Charles the Butler's best tips for a streamlined entryway that really works for you

The front entry is typically the first room that guests see when they arrive, and it's also the room that gets the least amount of attention when it comes to design. Rather than it just being a dumping ground for our kids' boots and backpacks, Charles shares a few rules to keep the space organized. 

Start Fresh

This is the basic rule of all re-organization projects: Take everything out and organize it by type of item. 

Give It A Good Clean

This might just be the dustiest room in the house, thanks to the constant flow of traffic in and out. Vacuum the floors to get all the dirt and salt out and then give it a good wipe down or mop. You can use water and vinegar with a microfiber cloth

When transitioning your closet, never put things away dirty.  At the end of the season check your garments for missing buttons or broken zippers, have them repaired and then have your garments dry cleaned or if you can wash it yourself.  Once it is clean, that is the time to put it away until the next time it is needed.

As you pull things out for the spring, look to see if things need to be steamed and or if they smell fresh.  You may want to air out your garments on a clothing rack for a few days or week before starting to wear them.

Have A Plan When You Put Things Back

Pesky things like umbrellas and boots, are easy to store in plastic bins/tubs, that can go under a bed or in a basement. Look storage solutions for everything. If all items have a designated place, your kids are more likely to put them where they belong.

Think about what you can donate and what you can store

Don’t take up space in your home by storing things that you don’t use. Donate whatever you're able to part with and enjoy the extra space.

Switch Items Seasonally

Keep one season's worth of items in the space unless you have tons of room. Once the snow flies, swap out your sun hats for toques and mits, and as the weather starts warming up, pack up your winter gear and switch it out for your summer accessories and footwear. This way you're not digging through big piles of items to find the one thing you need.
 
Make use of storage solutions likes these from IKEA 

Hemnes Wardrobe, $369
Hemnes Chest, $269
Skubb Hanging Organizer, $9.99
Skubb Box, $9.99
Skubb Storage Case, $12.99