Going for a brisk walk on a winter morning is a fantastic way to start your day, but spending time outdoors during the cold season often results in a messy entryway.
These organization tips will help you keep your entryway clean and free of clutter during the winter months.
Add Seating and Storage with a Bench
A bench with built-in storage is an elegant way to put away items that would otherwise make your entryway feel cluttered. You can use it to store your hardwood floor cleaning supplies, your bulky outerwear, or your favorite shopping totes.
It’s also a comfortable spot where you can sit and take your winter boots off before tracking mud or melted snow any further.
Plus, an entryway bench can add a stylish touch to this space. Play with natural texture by choosing a wooden bench and decorate it with some burgundy or blood orange cushions to evoke warmth and comfort.
Keep Shoes Organized with a Shoe Rack
Experts believe that the average American purchases 5.7 pairs of shoes each year. Between professional footwear, sneakers, fashion shoes, and winter boots, the typical family’s shoe collection requires a dedicated storage space.
Make your entryway more functional and less cluttered with a shoe rack and add a rubber mat underneath to catch any dripping melted snow. Besides keeping your shoes handy, a shoe rack can make footwear last longer and protect your flooring from humidity. Just make sure to put away shoes you don’t wear often once they’ve had a chance to dry, to avoid clutter.
Prioritize Vertical Storage
Instead of taking up space with a chest or commode, prioritize vertical storage in your entryway. A vertical shelving unit can be a convenient way to organize your hats, scarves, gloves, or bags and you can dedicate a shelf to mail and keys.
Plus, vertical shelving can result in a stylish framing effect that can turn your bench into a focal point.
Keep Outerwear Handy with Hooks and Racks
The DMV area typically gets five inches of snow in January and February, but weather patterns can be unpredictable in November, December, or March.
Additional hooks or a coat rack allows you to store your warm winter coats and keep a few lighter jackets close at hand in case the skies clear up. Consider a hall tree, which combines a bench with storage and convenient hanging options.
Protect Your Floor with a Mat or Rug
Integrate your entryway into the flow of your home by adding a mat or rug in a shade that complements your home décor. For instance, a rug with a warm hue can create a seamless feel if you have wood or leather furniture in your living room.
Mats and rugs also serve a practical purpose since they will protect your hardwood floors from mud, ice, and snow. Opt for a mat or rug with a durable rubber backing that will be easy to clean.
Make sure to have entryway rugs on both sides of your exterior doors. A more structured mat that can scrape off large bits of mud, snow, and leaves, is great outside. Indoors, a low mat with a durable pile can help wipe remnants off and keep water from tracking in.
Discover our Craftmark Homes Floor Plans
Thanks to their flexible rec rooms, mud rooms, and cozy entryways, Craftmark homes have plenty of room to organize your outerwear, shoes, and other essentials for a clutter-free space.
Explore our communities to find your dream home this winter and contact us today to learn more!