Published: June 15, 2025

8 Tips to Organize Your Mudroom Efficiently

A well-organized mudroom can make a big difference in your daily routine. It’s the first place you enter after a long day and the last place you see before heading out. Whether you’re dealing with muddy boots, scattered backpacks, or a pile of jackets, a tidy and functional mudroom helps keep your home clean and clutter-free. Here are eight practical tips to help you organize your mudroom efficiently—and keep it that way.

Use Cubbies and Lockers for Everyone

One of the best ways to keep your mudroom organized is to give each family member their own space. Cubbies, lockers, or open shelves with baskets work great for this. Label each section with names so everyone knows where their belongings belong. This system encourages accountability and makes it easy to grab what you need on the way out.

Install Wall Hooks at Multiple Heights

Wall hooks are essential in a mudroom, especially when placed at both adult and kid-friendly heights. They’re perfect for hanging coats, hats, backpacks, and even pet leashes. A row of sturdy hooks keeps everything visible and off the floor, which means no more stepping over jackets or scrambling to find your child’s school bag.

Add a Bench With Built-In Storage

A bench is a must-have for any efficient mudroom setup. It gives you a place to sit while removing shoes and doubles as valuable storage space. Look for benches with hidden compartments or open cubbies underneath to store footwear, bags, or seasonal gear. It’s a smart way to maximize function without adding clutter.

Use Baskets and Bins to Group Items

Baskets and bins are lifesavers when it comes to corralling loose items like gloves, scarves, sports equipment, or pet supplies. Choose a uniform look to keep the space visually tidy, and opt for labeled bins so everyone knows where things go. Using baskets also makes it easier to rotate seasonal items in and out without a full reorganization.

Maximize Vertical Space With Shelving

If floor space is limited, go up! Install shelves above hooks or benches to make use of vertical real estate. These shelves are great for storing items you don’t use daily, like extra paper towels, reusable shopping bags, or out-of-season accessories. Just be sure to use bins or boxes to keep it looking neat and avoid visual clutter.

Designate a Shoe Zone

Shoes tend to take over a mudroom quickly if there’s no system in place. Set up a dedicated shoe zone using trays, racks, or cubbies to keep pairs together and dirt contained. If space allows, consider a two-tier shoe rack for maximum capacity. Encourage everyone to take off their shoes upon entering to help keep the rest of the house clean.

Keep a Command Center Nearby

If your mudroom is the main entry point, it’s the perfect spot for a family command center. A small section with a bulletin board, wall calendar, mail sorter, and a whiteboard for reminders can help keep everyone on track. Add a charging station for phones or tablets and a drop zone for keys and wallets to streamline your daily exit.

Make It Easy to Maintain

The key to a functional mudroom isn’t just getting it organized—it’s keeping it that way. Choose easy-to-clean materials like tile or washable rugs to handle dirt and moisture. Do a quick weekly sweep to return stray items to their spots. Involve the whole family by assigning simple tasks like wiping down benches or sorting shoes.

Your mudroom doesn’t have to be a chaotic drop zone. With a few smart systems in place, it can become one of the most organized and efficient areas in your home. By using vertical storage, assigning spaces to family members, and staying on top of maintenance, you’ll create a mudroom that works hard and looks great all year round.

Need extra space while organizing your mudroom? Visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Southwest Florida or call (941) 759-5937 for convenient, on-site storage solutions.