floor up to hold shoes, gloves, and scarves. Think tall, not wide, when planning your layout.
Use a Slim Console or Floating Bench
A slim console table or floating bench can create a landing spot without taking over your walkway. Add a basket underneath to catch shoes or sports gear. If you’re working with a hallway, this kind of mudroom storage can keep items organized while allowing foot traffic to flow. A bench with a shallow depth works well for quick seating while removing shoes.
Add Over-the-Door and Wall-Mounted Organizers
Make use of doors and walls with mounted organizers. Over-the-door racks can hold everything from jackets to umbrellas. Pegboards and pocket organizers are also great for holding small accessories like dog leashes, mail, and winter gear. These keep the mess off the floor and make everything easy to grab as you leave the house.
Create a Built-In Niche
If you’re renovating or updating your home, carve out a shallow niche between wall studs. This can become a recessed cubby area with hooks and shelving. It’s a custom-built solution that blends into the wall and keeps your mudroom storage compact. Use baskets or sliding drawers for a tidy, integrated look.
Label and Contain Everything
In small spaces, visual clutter makes the area feel even tighter. Use matching bins, labels, and containers to bring order to the chaos. When everything has a place, even a tiny mudroom can feel intentional and efficient.
Smart mudroom storage solutions don’t require a lot of square footage. With creative planning and a few well-placed pieces, even the smallest space can serve as a hardworking entryway.
Using Reclaimed Materials in Your Mudroom
If you love the charm of rustic design and sustainable living, using reclaimed materials in your mudroom is a smart and stylish choice. Repurposed wood, salvaged metal, and old hardware not only add character but also help reduce waste. Whether you’re updating an old space or starting from scratch, reclaimed materials can give your mudroom a warm, lived-in feel that’s full of personality.
Reclaimed Wood for Mudroom Cabinets
Old barn wood or salvaged planks from deconstructed homes make excellent material for mudroom cabinets. Their natural imperfections—like knots, nail holes, and weathered textures—bring instant warmth and authenticity to the space. You can sand and seal them for durability while still keeping that worn look. Reclaimed wood cabinets often pair beautifully with metal handles or antique hooks, creating a perfect blend of function and charm.
Old Doors Turned into Locker Units
Vintage doors can be transformed into locker-style storage areas. Use one as the backing for individual stations or cut multiple doors to create a uniform row. Add hooks for coats and bags, and include upper shelves made from matching reclaimed wood. This gives each family member a unique, personalized space while tying the design together with consistent materials.
Mudroom Bench with Storage from Pallets or Beams
A mudroom bench with storage doesn’t have to be brand new to be effective. You can build one using old shipping pallets, floor joists, or reclaimed hardwood beams. These materials are sturdy and full of character. Add a hinged seat for hidden shoe storage or baskets underneath for quick access to daily essentials. Sand the surface just enough to keep it safe to the touch while maintaining the raw look.
Repurpose Old Furniture for Unique Storage
Got an old dresser or shelving unit? Turn it into a practical mudroom addition. Remove the top drawers and replace them with open shelves or baskets. Apply a coat of paint or leave the aged finish intact to enhance the vintage feel. This kind of repurposing gives new life to old furniture while adding charm to your space.
Using reclaimed materials in your mudroom isn’t just an eco-conscious decision. It creates a welcoming space full of character, history, and clever design. Whether it’s mudroom cabinets or a handmade mudroom bench with storage, reclaimed elements offer function with an unbeatable touch of soul.
Conclusion
Mudroom storage is essential for keeping your entryway organized, clean, and efficient. Whether you’re working with a small corner or a full room, smart storage solutions can transform daily routines. From built-in cabinets to repurposed benches, each idea adds both function and style. With the right setup, your mudroom becomes a practical and welcoming part of your home.
