As a professional organizer I often get asked for product recommendations to help with home organization. While I stand by my belief that getting organized isn’t about buying stuff, there are some items I use in my own home that make storage much easier. This will be the first post in a recurring monthly series sharing my favorite tools for organizing every room in your home. If you’re not already subscribed to my mailing list, do so at the link down below so you don’t miss any future installments! Today, I’m tackling the entryway.
1. Hanging closet organizer - Most coat closets in home entryways have a simple hanging bar with a shelf on top. It’s great for hanging coats, but not so great for all the smaller items you need to store there, such as hats, gloves, scarves, dog walking supplies, umbrellas, and sunglasses. I added one of these fabric organizers to my coat closet a couple years ago and it helps me keep all those things tidy with very little effort. I would caution against storing heavy items here, as the shelves are not meant to support a lot of weight.
2. Stackable shoe rack - These shoe racks are one of my absolute favorite organizing tools! I have several that I have used for years and moved from place to place to keep my shoes under control. I keep one in my entryway closet for my most frequently worn shoes, boots, and sneakers, and several more in my bedroom closet for dress shoes. These are sturdy, stackable, easy to assemble, and they come in two lengths and several colors to fit your closet perfectly. These also look nice enough to be out on display if you don’t have a closet in your entryway.
3. Clear bins - Clear bins are pretty much the organizing MVP of any space. I keep a few bins of this size in my entryway closet on the upper shelf above the hanging bar for out-of-season items. In the spring I stash my winter gear like hats and gloves in them, and in the fall I use them to store my warm weather handbags and scarves. Keeping only the current season items in the easily accessible areas is a great way to declutter your coat closet.
4. Mail and key holder - One important way to stay organized is to create systems that make your life easier. Having a spot for keys and outgoing mail is a simple way to reduce stress as you head out the door - anyone who’s hunted for their keys while running late knows this to be true! This key and mail holder mounts on the wall easily with two screws and will bring you a little peace of mind. The hooks are also great for keeping dog leashes at the ready!
5. Bench seating with shoe storage - Having a seat in the entryway to get boots on and off is a must for Central New York winters, but many of us struggle with a small space near the door. This simple, solid wood bench is made to order and can be as short as 2 feet x 13 inches for super small entryways. The storage shelves below provide an additional spot for shoes and you can select from an array of colors and stains to match your decor.
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Make it fab!
Carrie