Remodeling Your Garage Into A Mudroom
Talk to any avid outdoorsman or mom of active kids, and one thing would likely top their domestic wish lists: a mudroom. Unfortunately, most homeowners are reluctant to create a mudroom if it means cutting into other essential spaces, such as kitchens and dens. That’s why a garage mudroom is an ideal solution. Here’s how to make it happen.
Garage mudroom prerequisites
It should be noted that properly creating a garage mudroom requires an attached garage — the whole point is a seamless transition out of the messy elements into your (hopefully) tidy home. If you have a detached garage, you can convert space just inside a side or rear entryway into a mudroom, or plan a modestly sized addition.
Consider your mudroom storage needs
Before planning the space, it’s important to first understand your mudroom storage needs. Will you merely be tucking away coats and boots, or do you need a place for all of the other detritus of daily life – from laundry and gardening supplies to backpacks and sporting gear?
Likely, you’ll need the latter, which is why a garage mudroom makeover is a savvy choice for many homeowners. They’re comparatively large in square footage just waiting to be put to use in a meaningful way. Even better? Keeping recreational items in your garage helps contain clutter outside of your immediate living space.
Mix it up with your mudroom storage solutions
Once you’ve assessed your space and cleaned it out, it’s time to choose your garage mudroom storage solutions. Going with one type of storage mechanism misses the point entirely: different types of goods require different forms of storage.
For example, coats, hats, and backpacks can be inexpensively kept off the floor through the simple addition of wall hooks. Just make sure to keep them at a height that’s easily accessible for smaller children. This also helps you maximize vertical space – a smart move on the part of any space-challenged homeowner.
Mounted shelving is another way to use your walls; this is the perfect way to tuck away seasonal gear, such as hats, gloves, and scarves.
Other items, such as umbrellas and soccer cleats, may not be used as frequently and can be tucked away in enclosed storage space, such as heavy-duty cabinets.
Just remember to keep like with like and to label everything. A truly functional mudroom is well-organized, accessible, and easy to maintain.
Some families also find it useful to designate a storage cabinet for each member of your family. This way they’ll know where to look before turning to you for help finding their tennis racquet. After all, you could probably live without ever again hearing the words, “Mom, I can’t find my lacrosse stick/ski boots/fishing pole!”
Think up … and down
We’ve already established the importance of using vertical space, but don’t forget about your floors. When planning a garage mudroom, it’s important to select flooring that can hold up to everyday wear and tear – particularly since it will be used four seasons out of the year, and subjected to everything from sand and gravel to snow and ice. Make sure it can be mopped with ease and is relatively scratch-proof (we recommend tile or vinyl plank flooring).
Speaking of down, don’t forget places for people to sit. If there is no place to stop and remove footwear, your home’s inhabitants will inevitably make their way into your house with their shoes on, defeating the purpose of your mudroom. A simple bench works fine, although choosing one with storage functionality adds an additional element of usefulness.
Clean up on your garage mudroom idea with Ayars
Do you have the desire to create a garage mudroom but your picture is still a little muddy? Let the team at Ayars help sort it out, and you’ll be on your way to to living a cleaner, more clutter-free life.
