Tripping over shoes, losing keys, and never being able to find that missing scarf as you rush out the door? Entryway chaos doesn’t have to be your home’s reality — all you need are some entryway storage ideas to make things a little more streamlined.
We’re here to help you transform your entryway into a functional and organized space that sets the tone for a stress-free day ahead!
Determine Your Entryway Needs
Assessing Size and Space
Before you dive into buying bins and baskets, take a moment to assess your space.
Grab a measuring tape and get those dimensions down. Knowing how much space you're working with is key to finding storage solutions that fit just right. Think of it like Goldilocks trying out chairs – you don't want something too big or too small, but just right.
Consider both your floor space – the area where you walk – and your wall space, which can be a goldmine for clever storage hacks.
Think also about how you use your entryway. Is it a narrow hallway or a spacious foyer? A tiny nook might call for wall-mounted shelves, while a larger area could handle a bench with built-in storage. And remember, it's not just about you. Think about everyone who uses the entryway. Do your kids need hooks for their backpacks? Does your furry friend need a spot for leashes and toys?
Functional Storage Ideas
1. Entryway Benches with Built-In Storage
An entryway bench with storage might be your perfect first find. Not only do these benches provide a comfy spot to sit while you lace up your shoes, but they also offer hidden storage compartments for all your entryway essentials.
Entryway benches come in a few different styles, from sleek and modern to rustic and charming. You can choose an entryway storage bench with drawers for tucking away hats and gloves, cubbies for organizing shoes, or a lift-up lid that reveals a spacious storage compartment.
We know many homeowners love these because they’re great storage options, disguised as a stylish piece of furniture.
Picking the right storage bench entryway depends on your needs and the size of your entryway. If space is tight, a slim bench with drawers might be ideal. For a larger area, like a garage, consider entryway bench storage with cubbies or a trunk-style option. And don't forget about style! Choose a bench that complements your home's decor, so it feels like a natural extension of your living space.
2. Console Tables with Drawers or Shelves
Console tables are both a stylish addition to your decor and a functional workhorse that can help keep your entryway tidy and organized. Imagine a sleek, elegant table gracing your hallway, offering a convenient spot to drop your keys, mail, or even a stylish vase of flowers.
Many console tables come with drawers or shelves, providing discreet storage for items you want to keep out of sight. Tuck away gloves, scarves, or even extra face masks in the drawers. Use the shelves to display decorative items, store books or magazines, or even house a small basket for your keys and wallet.
You can also choose from a variety of styles, materials, and finishes to match your personal taste and complement your existing decor. Some console tables feature open shelves for showcasing decorative items, while others have closed cabinets for concealing clutter. There are even designs that combine open and closed storage, giving you the best of both worlds.
3. Hooks, Pegs, and Racks
Hooks, pegs, and racks are the backbone of any organized entryway. They provide designated spots for hanging coats, hats, scarves, bags, and other essentials, keeping them off the floor and out of the way.
A variety of hooks, pegs, or racks can add visual interest to your entryway while also serving a practical purpose. Choose hooks in different sizes and shapes to create a playful and dynamic display. Use pegs for hanging hats or keys, and install a sturdy rack for heavier items like coats or backpacks.
Pro tip: Install hooks and racks at different heights to accommodate everyone in the family. Lower hooks are perfect for kids to reach their coats, while higher hooks can be used for adult outerwear.
4. Floating Shelves or Cubbies
Floating shelves and cubbies are like the wall art of the organization world. They offer a stylish way to store and display items while maximizing vertical space. You can use them to showcase books, plants, framed photos, or other decorative objects. Get creative and arrange your items in an aesthetically pleasing way to create a visually appealing focal point in your entryway.
Floating shelves come in various sizes and materials, so you can choose ones that complement your entryway's style. Install them at different heights to create a dynamic look and make the most of your wall space. Cubbies, on the other hand, offer individual compartments for storing smaller items like keys, sunglasses, or even mail. You can use baskets or bins within the cubbies to corral clutter and add a touch of personality.
