For the love of shoes!  I’m always picking them up, moving them from closet to closet, tripping over them, kicking them aside, but they never seem to go away.  I’ll start with a grand plan, a plan that (in my dreams) results in a bag of shoes taking a journey to Goodwill.  It always ends the same, though.  I come to my familiar realization that every pair is different and wonderful, and each has it own unique, irreplaceable purpose in this world.  (Sigh).  So what am I to do?!  How can I Can the Clutter and manage the mudroom, organize the shoes (and backpacks, jackets, water bottles, etc.), yet keep everything accessible and practical?

Here’s an example of a typical day in the life of my mudroom.  It started off, like all other days.  The shoes were neatly placed in their designated cubbies.  Then the usual things happened.  The people that live here (aka my family) decided to wear the shoes, and the saga began.

I need a plan.  As a professional organizer, I think “This is unacceptable in my home!”  However, as a mother of three, and current citizen of planet Earth, I tend to be a little more realistic.  Not only will adding some storage containers eliminate the emotional and physical dangers (yes, dangers) of the shoe problem, but it will also help my kids keep track of and be responsible for their things.  It’s a win/win!

Here’s my strategy, and some tips to help you get started managing your mudroom, entry way or coat/shoe closet:

• Contained clutter is always better than visual clutter.  It is always better to have a container to use for storing (aka hiding the shoes).

• Plastic containers work best for shoes that tend to get dirty (kids’ shoes), so you don’t have to worry about dirt falling through the weave onto the floor.
• Containers are best for everyday shoes, like flip-flops or tennis shoes, while a rack is more practical for dress shoes or boots.
• An inexpensive, sturdy wicker basket is easy to find and maximizes the space.  You’ll want enough space at the top, so you don’t have to pull the basket out to put the shoes away.  Remember, with kids if there is any work involved, it may not happen.

• Symmetry is lovely (for, oh so many reasons).  Matching baskets have a nice, clean look.  You can have symmetry with a bit of variety, too.  See the top baskets where we have done something different, but it is still balanced?  (My daughter’s name is Megan, and she is the middle child and only girl.)
• The top baskets/bins are for their personal items that they leave around the house.  They know if they can’t find something to look in their basket.

These simple storage techniques can help you manage your mudroom, and put an end to the shoe drama.  Let’s face it, the shoes are here to stay.  It’s time to show them who’s boss, and put them in their place!