The entryway is the first thing you see when you come home. It’s also the first thing guests notice. But let’s be honest — it’s easy for this space to become messy. Shoes, coats, bags, keys, and letters often pile up here.
A cluttered entryway can make your whole home feel untidy. The good news is, with a few smart habits and the right storage, you can keep it neat all year round.
1. Start with a Clear-Out
Before you think about storage, clear out what you don’t need.
- Old shoes you never wear? Donate or throw them away.
- Coats that don’t fit or are damaged? Get rid of them.
- Broken umbrellas or useless junk? Toss them out.
Once you remove the clutter, it’s much easier to organize.
2. Keep Only the Essentials
The entryway is not for storing everything you own. Keep only the things you use daily or weekly.
- Shoes for the current season.
- Coats or jackets you wear often.
- Bags you use for work or school.
Everything else should go in a closet or storage room.
3. Create a Place for Shoes
Shoes can quickly make a space look messy. Give them a home.
- Use a small rack or shelves.
- Store less-used shoes in boxes.
- Keep muddy shoes outside or in the garage.
If you want something practical and stylish, a shoe storage bench is perfect. You can sit on it while putting on shoes, and it keeps them hidden and tidy.
4. Hang Coats and Bags Properly
A pile of coats on a chair is not a good look. Use hooks or a coat rack.
- Place hooks at different heights for kids and adults.
- Use a strong rack for heavy winter coats.
- Keep one hook free for guests’ coats.
Bags can hang on hooks too, so they don’t end up on the floor.
5. Have a Spot for Keys and Mail
Small things like keys and letters easily get lost. Give them their own place.
- Use a small bowl or tray for keys.
- Have a letter holder for mail.
- Check your mail holder weekly and throw away junk.
This keeps your surfaces clear and your mind stress-free.
6. Use Vertical Space
If your entryway is small, think upwards.
- Install shelves above hooks for baskets or boxes.
- Use wall-mounted organizers for sunglasses, gloves, or hats.
- Hang a small cabinet for extra storage.
Vertical storage frees up floor space and makes the area feel bigger.
7. Keep Seasonal Items Separate
You don’t need summer hats in the middle of winter. Keep seasonal items stored away when not in use.
- Store winter boots in the attic during summer.
- Keep sun hats and flip-flops in a box during winter.
Rotating your items keeps the entryway neat and ready for the current season.
8. Limit Decorative Items
It’s nice to have a pretty vase or photo in your entryway. But too many decorations can make it feel crowded.
- Choose one or two statement pieces.
- Keep surfaces mostly clear.
- Add plants for a fresh touch without taking up too much room.
9. Use Baskets and Boxes
Baskets are great for quick storage.
- A basket for scarves and gloves.
- A box for sports equipment.
- A basket for kids’ hats or school things.
Label them so everyone knows where things go.
10. Make a Daily Tidy-Up Routine
Clutter happens when we don’t put things back. Spend 5 minutes each day tidying the entryway.
- Put shoes back on the rack.
- Hang coats on hooks.
- Empty pockets and put keys in their spot.
Small daily habits stop the mess from building up.
11. Teach the Family
One person can’t keep the entryway clean alone. Everyone needs to help.
- Show kids where their shoes go.
- Remind family to hang coats right away.
- Keep storage easy to reach so it’s simple for everyone to use.
12. Keep It Fresh
A clutter-free entryway should also feel welcoming.
- Wipe surfaces often.
- Sweep or vacuum the floor regularly.
- Use a doormat to stop dirt from coming inside.
Fresh smells and clean floors make the space pleasant every time you walk in.
Quick Tips Recap
- Clear out what you don’t need.
- Keep only essentials in the entryway.
- Give shoes a proper home.
- Hang coats and bags neatly.
- Have a spot for keys and mail.
- Use vertical space wisely.
- Store seasonal items elsewhere.
- Limit decorations.
- Use baskets and boxes.
- Tidy up daily.
- Get the whole family involved.
- Keep the space clean and fresh.
Final Thoughts
Your entryway is like the handshake of your home — it sets the tone for what’s inside. By keeping it simple, organized, and clutter-free, you’ll feel more relaxed every time you walk through the door. Start with a clear-out, create smart storage, and make tidying a daily habit. Soon, your entryway will look welcoming and stay that way all year round.
