3 DIY Mudroom Storage Ideas

Key Takeaways

• DIY mudroom storage saves thousands compared to professional installs. You can build a custom setup for a fraction of the $8,000–$16,000 price tag contractors charge, while still achieving a polished, built-in look.

• Three main styles fit different needs and spaces. A built-in bench with cubbies works best for families, a wall-mounted hook and shelf system suits small or rental spaces, and locker-style storage offers a high-end, floor-to-ceiling solution for bigger homes.

• Each design can be tailored to your space and habits. From adjustable hooks to cubbies and closed cabinets, you can choose a setup that matches your family’s routine, storage needs, and available space.

• Quality materials make all the difference. Solid wood, sturdy hardware, and good finishes ensure your DIY project withstands years of muddy boots, backpacks, and daily wear.

• John Louis Home provides a smart middle-ground solution with ready-made solid wood storage systems that are DIY-friendly to install but eliminate the complexity of building from scratch, giving you professional-quality mudroom storage at a fraction of custom carpentry costs.

Why DIY Mudroom Storage Makes Sense

Your entryway takes a beating: muddy boots, dripping coats, scattered backpacks, and those mystery shoes that seem to multiply overnight. Sound familiar? A well-organized mudroom keeps the mess under control, but hiring a professional can cost anywhere between $8,000 and $16,000 for a full setup.

Here’s the upside: you can handle mudroom storage on your own and save a significant amount. A DIY project lets you design a space that fits your family’s routine while spending just a fraction of what contractors charge. With the right approach, even a compact hallway can transform into a functional, stylish entry that keeps everything in its place.

3 Best DIY Mudroom Storage Ideas

1. Built-In Bench with Cubbies

A built-in mudroom bench combines open cubbies for shoes, brass hooks for bags and coats, and cushioned seating to keep everything organized in one spot. (Image courtesy of the Spruce / Christopher Lee Foto)

A bench with built-in cubbies delivers maximum storage in one piece. This setup typically includes a seat for putting on shoes, open cubbies underneath for shoe storage, and individual compartments above with hooks for coats and bags.

Materials You'll Need

• 3/4-inch plywood for the frame and seat

• 3/8-inch plywood for backing

• Pocket hole screws and wood glue

• Sandpaper and primer

• Paint or stain

• Coat hooks

Why It Works

This design gives everyone in your family their own designated space, which cuts down on the "where's my backpack?" morning chaos. 

The bench provides comfortable seating right where you need it, and the open cubbies below make grabbing shoes quick and easy. You can customize the number of compartments based on your household size; four cubbies work well for most families.

Building this yourself typically costs $500–$800 in materials, compared to $2,000–$4,000 for a custom-built version. The project takes a weekend or two for most DIYers, and you'll end up with storage that looks built-in and professional.

Best For

It’s perfect for families with multiple kids who need personalized storage zones, homes with dedicated mudroom space, and anyone wanting a complete storage solution in one piece.

2. Wall-Mounted Hook & Shelf System

Wall-mounted hooks paired with open cubbies and baskets create mudroom storage that's easy to install and keeps floor space clear while organizing coats, shoes, and daily essentials.

Sometimes the simplest solution works best. A wall-mounted hook and shelf system gives you essential mudroom storage without eating up floor space or requiring complex carpentry skills.

Materials You'll Need

• Solid wood boards or pre-made floating shelf

• Sturdy wall hooks (metal or wood)

• Wall anchors and screws

• Optional: decorative board and batten paneling

• Baskets for shelf storage

Why It Works

This approach transforms any wall into functional storage in just a few hours. The shelf provides a landing spot for keys, mail, and small items, while hooks below handle coats, bags, and umbrellas. Adding board and batten paneling creates visual interest and protects walls from scuffs.

The beauty of this system lies in its flexibility. You can adjust hook spacing based on what you're hanging, add more shelves as needs change, and install it in rentals without major modifications. Material costs typically run $100-$300, making this the most budget-friendly option.

Best For

Renters who need removable solutions, small entryways with limited floor space, minimalists who prefer clean designs, and anyone tackling their first DIY project will find this idea doable. 

3. Customizable Closet-Style Storage

Closet-style mudroom storage gives a clean look with drawers and upper cubbies that keep seasonal gear hidden while keeping everyday items within easy reach. 

Locker-style storage brings that organized, everything-in-its-place feeling to your entryway. These floor-to-ceiling units typically include storage towers made of shelves, coat hooks, and upper cubbies for seasonal items.

