How to Create a Practical Entryway Storage Space for Kids

I can’t count the number of times I’ve tripped over my kids' shoes, stepped on their jackets, or realized I’d forgotten the everyday small things we need when leaving the door.

Creating a dedicated entryway storage space has made it easier to encourage independence and practical systems that work for the whole family. If you live in an apartment like me, you may not have room for a full storage system, but a few hooks and baskets can make a big difference (and are very budget-friendly).

The key is making the space fit the needs of your family. We have five people in our home, so keeping things together and organized helps avoid more chaos before leaving home and coming back. There is no more “WHERE IS MY SHOE?!” or “MOM, I CAN'T FIND MY BACKPACK!” Everything has a place now and saves you from tantrums. Honestly, the entryway was a space that used to induce a lot of anxiety for me. Instead of giving my kids the responsibility to be independent, I was the one constantly picking up after them. So I challenge you: make your apartment easier for you to parent.

Here’s what the entryway looked like before we redecorated it. It was a bit messy, and our coats made it hard for the kids to put away their stuff.

The new setup gives them full liberty to be independent, own their space, and keep things organized.

Here are the specific products and DIY elements we used to create our entry space:

Calendar Map

This is a wooden and magnetic daily chart for kids. I love that it has pictures, and they can visually see their week-to-week. This is especially important for one of my neurodivergent kiddos.

The Product:

Charmspring Calendar Map

DIY Coat Rack

We bought wood from The Home Depot for about $5, and they cut the wood for free, so we made two bases for coat racks and bought hooks from Amazon. Since I wanted the base to be a specific color, we thought it was best to DIY it. However, you can get any hooks. The backpack holder is from IKEA and gets the job done.

The Products:

IKEA TJUSIG

Amazon Hooks

Home Depot Wood

Bench & Baskets

This is actually a shelf system that we’ve had for years and just laid it down to make it into a bench the kids could use to sit while putting on their shoes. The baskets are from IKEA and have helped keep everything we need to grab and go.

The Products:

IKEA Shelf System

IKEA SMÅGÖRA

Shoe Storage

I've had this piece for years, and it gets the job done. It’s from IKEA, and I painted it to match the color scheme of our apartment. It’s perfect for the kids' height and hides all their shoes.

The Product:

IKEA BISSA

Final Thoughts

These are small touches that can really change the entry area of your apartment on a budget, and if you’re up for some color, try some wallpaper or paint to add a fun touch.

Do you have an entryway that needs some help, or do you have a setup in place helping you thrive as a parent?