Create an Entryway

Create the perfect mud space/entryway with no built-ins! Having an entryway set up helps keep clutter out of other areas and it also helps you get out of the door faster. Have you ever wasted 10 precious morning minutes looking for your keys? Having an entryway will solve that. What you'll need: hooks, a mirror, a bench, a basket, and a rug!

When looking for hooks think of what you'll be hanging on them: jackets, coats, backpacks, purses, hats, keys, etc. Make sure you select hooks made in a shape that accommodates what you'll be hanging up. Hooks with an end too wide to get keys over usually also don't hold jackets well-they just slip off. You can pick individual hooks that you can screw in yourself or you can pick a piece of wood with hooks already attached. These can usually be put up with command strips if you don't want to put holes in the wall; just keep the weight limit in mind.

Next you'll need a mirror for your last minute check before you walk out of the door. Make sure it's big enough and make sure it's something that represents you.

When searching for a bench consider that you may put dirty shoes on it so make sure it's something you can clean easily. Some benches open up and you can hide the shoes inside. Think about what you would prefer and choose something that will suit your needs.

A basket can be for umbrellas, backpacks, bags, etc. Think about what you'll want to put in your basket before selecting one. An umbrella won't stay upright in a short basket, so you'll need to pick something tall. If you'd rather put your backpack in a basket than hanging it up (or if your backpack is too heavy to hang), measure the backpack before you pick your basket to ensure it will fit comfortably.

Now you'll pick your rug. Pick something durable and fun; it's the last and the first thing you'll see when coming in and out of your residence. Try to find something that will keep a grip on the floor when you wipe your shoes on it. As always, make sure to pick something that reflects you!

The fun part is hanging everything up and getting everything just as you like it. You'll be able to make tweaks to get everything just right-enjoy your entryway!

Donation Options

So you decluttered; you've decided to part with your excess items and items that no longer suit your life. What now? Place all of your donation items in bags or boxes and put them straight in your car. Don't let them gather in the garage or by the door because that is where they will stay and linger at the back of your mind and add to your to-do list. Let's get this one done. Remember, the quicker you donate your items, the quicker someone else can benefit from them.

Make sure your donation items are not trash. Donation centers need to be able to give your items to those in need, not just fill up their dumpster. One stop donation options are donation centers that are already set up. Simply find one near you and drive your donations to their drop-off space and unload! Look for Goodwill, Salvation Army, habitat for humanity, or a local donation center sometimes run by a resale shop or church. You may have also seen a freestanding donation station in a parking lot. These are self-serve donation centers where you can unload your own items at any time so feel free to use them! If it is near the holidays, there may be a local donation drive for something specific like toys or bikes so if you would like to make a special trip, you'll be making a child very happy.

If you have items that are too large or too heavy for you to transport, take a photo of the item and post it on a site like Facebook marketplace or Craigslist. In the description of your item, be sure to specify that pickup is required. You can also search for companies like Thrive that will come pick up the item for you.

Once you've donated your items, take a moment to pay yourself on the back! Now you will be able to better appreciate the items you have chosen to keep in your home and you will be more aware of the items you bring into your home.