The entryway is a hub of family activity.
The first step in organizing a home is to look at where you enter and exit every day -- the entryway. Think of the entryway as organization central. Whether it's in the front, back or side of the home, the entryway sets the stage for the entire family's daily comings and goings. While an organized entryway is priceless, it won't cost a fortune to create a space that is both functional and stylish. Roll up your sleeves and learn declutter and organize an entryway in a few hours time. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Remove everything from the entryway -- either into another room or hallway. Clean the entryway, if necessary. Vacuum the floors, touch up the walls with paint and wipe down the dust from the baseboards. Go through everything that was in the entryway. Any clothing or shoes that no longer fit, put in a giveaway pile. Items that don't pertain to the entryway should be put away in another area of the home. Discard old papers and mail. Keep in mind that entryway items should be limited to seasonal coats or jackets, everyday shoes, purses/bags/backpacks, sunglasses and keys -- anything you typically grab in the morning rush.
2. Install some hooks for hanging coats, hats and backpacks. Buy a pre-made strip of hooks from a hardware store or look for a hook/shelf combination. Ensure that there are at least two hooks for each member of the family, one for coats and another for backpacks or bags. Place baskets on the shelf, if there is a shelf, to hold each person's school or personal papers/items.
3. Place a bench underneath the hook area. Consider using a bench that has cubbies underneath for keeping shoes neatly organized. Be sure that there is enough bench/cubby space for each member of the family. Place shoes in the entryway that pertain to the current season. Store all other shoes in the garage to cut down on entryway clutter.
4. Find a dresser -- from around the house or at a garage sale/thrift store -- to place in the entryway. Use the bottom drawers to hold out-of-season items, such as beach towels. Put the family's calendar in the top drawer of the dresser so that each day everyone knows what is going on and where they need to be. Place a basket or tray on top of the dresser to catch keys. Consider using two plastic or wire stackable paper organizers from an office supply store to keep mail organized by unread mail and bills to be paid, for example. Hang a mirror above the dresser to add some decorative flair to the entryway.
Tags: Consider using, each member, each member family, member family, that entryway
