What You Can Do Today to Make the Entryway Feel Less Chaotic
The entryway is where all the stuff piles up—shoes, bags, keys, mail, and whatever else you drop when walking in. It doesn’t take much for it to feel cluttered and chaotic. But with a few quick changes, you can turn it into a spot that actually helps you get in and out without frustration.
Limit What Lives There on Purpose
If the entryway collects everything, start by removing what doesn’t belong. That might mean shoes you don’t wear often, jackets for the wrong season, or random items that don’t need to be in arm’s reach. Keeping the area clear helps you spot what you do need more easily.
Add a Tray or Basket for Drop-Zone Items
Keys, wallets, and sunglasses need a home or they’ll end up everywhere. A single tray or small basket gives them a landing spot and helps cut visual clutter. Choose one that fits the space, and train yourself to use it—it’s a tiny shift that pays off fast.
Give Everyone Their Own Hook or Bin
Shared spaces get chaotic when everyone’s fighting for the same hook. Assign a hook or bin to each person in the house, even if it’s tucked under a bench. Label it if you need to. That way, backpacks, lunchboxes, and jackets stop overlapping and mixing together.
Keep Only One or Two Pairs of Shoes Per Person
A shoe mountain at the door doesn’t do anyone any favors. Limit each person to a couple pairs at most—maybe one daily and one backup. The rest should live in closets or bedroom storage. It’s easier to sweep, mop, and keep clean when the floor isn’t buried.
Use Vertical Space
If the floor is constantly overwhelmed, start looking up. Wall hooks, narrow shelving, or hanging organizers can store hats, umbrellas, or even mail without adding bulk. Entryways are usually small, and vertical storage makes a big difference in how open they feel.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
