Entryway stations are a great way to catch and contain a great amount of potential clutter as the family walks through the door each day.  A good family entryway station should have a few simple, but important features.

  • Hooks: At least 2 (separate) sturdy hooks for each family member. Each member will need a place to hang their coats, scarves and a backpack or purse.  Be sure to place the hooks at the appropriate height for each child or adult to easily reach.
  • Cubbies and/or Baskets: Each person should have a cubby or basket available for hats and scarves or other miscellaneous items that may be needed on the way out the door. Use lower cubbies for smaller children and higher cubbies for older kids and adults.
  • Shoe Storage: Shoes seem to multiple like bunnies near the entryway in the fall and winter. Shoe storage can be as simple at a mat under a bench, a shoe rack or a shoe cabinet.  The main thing to bear in mind is that the system is only as good as the maintenance, so feel free to choose the number of shoes that each family member can keep at the entryway.  Maybe 4 pairs per family member will work for your household; whatever the magic number it’s important to stay with that number and put away any extra shoes that gather on a weekly basis.
  • Drawers: Another great feature for an entryway are drawers. Preferably 1 per family member if possible; this allows each family member a place to put keys, wallets and loose change.  You can easily add dividers or small containers so that small items stay organized within the drawers.
  • Bench or Seat: It’s just nice to have a place to sit and put on or remove your shoes as you come and go each day.

The key to an effective solution is to avoid having too much stuff in the space. This means you may have to pare it down to just the items you actually use on a regular basis. You cannot organize yourself out of too much stuff in a space. Try practicing the 80/20 rule to determine the 20% of clothing that you are actually wearing and keep only those in your entryway solution. Remember, if you are struggling, help is only a phone call away and we would be happy to assist with any of your organizing projects.

Darla Pompilio

Your Tasks – Our Time, LLC