The mudroom is often an overlooked area of the home, but it’s actually a vital space for keeping your house clean and organized. It’s the first room you enter when you come home, and it’s the last one you leave when you head out. So, it should be equipped to handle all your coming-and-goings, regardless of how messy they might be. That’s why I’ve put together a list of 13 things I always keep in my mudroom to ensure it’s functional and ready for whatever life throws my way.
1. A Sturdy Coat Rack
Every mudroom needs a durable coat rack. Why? Because it’s the perfect place to hang jackets, coats, scarves, and hats. This saves you from draping them over chairs or leaving them lying around, which can make your home look cluttered. A wall-mounted coat rack works best as it utilizes vertical space, leaving the floor clear. In addition, a coat rack with additional storage like shelves or cubbies can double as a place to store keys, mail, or other small items. You might even consider a coat rack with built-in seating, so you have a place to sit while you put on your shoes.
2. Weatherproof Mats
A weatherproof mat is essential for a mudroom. It’s the first line of defense against dirt, mud, and water being tracked into your home. Look for a mat made from durable, easy-to-clean material like rubber or coir. Place the mat at the entryway to catch any dirt or debris from shoes. For even better results, consider a two-mat system: one outside the door for scraping off heavy dirt, and another inside to catch any remaining particles.
3. Shoe Storage
Shoe storage is a must-have in every mudroom. It keeps your footwear organized and prevents dirt and debris from being tracked further into the house. It can be as simple as a shoe rack or as elaborate as built-in cubbies. Remember to choose a storage solution that fits your family’s needs. If you have small children, for example, lower shelves or baskets might be more accessible. For larger families, a larger rack or even multiple racks might be necessary.
4. Hooks for Bags and Backpacks
Just like a coat rack, hooks for bags and backpacks are an essential mudroom item. They provide a designated spot for these items, preventing them from being left on the floor or other random places. Choose sturdy hooks that can handle the weight of heavy bags. Install them at a height that’s accessible for everyone in the family. If you have young children, consider adding a lower row of hooks just for them.
5. Bench
A bench is a great addition to any mudroom. It provides a place to sit while putting on or taking off shoes, and it can also provide additional storage. Consider a bench with built-in storage under the seat. It can be used to store shoes, hats, gloves, and other small items. It’s a great way to utilize space, especially in smaller mudrooms.
6. Umbrella Stand
An umbrella stand is a necessity in a mudroom, especially if you live in a rainy climate. It’s a designated space for wet umbrellas to dry without making a mess. Choose a stand that can accommodate all sizes of umbrellas. An open design will allow umbrellas to dry faster, and a drip tray at the bottom will prevent water from spilling onto the floor.
7. Cleaning Supplies
Cleaning supplies are a must-have in the mudroom. They make it easy to clean up any messes as soon as they happen. Keep a small broom and dustpan, a mop, and some multi-purpose cleaner in the mudroom. This way, you can quickly clean up dirt or spills without having to go to another part of the house.
8. Mirror
A mirror in the mudroom is not only functional, but it can also make the space look larger. It’s useful for a quick check before you leave the house. Choose a mirror that complements the style of your mudroom. It can be a full-length mirror for a final outfit check, or a smaller one just to check your face and hair.
9. Pet Supplies
If you have pets, keeping their supplies in the mudroom is a great idea. This includes leashes, collars, and doggie bags. Having these items in the mudroom means you can easily grab them on your way out for a walk. It also keeps them in one designated spot, so you always know where they are.
10. Outdoor Gear
The mudroom is the perfect place to store outdoor gear like sports equipment, gardening tools, or picnic blankets. Having these items in the mudroom means they’re easily accessible when you need them. It also keeps them out of the way and prevents them from cluttering up the rest of your house.
11. Spare Keys
Keeping spare keys in the mudroom is a practical idea. It can save you from being locked out of your house or car. Make sure to keep them in a secure spot, like a locked box or a high shelf. This way, they’re accessible when needed but out of reach of little hands.
12. Trash and Recycling Bins
A small trash bin and a recycling bin are useful to have in the mudroom. They make it easy to quickly dispose of trash or recyclables without having to go to another part of the house. Choose bins that fit the space and complement the decor of your mudroom. It’s also a good idea to choose bins with lids to keep smells contained.
13. A Whiteboard or Bulletin Board
A whiteboard or bulletin board in the mudroom can be used for reminders, shopping lists, or family messages. This can be incredibly helpful for keeping track of everyone’s schedules. It’s also a great place to leave reminders for yourself or others before you leave the house.