Mudroom Makeover

photo via Crate & Barrel

Once upon a time after looking at a layout like this (see above), I decided to embark upon a mini makeover in my own mudroom. I realized that coming home to a tidy space would be far less overwhelming than walking into what appeared to be a mini-landfill. Although some days this room slowly reverts back to its landfill-roots, we (I) try to keep it relatively junk-free.

I use this basket to schlep shoes and other things upstairs. One
of the kids' little jobs is to return the shoes to their rightful closets.
I find that we need to do this about 2x per week. I also found since
having 3 kids, I need a clock in the mudroom so I can see exactly
what time I {need} to leave and what time I'm arriving home. Things
are a little more hectic around here these days needless to say!

I use these galvanized steel bins from IKEA to store gloves, hats, umbrellas, etc.
One bin is for the kiddos and one is for the {sometimes} grownups :) There is room
for everyone to store one or maybe two pairs of shoes downstairs; same with
the coats--one or two coats per person. Other, lesser-used coats are stored in the
official "coat closet". I love the stainless steel board (from here) because
it is functional and provides a nice clean look. On the board I clip fun pictures, pretty
cards, important papers for my kids and inspiring quotes. The latest addition was the
grass-covered letter press card from Marilyn I received in the Spring Swap.