The entryway is where everything seems to land when you get home, from shoes and bags to mail and random items you plan to put away later. Before long, the first spot you see when you walk through the door can become one of the messiest areas in the house.
You don’t need a large foyer or an expensive makeover to make the space feel tidy again. Start by removing a few things that take up space, attract clutter, or make leaving the house harder.
Unopened Mail and Miscellaneous Clutter
Mail, receipts, school papers, and random odds and ends can quickly cover an entryway table or bench. Set aside a spot for important papers and put everything else where it belongs instead of letting another pile form by the door.
Related: 13 Things You Might Regret Getting Rid of During a Decluttering Cleanout
Oversized Storage Furniture
A bulky hall tree or large cabinet may offer plenty of storage, but it can make a small entryway feel cramped and leave little room to move around. Choose furniture that fits the space, such as a slim console, a wall-mounted shelf, or a bench with storage underneath.
Related: 14 Quirky Thrift Store Finds That Add Just the Right Amount of Whimsy
Piles of Shoes
Leaving shoes by the front door is convenient, but a growing pile of sneakers, sandals, and boots can quickly take over the floor. Keep your most-used pairs in a small shoe rack or basket and move the rest to a closet.
Related: 12 Small Home Upgrades People Wish They Had Made Before Running Out of Space
Coats and Bags You Rarely Use
Hooks are useful for keeping everyday jackets and bags within reach, but they stop being helpful when they’re buried under things you rarely use. Store out-of-season coats, extra tote bags, and unused backpacks elsewhere so there’s room for the items you grab each day.
Related: 15 Thrift Store Treasures That Could Make You a Small Fortune!
Décor That No Longer Fits Your Style
Your entryway should feel like a place you’re happy to come home to, rather than a collection of decorations you’ve kept out of habit. If an old sign or crowded display no longer suits your taste, replace it with a favorite picture, a mirror, or one decorative item that means something to you.
