You love your kids. What you don’t love is the mess they track inside after a day of play. One easy way to cut down on post-play cleanup is to create a mudroom-style entry for your home. You can do this without a designated room, as long as you have a bit of space to spare near your front door! We have some tips that can show you how to set up a mudroom-style entry for your messy kids.
Designate a Drop Zone
The first step is to pick a spot. It could be a small section of your entryway, a corner of the garage, or even a wall in the laundry room. This area will be the official “drop zone” where all outdoor gear lives. Make it clear to your kids that this is where shoes, jackets, and backpacks belong the moment they step inside.
Install Hooks for Coats and Bags
Wall-mounted hooks are practical for a mudroom-style entry. They don’t take up any floor space and give your kids a clear place to hang their jackets, hats, and backpacks. Install them at a height your children can easily reach so they can put away their own things without help.
Use Cubbies
Below the hooks, place a set of cubbies or open bins. Assign one to each child for their shoes, sports equipment, or other outdoor items. This system gives everything a home and makes it easy for kids to put their things away themselves.
Use an Outdoor Rug
An outdoor rug placed just inside the door can catch a lot of dirt, mud, and water. Unlike indoor rugs, outdoor rugs are easy to keep clean because they’re designed to withstand the elements. A quick shake outside or a rinse with a hose is all it takes to keep it looking fresh.
Add a Bench for Seating
A bench offers a convenient spot for everyone to sit down and remove their shoes. Do you have a small space? A narrow bench without a back fits nicely against a wall. For extra utility, select a bench with built-in storage underneath, where you can stow away shoes and keep the area clutter-free.
Create a Cleaning Station
A small cleaning station can stop messes before they spread. Keep a basket with a few old towels nearby to wipe down muddy hands or wet shoes. A small boot scraper or brush by the door also helps remove excess dirt from shoes before they even come inside.
Your New and Tidy Entryway
By creating a mudroom-style entry, you can keep most of your kid’s mess at the door. Use these tips to create a practical area where they can take off their shoes, jackets, and backpacks before running wild through the house.
Sam Hopes is a 37-year-old mom of two living in Portland, Oregon. She works as a freelance graphic designer and part-time yoga instructor, juggling creative projects with playdates and PTA emails. Known for her warm personality and dry humor, Sam loves hiking in Forest Park, thrifting on Mississippi Avenue, and weekend visits to OMSI with her kids, Ella and Milo. She’s the kind of parent who forgets sunscreen but always remembers snacks—and a good laugh.