25 Entryway Storage Ideas

A messy entryway is like an awkward handshake—uncomfortable and not exactly the first impression you want to give. That’s why entryway storage matters.

You don’t need a mansion-level foyer to keep things tidy; smart design choices can turn even the smallest nooks into highly functional spaces. Let’s walk through 25 practical, modern, and stylish storage ideas you can actually use.

1. Wall-Mounted Hooks for Everyday Essentials

When you walk in, the first instinct is to drop what’s in your hands. Wall-mounted hooks solve this problem instantly.

They’re cheap, easy to install, and keep jackets, hats, and bags organized. Design experts note that 75% of homeowners prefer hooks in their entryways because of their practicality.

If you want a sleek modern vibe, go for matte black or brass finishes.

2. Floating Shelves with Baskets

A bare wall is wasted real estate. Installing floating shelves with decorative baskets gives you storage without making the space feel cramped.

I once turned a narrow wall near my entry into a “catch-all” using floating shelves—it looked intentional and solved the daily clutter crisis.

3. Storage Benches for Shoes and Seating

A storage bench is one of the smartest investments you can make. It provides a seat for putting on shoes and doubles as hidden storage underneath.

According to Zillow, homes with mudroom-like storage areas, including benches, are 5% more attractive to buyers.

4. Over-the-Door Racks

If you’re working with limited space, over-the-door racks are lifesavers. They’re perfect for umbrellas, scarves, or even slim shoe organizers.

Think of it as turning the back of the door into bonus storage.

5. Built-In Cabinets for a Polished Look

If you’re ready for a renovation, built-in cabinets bring order and elegance. They hide everything from shoes to backpacks behind closed doors.

Families often swear by this idea because it turns chaos into calm with one pull of a handle.

6. Shoe Racks that Save Floor Space

Shoes are the number one clutter culprit in entryways. A slim vertical shoe rack or angled storage keeps footwear neat and accessible.

Some modern versions even have rotating tiers—like a lazy Susan, but for sneakers.

7. Narrow Consoles with Drawers

For compact spaces, a narrow console table with drawers is ideal. It doesn’t block the walkway but still gives you storage for keys, mail, and other daily items. Add a decorative bowl on top, and suddenly it looks curated instead of functional.

8. Hidden Storage Ottomans

A storage ottoman near the door can hide shoes, throw blankets, or even pet accessories. The beauty is, nobody will suspect it’s stuffed inside. I had one in my last apartment, and it saved me during unexpected guest visits—shoes disappeared in seconds.

9. Pegboards for Flexible Storage

Pegboards aren’t just for workshops. In a modern entryway, they’re genius for hanging hats, bags, and even small shelves. The best part is that they’re endlessly customizable. You can move hooks around as your needs change.

10. Rolling Carts for Seasonal Gear

A slim rolling cart fits neatly into small corners and can store gloves, scarves, or sports gear. When the season changes, roll it out, swap contents, and roll it back. It’s flexible storage at its best.

11. Under-Bench Shoe Drawers

If you already have a bench, add pull-out drawers underneath. This way, you won’t have shoes spilling out everywhere. According to The Spruce, hidden shoe drawers are among the top requested features in modern mudrooms.

12. Coat Trees with Modern Design

A coat tree is like a friendly butler at the door. Modern versions come in sleek wood or metal finishes that don’t look outdated. They take little floor space while holding coats, hats, and bags.

13. Mail and Key Organizers on Walls

Nothing clutters a space faster than mail scattered across surfaces. A wall-mounted mail sorter with hooks for keys prevents this. You’ll always know where your bills and car keys are—no more frantic searching.

14. Sliding Door Cabinets

For narrow hallways, sliding door cabinets work better than swing-door ones. They provide storage while keeping the walkway free. This is a small-space trick often used in Japanese homes where every inch counts.

15. Corner Shelving Units

Corners are often ignored. Adding a corner shelf unit maximizes space without blocking flow. It’s perfect for baskets of gloves, decorative items, or even a small plant to add freshness.

16. Cubbies for Family Members

If you have kids, designate individual cubbies. Everyone gets their own spot for shoes, bags, and jackets. It cuts down arguments and keeps things organized. Many families find this system keeps school mornings far less chaotic.

17. Drawer Units Under Stairs

Got stairs near your entryway? Don’t waste that golden real estate. Install pull-out drawers under the stairs for shoes, seasonal items, or sports gear. It’s hidden storage that looks sleek and modern.

18. Hanging Baskets for Quick Storage

Hanging baskets on walls or hooks are great for small items like gloves, dog leashes, or reusable grocery bags. They’re budget-friendly, easy to move, and give your entryway a casual but intentional vibe.

19. Fold-Down Desks for Mail Sorting

If you want a mini home command center, install a fold-down desk in your entryway. It stores mail, chargers, and notepads but folds flat against the wall when not in use. Perfect for small apartments.

20. Glass-Front Cabinets for Display and Storage

If you want both storage and display, go for glass-front cabinets. You can showcase pretty baskets inside while hiding less attractive items. It adds a polished look without losing practicality.

21. Shoe Trays to Contain Mess

A simple but effective idea: shoe trays. They keep dirt and water from spreading across your floors. Pair them with a mat, and your cleaning time drops dramatically.

22. Multipurpose Hall Trees

A hall tree is the Swiss Army knife of entryway furniture. It usually includes hooks, a bench, shoe storage, and sometimes even shelves. If you want a one-stop solution, this is it.

23. Pull-Out Baskets in Cabinets

Instead of static shelves, install pull-out baskets inside cabinets. They make it easier to grab things quickly and keep everything organized. It’s especially great for kids’ gear or pet supplies.

24. Ceiling-Mounted Racks for Rarely Used Items

If you’re short on floor space, look up. Ceiling-mounted racks can hold items you don’t need daily, like seasonal sports equipment or extra umbrellas. It’s an underused idea that adds a surprising amount of storage.

25. Labels for a Stress-Free System

Whatever storage system you choose, labels make it foolproof. Whether it’s baskets, bins, or cubbies, labels prevent the daily “where did I put that?” chaos. It may seem small, but it saves time and frustration.

Conclusion on 25 Entryway Storage Ideas

The entryway sets the tone for the whole house, and clutter is the fastest way to make it feel chaotic.

With these 25 storage ideas, you don’t just hide the mess—you create a welcoming, functional space that works for your lifestyle.

From budget-friendly solutions like hooks and baskets to bigger investments like built-ins and hall trees, there’s something for every space and budget.