If you have a mudroom, you likely have put it to the test lately. January through March is our rainy season in Georgia, with March being the wettest month, according to www.weather.gov. If you don’t have a mudroom, here are five tips to better utilize your entry points:
- Use practical doormats.
Shoes are the main reason outside elements don’t stay outside. To lessen what you track inside, use a high-quality exterior doormat. Decorative doormats are cozy, welcoming accessories, but they mostly are for show. Consider placing an initial decorative doormat followed by a durable runner rug through your entryway or mudroom. This way, your shoes won’t touch as much of the floor.
Any mats you place down should be rinsed and washed at least once a week. If you notice leaves and debris becoming an issue, mount a broom to the wall, and sweep any materials back outside for removal. Just make sure leaves and dirt aren’t left on the porch or steps where they can be tracked back inside. - Create a shoe tray.
Muddy, wet boots can wreak havoc on hardwood flooring or carpet. Instead of storing boots outside in the cold, keep them warm and dry by creating a tray for them inside. You will need a rubber or plastic boot tray, smooth stones and a poly cement adhesive to glue the stones to the base of the tray. As a bonus, the tray can add a natural decorative touch to your space. - Stay organized.
Place a bench against the wall in your entryway or mudroom, where you can take off shoes and unpack bags after a long day of activities. Choose one with a lift top and cubbies to maximize storage space.
When you’re in a rush, the tendency is to leave items strewn about. Take time to devise an organization plan that suits your household’s needs, so you’ll be able to find things faster and keep everything looking presentable for guests. - Choose the right flooring.
A medium to dark tile with a nonslip texture and stain-resistant grout is a good choice for mudrooms or entryways. Other options include water-resistant luxury vinyl plank, luxury vinyl tile and laminate floors. Color variation is a plus, and choosing a floor that blends with what is being tracked in (dirt, leaves, etc.) is smart. - Keep it clean.
Have a broom and small towel handy to wipe down any debris on your entryway flooring and seating. Consider keeping a basket of supplies nearby for cleanups.
– Elisabeth Stubbs is one of the owners of Enhance Floors & More, one of Atlanta’s top-rated flooring dealers, located in Marietta.
Leave a Reply