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How to Create the Perfect Mudroom

Mudroom

With fall and winter around the corner, it’s time to put some thought into creating the perfect mudroom. Mudrooms are an important part of the home, especially if you and your family enjoy spending time outdoors. The mudroom is the perfect in-between space from outside to inside where you can store boots and clothes and don’t have to worry about trekking in mud, snow, and leaves. A mudroom is a transitional area that functions as a boundary and helps keep the great outdoors from seeping into your home. If you find yourself frequently faced with muddy boots, wet rain gear, winter coats, smelly sports equipment, or dirty paws, then perhaps it’s time to consider adding or updating the mudroom. With the right planning, a mudroom doesn’t just have to be a dumping ground, but it can also be a multifunctional marvel.

You should consider some key points when creating the perfect mudroom. Flooring, seating, and storage are the defining characteristics of a great mudroom and should be carefully considered when designing this versatile space.


Flooring

Wet Floor

The ideal mudroom floor is durable, waterproof, long-lasting, and easy to clean. It should also be able to weather stains, splashes, and smudges. We recommend using natural floorings such as brick, stone, slate, or ceramic tile. Reclaimed brick offers a charming rustic look and can be sealed with a sealant for easy mopping. A darker colored tile paired with dark-toned grout is a durable and low maintenance option that is perfect for a mudroom. You can also opt for hardwood floors, which can be sanded and recoated if they get worn down. These floorings check all the boxes as they are easy to wipe clean and will withstand many years of high usage. The subtle refinement of natural materials will add a distinction to an often underrated area of the house.


Function

Dirty floor

Every family and every home have unique needs, and your family’s needs are important to determine when planning your mudroom. Depending on your family’s size, pets, and degree of outdoor activity, the mudroom should be designed around all of these variables. When creating or redoing your mudroom, be sure to take the time to think through all of your space, storage, and function needs.


Space

Mudroom

The amount of available space is going to be a big determining factor when creating the perfect mudroom. If you are adding a new space onto your house for a mudroom, then the size of the mudroom should be based on your various function and storage needs. If you are redoing an existing space, be sure to modify it according to your requirements. If space is limited, a mudroom can also be made in the corner of an existing room or hallway. Simply placing some coat hangers, a storage cubby that doubles as a bench, and a waterproof rug in one side of the hallway could be all you need for the perfect mudroom. If you have more space and prefer to have the mudroom serve more functions, such as housing the washer, dryer, and sinks for tidying up, you will want more space. Mudrooms can be as large or as small and as multifunctional as you’d like!


Storage

Storage

Storage is absolutely key when creating the perfect mudroom. In fact, many would argue that storage is why mudrooms exist in the first place. Regardless of the size of your mudroom, maximizing your storage is the best way to get the most from your mudroom. In addition to the usual coat racks and hangers, you will want to get creative with other storage options. Have your seating double as a shoe rack, or, choose benches that are flip benches to make them useful storage space. Add a cubby system to your closet so each member of the family has a shelf that is for just their belongings. You can also add a cubby system for smaller items such as mail, keys, and wallets. This will help keep things organized and also save time during the morning rush. Mudrooms are perfect for storing outerwear, including bulky items like ski jackets and snow boots. Keep out-of-season sports equipment and clothes in storage boxes and keep them stacked or tucked neatly in closets or under seating. Enhancing your mudroom storage space is an opportunity to get creative.


Water and Lighting

Laundry Room

We recommend installing good lighting in the mudroom so you don’t have to rummage for things in the dark. This can include adding in closet lighting to be sure nothing gets lost. If your space allows it, having a water hookup in the mudroom is a great perk. This will expand your mudroom’s functionality and allow for laundry, an oversized sink, or a place for washing your pets. Being able to toss soiled outerwear straight into the washer or sink will save time and hassle. If you prefer to keep your mudroom separate from the laundry functions, then perhaps keep them close together in your home for easy access.


Personal Details

Hanging picture

Like the rest of your home, you will want to make your mudroom personal. While the mudroom can sometimes get neglected when decorating your home, adding some personalized touches to a mudroom can go a long way to make it feel cozy and more like home. From a design perspective, this could be selecting an interesting tile for the floors or a brightly colored wallpaper or paint. Also, explore adding nice cushions to benches, an entrance hall mirror, monogrammed storage bins, framed artwork, and anything else that makes you feel at home.


The mudroom seems simple but is in fact one of the most important rooms or spaces in your house. Creating the perfect mudroom will help keep the house clean and orderly. Though the mudroom is the transitional space from outside to indoors, when you walk through the door you still want to feel like you’re arriving home.


While do-it-yourself projects can be fun and fulfilling, there is always a potential for personal injury or property damage. We strongly suggest that any project beyond your abilities be left to licensed professionals such as electricians, plumbers, and carpenters. Any action you take upon the information on this website is strictly at your own risk, and we assume no responsibility or liability for the contents of this article.