Prevent clutter in the hub of your home with these mudroom storage tips.

First, designate a spot for each family member to store coats and supplies.

This makes it easy for kids of every age to know where things go when they finish school activities.

mudroom with storage cubbies and drawers

Credit: Kim Cornelison

Next, plan space for charging electronics andstoring sporting equipment, especially if used daily.

And don’t forgetplenty of labelsand convenient storage features to help everyone stay tidy.

Incorporate task lighting, a surface for writing, and comfortable seating.

Desk in a mudroom

Credit:Laura Moss

you’re able to even make your own by painting a board with chalkboard paint.

Place hand sanitizer near the door if you don’t have a sink in your mudroom.

Stock the area withdisinfecting wipesso kids can easily clean backpacks, books, or electronics.

Mudroom with vaulted ceilings and skylights

Credit:Jason Donnelly

Add Extra Hooks

Consider adding a hook or two for each member of the family.

“The more hooks, the merrier!”

says Rebecca Zoet, designer and owner ofThis New Old House.

Mudroom with cabinets, a desk, and a chalkboard

Credit:Laura Moss

Additional storage for backpacks and jackets prevents kids from overloading a single spot.

Dedicate counter space or a shelf to charging tablets and laptops used at school or for online learning.

Use cable clips to keep cords tidy.

mudroom with storage cubbies and drawers

Credit: Kim Cornelison

This way, kids always know where to look for their cleats if they’re running late.

Label Baskets and Bins

Mudroom organization is most efficient when there’s a place for everything.

“Contain the clutter with cuteness!”

large mudroom with geometric floor

Credit: Nathan Schroder

“Every member of your familyshould have two baskets, if possible.

For preschoolers, make labels with school pictures or a silly selfie next to each family member’s name.

Designate a folder for each kid to save special projects.

custom built in cabinet in mudroom

Credit: KIM CORNELISON

Have another folder for notices parents need to read, sign, and return to the school.

Be sure to include a recycling bin so unwanted items can be tossed immediately.

Add a Calendar and Daily Reminders

“Mudrooms are yourfamily’s command center,” Zoet says.

Juliano mudroom shelves and hooks

Credit: David A Land

Post a calendar in the mudroom where everyone can see it before they leave.

Add a dry-erase board with inspirational quotes or special reminders for the current week.

Review the calendar each Sunday and update as needed.

close-up Juliano mudroom storage bin

Credit: David A Land

This is also a good time to confirm that online calendars match the posted schedule and note any changes.

shelves hooks command center

Credit: Ann Vander Wilde/The Wilde Project

calendar