Materials You'll Need

• Baltic birch plywood (four 4x8 sheets for a standard setup)

• Pocket hole jig and screws

• Cabinet hardware and hinges

• Hooks and shelf brackets

• Paint or stain

• Optional: doors for upper cabinets

Why It Works

Storage towers maximize vertical space, which matters when your mudroom footprint is limited. The closed cubbies on top hide away seasonal gear like winter hats and gloves during summer, keeping the space looking neat. Lower open compartments make daily items easily accessible without requiring kids to open doors or drawers they might forget to close.

This project takes more time and skill than the first two options, so plan to set aside about a week to complete it. The payoff, however, is well worth the effort. You'll create custom storage that rivals professional installations while spending $500–$1,500 on materials instead of $4,000–$5,000 on custom carpentry.

Best For

This is suitable for households with heavy storage needs, permanent homeowners ready for a bigger project, families who want a polished built-in look, and spaces that can accommodate full-height installations.

Tips for Choosing the Right DIY Mudroom Storage Solution

Before you start building, consider these tips to help you choose the best DIY mudroom storage solution for your space and lifestyle.

• Consider Your Space: Measure carefully before committing to a design. Benches need at least 15-18 inches of depth, while lockers typically require 24-30 inches. Small entryways might work better with wall-mounted solutions that don't eat up precious floor space.

• Think About Daily Habits: Match your storage to how your family actually behaves. If kids won't hang up coats, open hooks work better than closets. If you have pets, a lower shelf or basket for leashes and toys keeps supplies organized.

• Start With Quality Materials: Using solid wood and quality hardware means your DIY mudroom storage will hold up to daily abuse. Cheap particleboard might save money upfront, but it won't survive years of wet boots and heavy backpacks.

Why Choose John Louis Home for Your Mudroom Storage Solutions

John Louis Home’s solid wood hall trees and benches offer durable, customizable mudroom storage that combines easy DIY installation with a polished, built-in look.

While these DIY mudroom ideas create functional storage, John Louis Home offers ready-made solutions that combine DIY-friendly installation with professional quality. Our solid wood systems eliminate the guesswork of building from scratch while still giving you that satisfying hands-on experience.

Our storage systems are crafted from 100% Grade A white pine, providing the durability that mudroom spaces demand. Unlike particleboard or laminate options that tend to sag under pressure, our solid wood construction is built to last. It easily supports heavy coats, full backpacks, and years of daily use without bending or breaking.

The cut-to-fit design means you can customize any space, whether you're working with a standard entryway or an oddly shaped nook. Many customers discover that leftover pieces from their main installation create bonus storage in other areas of the home.

What Sets John Louis Home Apart:

• Fast, free shipping across the US gets your project moving without wait times or shipping fees

• DIY-friendly installation with detailed guides and videos that walk you through every step

• Expandable systems that grow with your needs—add components as your family changes

• Multiple finishes, including natural, honey, espresso, and white to match your home's style

• Solid wood furniture collection featuring cube organizers, shoe benches, and hall trees that coordinate with your mudroom storage

When you choose John Louis Home, you're getting storage that looks custom-built without the custom price tag or the hassle of starting from scratch.

Explore John Louis Home Collection Now→

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What's the easiest DIY mudroom project for beginners?

A wall-mounted hook and shelf system is the most beginner-friendly mudroom project. It requires basic tools, takes just a few hours to complete, and doesn't involve complex carpentry skills. You'll only need a drill, level, and basic measuring tools to create functional storage that looks great.

How deep should a mudroom bench be?

Mudroom benches should be 15–18 inches deep for comfortable seating. This depth provides enough room to sit down and put on shoes without feeling cramped. If you're adding shoe storage underneath, plan for at least 16 inches of depth to accommodate most shoe sizes.

Can I build mudroom storage in a small entryway?

Yes, small entryways work perfectly with wall-mounted solutions that don't require floor space. A shelf with hooks underneath provides essential storage in just 10–12 inches of wall depth. You can also install a narrow bench (12–15 inches deep) with wall hooks above for a compact but functional setup.

What's the best wood for DIY mudroom projects?

Solid woods like pine, oak, or birch work best for mudroom storage because they handle moisture and heavy use better than particleboard or MDF. Baltic birch plywood is an excellent choice for DIY projects. It's strong, affordable, and takes paint or stain beautifully while resisting warping in high-traffic areas.

Are John Louis Home systems suitable for mudroom storage?

Yes, John Louis Home's solid wood systems are ideal for mudrooms. Made from 100% Grade A white pine, they withstand heavy daily use from coats, backpacks, and wet gear. The cut-to-fit design lets you customize any entryway space, and the DIY-friendly installation means you can set up organized mudroom storage in a weekend without professional help.

*Note: Pricing and product availability mentioned in this post are subject to change. Please check the website for current pricing and stock information before making a purchase.