Whatever it may be, this is a great option to give visitors a little peek into the personality of your home and family upon entering.
5. Baskets and Bins for Easy Sorting
Imagine tossing your gloves, scarves, and hats into a stylish basket as soon as you walk in the door, instead of letting them pile up on the nearest surface. Or, how about keeping your dog's leash and toys tucked away in a cute bin, ready for your next adventure?
These handy little storage solutions come in all shapes and sizes, making them perfect for wrangling various items. You can use a large basket for entryway shoe storage, a medium-sized bin for umbrellas, and smaller baskets for accessories like sunglasses or keys.
To keep things extra organized, consider adding labels to your baskets and bins. This way, you'll always know exactly where everything is (avoiding those frantic searches for your car keys when you're already running late).
6. Clear Bins for Seasonal Items
Your entryway storage needs to change with the seasons. In winter, you might have a collection of hats, gloves, and scarves, while in summer, you're more likely to have sunscreen, sunglasses, and beach towels. Clear bins are a perfect solution for storing these seasonal items. Unlike opaque containers, clear bins allow you to see exactly what's inside without having to rummage through them.
Label your clear bins with the season or category of items they contain and store them on high shelves or in a walk-in closet when not in use. This will keep your entryway clutter-free and make it easier to switch out your storage as the seasons change.
7. Dividers for Sorting Keys and Mail
These simple yet effective tools can be used to create designated spots for all your small essentials. You can use dividers in drawers, baskets, or even on shelves.
They help keep items separated and prevent them from becoming a jumbled mess. For example, you could use dividers to create a separate section for each family member's keys or to organize incoming and outgoing mail. It's like having a traffic cop directing the flow of items in your entryway. With dividers, you'll always know where everything is, saving you precious time and frustration.
8. Trays for Corralling Small Items
Everyday essentials like keys, loose change, and maybe a favorite piece of jewelry you always take off as soon as you get home. These tiny treasures have a knack for disappearing into the abyss of your entryway, don't they?
A simple tray can be the key to taming this small-item chaos. You can choose a tray made from any material you like - wood, metal, ceramic, or even leather. Just make sure it's big enough to hold all your essentials without feeling cramped.
Place your tray on a console table, a shelf, or even on top of your shoe cubby to create a designated drop zone for your small items. You can even have multiple trays for different purposes. One for keys, one for mail, and one for the random bits and bobs that always seem to accumulate.
9. Plants and Greenery
Entryways can sometimes feel a bit dull and lifeless. We tend to forget about them, thinking of them more as a transition space rather than its own room. But adding a touch of greenery can instantly transform your space into a welcoming oasis.
Plants not only bring beauty but also improve air quality and create a sense of calm. When choosing plants for your entryway, consider the amount of light the space receives. If you have limited natural light, opt for low-maintenance plants that don't require a lot of sun. Some great options include snake plants, ZZ plants, or pothos. For brighter entryways, you can experiment with ferns, succulents, or even a small flowering plant.
10. Gallery Wall
Your entryway is the first impression guests have of your home, so why not make it a reflection of your personality and style? It can be a curated collection of your favorite things - artwork, photographs, postcards, or even your kids' drawings.
Don't be afraid to mix and match different sizes, shapes, and frames to create a visually interesting display. You can even incorporate other decorative elements like mirrors, clocks, or wall hangings. The key is to create a cohesive look that reflects your personal taste and style.
Explore ClosetWorld's Home Organization Tips!
If you're looking to transform your space, our custom closet organizers are here to help. We specialize in custom closet design, offering solutions that include everything from pantry organization to home office setups.
Schedule your free in-home consultation to assess your needs and provide tailored solutions that fit your style and budget. Whether you need to organize your entryway, pantry, or home office, our experienced designers will work with you to maximize your space and bring your vision to life!
