First impressions matter, which is why we always try to look presentable during first meetings. Similarly, the entryway in our homes serves this purpose. Our landing pad sets the tone for the rest of the house. Unfortunately, for many, this space has turned into a dumping ground for clutter.
It is easy to drop items in the entryway, especially if they do not have a designated place yet. We tend to overlook this area since we spend so little time there—whether we are rushing out or excitedly coming back home.
Yet, the entryway plays an important role in our home. It acts as a transition zone, slowing the shift from outside to inside and creating a controlled, welcoming space that reflects the environment beyond it.
So, In this guide, we’ll identify the common culprits of entryway clutter and share tips on how to keep this space tidy and organized. Here are the things to remove from the entryway to keep this space tidy and organized.
1. Paper Clutters
Papers are one of the biggest sources of clutter in our entryway. These often include bills, subscription notices, school letters, and other memos we receive every month.
We get it. Sometimes, it can be tempting to ignore responsibilities and escape reality. So, we often toss papers aside upon entering to get them out of sight. However, this seemingly harmless habit can turn your entryway into a chaotic mess.
To tackle paper clutter in your entryway, designate a specific spot for incoming mail. Use an organizer or drawer with multiple compartments for storage. Of course, you still need to regularly sort through your mail and discard unnecessary items to keep the clutter from piling up.
2. Parcels and Packages
If you tend to go overboard during sales events, it is easy for your entryway to become cluttered. Since multiple deliveries are arriving on our doorstep, it can be tempting to leave all your packages there and just deal with them later.
If you’re tired of the clutter, it’s time to find a better spot for your online purchases and packages. We also recommend making it a habit to open packages as they arrive. This not only helps maintain a tidy entryway but also ensures you can check for any product damage right away.
3. Rarely Used Items![]()
Exercise equipment, camping boots, books, and power tools—these are just some of the things that often linger in our entryway despite being rarely used. This is often because we think placing items there will temporarily clear the clutter from other parts of the house. But, this is not a long-term solution.
When these items stay in the entryway too long, they become clutter themselves. To prevent this, consider storing your rarely used items in areas with less foot traffic and that are out of plain sight. This way, you’ll only access them when you actually need them.
4. Excessive Decor
We all want an aesthetically pleasing entryway. However, this desire can sometimes lead to clutter when we over-decorate the space. Too many decorations can make your entryway feel chaotic rather than inviting.
Try a minimalist approach for your doorway decoration. Trust us, a single, well-chosen art piece can look far more elegant than an assortment of decorations. Better yet, consider using functional decor like a wooden pegboard. This customizable storage solution allows you to adjust the arrangement and contents to suit your needs.
Use it to display decorative items, hang small tools, or organize essentials. Just remember not to overcrowd it.6.
5. Excess Bags and Totes
Every now and then, we buy new bags and store them in the entryway for easy access. That’s perfectly fine; our styles and tastes evolve, after all. However, hanging all your bags in the entryway can quickly make your space look cluttered.
We suggest leaving only one or two of your favorite bags in the entryway for daily use. Store the rest elsewhere, especially those reserved for special occasions, to maintain a clean and organized look.
6. Too Much Footwear
Footwear naturally belongs in entryways. After all, shoes are the first thing we take off when we step inside and the last thing we put on before leaving.
However, too many pairs in the entryway can create a cluttered look. A wooden shoe rack is a great solution to organize your footwear in a more stylish way. But even with a rack, we recommend keeping only the pairs you regularly use in the entryway. Limiting the number of items ensures the space remains neat and inviting.
Create a Decluttering Routine
It is easy to view the entryway as a temporary storage space for items without a proper home. However, when certain items are consistently left there, it can become a habit—and habits like this often lead to a cluttered entryway.
A good rule of thumb is: if it is not used daily, it does not belong in the entryway. Commit to a regular decluttering routine to prevent clutter from building up over time. This simple habit keeps your entryway tidy and functional.
