Mudrooms are not known for their fancy décor and organized structure, but who says this functional space has to look messy? Follow these five tips to create a space you don’t have to hide while at the same time improving functionality. Guess what? You don’t even need a dedicated mudroom to use these tips! Designate a foyer corner or portion of the back hallway and make your own unique storage area.
Tip 1: Start from the floor up when planning your mudroom space. If you’ve got a new construction home or are revamping an existing mudroom, designing built-in benches and cubbies make storage and seating much easier. You can use this low space for shoe storage or kid items. Working your way up higher, plan for countertops and shelves to hold larger items and consider installing a sink near the washer and dryer.
Tip 2: Don’t underestimate the value of wall hooks. Fill up what would otherwise be wasted space with hooks for everything from purses and backpacks to coats and umbrellas. Use hooks over the back of the mudroom door for an ironing board or clothes drying rack. You can even hang mops and brooms.
Tip 3: Decorative bins and baskets can brighten up the room and add a touch of decorative interest while providing hidden storage for things like laundry soap, cleaning supplies, spare light bulbs and batteries. Tall baskets with lids are perfect for housing dirty laundry.
Tip 4: Add furniture like an open-bottom console table (perfect for placing storage bins under) or even a small dresser if you don’t have built-ins. Organize things like winter gloves and hats in the drawers for easy access when the seasons change. Keep your car keys in a drawer so you’ll never lose them again.
Tip 5: Don’t be afraid to decorate! Some simplistic photos on the walls, a nice valance over the window, or even a small houseplant can make all the difference. Just because it’s the mudroom doesn’t mean it has to be drab.