The holiday party’s over, the guests are gone… but did the mess get the memo? If your entryway or mudroom has become a dumping ground for coats, shoes, and “I’ll deal with this later,” and needs some serious organizing, you’re not alone.
This space is the first thing your family and visitors see. It should feel welcoming, not like post-party chaos. Follow these simple steps to get the party back under control and make your entryway inviting for everyone.
1. Check the Guest List
So, who’s actually supposed to be at this party, anyway? Before organizing, take inventory of what’s in your space:
Keys (house, car, spares)
Bags (work totes, backpacks, purses)
Coats & jackets
Dog or cat walking supplies (leashes, harnesses, treats, poop bags)
Umbrellas
Mail (incoming, outgoing, “I’ll deal with this later”)
Shoes (everyday pairs)
Boots (seasonal or weather-specific)
At the same time, notice patterns. Are shoes piling up by the door? Are bags always ending up on the floor. These habits are clues that tell you what kind of systems will actually work for your household.
2. Assign Seats and Roles
If an item keeps showing up to the party, it deserves a proper invitation, and a place to belong. Once you know who’s attending, give each item a clear job. Choose simple tools that support your daily routines.
Think in terms of function:
Hooks or wall pegs for coats, bags, and dog leashes
Hangers or a small coat rack if closet space is limited
Shoe racks, trays, or cubbies to keep footwear contained
A small bowl or tray for keys so they’re always easy to grab
Try to match the solution to the habit. if it’s annoying to put away, it won’t happen. When everything knows where it goes, the party stays fun, not chaotic.
3. Remove the Party Crashers
Entryways attract clutter that was never invited. Even the best systems can’t compete with:
Fast food wrappers & disposable cups
Loose mail and crumpled receipts
“Why is this even here?” items like empty bags, broken umbrellas, or worn-out shoes
These small things create big visual chaos. Removing the riffraff takes very little time and makes an instant impact.
Do a quick sweep every few days to remove these unwanted guests.
Hot Tip
Keep winter and summer gear in separate bins: each season gets its own VIP spot. When it’s time to swap, it’s quick and easy, and your entryway stays looking like a well-hosted party instead of post-celebration chaos.
With the guest list checked, seats assigned, and party crashers out, your entryway is finally calm and welcoming. A quick daily or weekly sweep keeps clutter from sneaking back in. Think of it as tidying up before the next guests arrive.
A few simple steps now = a stress-free, inviting space every time you walk in.
