If your entryway feels more like a drop zone for chaos than a “Welcome Home” moment, you’re not alone.
We teamed up with our friend and a founding member of The Organizing Society, our app for organizing pros and enthusiasts, Caitlin McBride, to share the entryway systems that make life smoother for busy families without requiring a total renovation.
Caitlin is the founder of Home & Harmony, a Boston-based mom of two, and someone who totally gets that “mudroom” is often just a hallway and a prayer. Together, we’re breaking down what really works—no perfection required.
1. Create a Drop Zone for Every Person
Golden rule: if everything has a home, it doesn’t end up in a pile on the floor.
We’ve always said that customized systems are the secret sauce to long-term organization, and Caitlin’s right there with us. In her home, every family member gets their own bin, basket, hook, or cubby, and labels are a must. “There’s no second-guessing where things go,” Caitlin says. Plus, even adults need a friendly reminder now and then. (Looking at you, keys.)
2. Rotate by Season
Your entryway should reflect your current life, not the ghost of sports seasons’ past. Caitlin swaps gear depending on the month, so things stay relevant and manageable. Parkas in June? Absolutely not. Swim goggles in December? Also no. A little rotation keeps your system in check and your sanity intact.
3. The One-Touch Rule Is Real (And It Works)
Raise your hand if you’ve ever tossed something down and said, “I’ll deal with it later.” (All hands raised? Same.)
The one-touch rule is simple: put it where it goes the first time. “It’s my go-to habit,” Caitlin says. And we’re with her. Once it becomes second nature, you’ll spend less time playing hide-and-seek with your keys and more time leaving the house on time. Imagine that.
4. Don’t Forget Your Guests (Yes, Even the Surprise Ones)
You don’t need a guest wing. But a guest basket? That, we can do.
“Just a clear space for shoes or a bag makes people feel instantly welcome,” Caitlin says. And it protects your perfectly labeled family zones from accidental sabotage. Pro tip: keep one hook or basket unassigned so you can be guest-ready without the scramble.
5. Vertical Space Deserves a Standing Ovation
No built-ins? No problem. We’ve always said that vertical storage is the unsung hero of small spaces. Caitlin is right there with us.
She swears by over-the-door organizers for everything from sunscreen to sports gear, and loves a good Command hook moment. Functional, flexible, and renter-friendly? A triple win.
6. Don’t Overload the Space
Yes, we know the entryway feels like a great spot to sneak in bulk paper towels. But let’s not.
“These spaces are high-traffic and should be focused on daily-use items,” Caitlin says. Overflow storage only leads to overflow chaos. Keep the backups in the garage, pantry, or utility closet. Your future self will thank you (and so will your floor space).
7. Use Products That Actually Make Life Easier
Pretty is great. Pretty and practical? Now we’re talking.
Caitlin swears by the Home Edit 10x10 Large Bin from our Walmart collection. “Each of my kids has one by the door with their go-to gear,” she says. “Jerseys, shin guards, mouth guards—it’s all in one spot, ready to grab and go.” If that’s not a parenting win, we don’t know what is.
Ready for an Entryway That Works Smarter, Not Harder?
We’ll always love a beautifully styled shelf or a perfectly lined row of hooks, but what do we love even more? Systems that stick. Whether it’s Caitlin’s real-life solutions or our signature product picks, the magic comes from keeping it simple and sustainable.
Want more tips like these from our favorite organizers (and access to exclusive perks, product picks, and community)? Come join us in The Organizing Society. We made it for label lovers like you—and trust us, your entryway 100% will thank you.
