This article centers around our mudroom closet transformation!
I’m an enthusiastic supporter of DIY endeavors that enhance the utility of a compact area. Recently, I fashioned a mudroom environment in the small space between our garage entrance and laundry area.
Now my children can access their own coat hooks and backpacks, and we can all locate what we require to departure on schedule. Well, occasionally 😉
Continue reading for compact mudroom suggestions for additional storage and organization. This would also serve as an excellent solution for a small coat closet located near a front entrance.
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Transforming a Small Coat Closet Into a Mini Mudroom
This section offers detailed steps for a DIY mudroom closet transformation. As usual, please leave me a message at the end of the article if you have any inquiries!
1. Take Off the Entryway Closet Door
The first task when establishing a mudroom closet is to detach the current closet doors.
Our entryway closet featured two doors that swung out into our modest garage entrance, causing constant traffic complications. I was thrilled to get rid of them!
The simplest method to take down an indoor hanging door is to unscrew the hinges from the door frame. It’s wise to seek assistance with this step, as the doors can be cumbersome and difficult to maneuver.
Alternatively, you might have a bi-fold door that tends to jam and pinch fingers. I recommend viewing a YouTube tutorial for a detailed process on how to remove bifold doors. (Essentially, once the doors are out, you’ll need to unscrew the top track and bottom supports.)
2. Take Out the Coat Closet Wire Shelves
Next, it’s time to take out the current shelving in the closet. This is a straightforward home project for beginners!
I have discussed how to remove wire shelves in several other articles that you can consult for further details. Check out my post on Replacing Wire Pantry Shelves on a Budget for a step-by-step guide!
Related: I also took out the wire shelving in my Walk-In Closet Home Office.
3. Fill Holes in Walls and Door Frame
Thirdly, I utilized spackle, a putty knife, and a sanding block to mend the holes in the closet wall. Allow the spackle to dry before sanding, and consider applying a second layer if necessary.
For the holes in the wooden door frame and the cutouts from the hinges, the best option would be wood filler. Nevertheless, I ended up using the spackle I had available, and it has been holding up well so far.
4. Fresh Coat of Paint for Closet and Door Frame
Now that the preparation work is complete, it’s time to dive into the enjoyable part of this DIY mudroom closet transformation!
Initially, choose a paint hue. While I’m a significant admirer of white paint, I opted to use leftover paint I already possessed to avoid additional expenses.
I selected the color Revere Pewter by Benjamin Moore in a satin finish, as I had ample left from painting my interior doors. I actually had the color matched at Home Depot in Behr Marquee, my favorite brand of paint.
Pro tip:For optimal results, I consistently use this shed-resistant roller with this roller frame, along with a quality paintbrush. In addition to painting the inside of the closet, I also painted the door frame trim piece to match our other interior doors.
A new layer of paint transformed the entire area, making it feel much more pleasant! Additionally, I am confident that the satin finish on the closet walls will endure far better than the flat, standard-issue paint. (After tackling a few more closets and our two-story entryway, I will have finished repainting this whole house—hooray!)
5. Optional: Install a Curtain Rod and Curtains
This step isn’t essential, but I chose to put up curtains on the inside of the closet to conceal our mini mudroom from sight. I used budget-friendly plaid curtains, brackets, finials, and this curtain rod from IKEA.
You might also consider adding curtains on the outside of the entryway closet, if there is ample space. Personally, I prefer the appearance of the curtains
on the interior, and it also performs better for our compact space!
Here are additional adorable curtains that you could utilize to disguise a mudroom closet.
6. Set Up a Mudroom Closet System for Ample Storage
Once the closet walls and door frame have been painted, it’s time to set up a new and enhanced closet system. The standard wire shelves in our entryway closet always frustrated me, and I couldn’t wait to eliminate them!
For our DIY mudroom closet, I selected the IKEA BOAXEL system. It resembles the well-known (and expensive) Elfa customizable storage system from The Container Store quite closely.
While I receive positive feedback regarding the Elfa system, it exceeded my budget for our entryway closet. The IKEA BOAXEL system provides many similar customization choices, at a much lower cost.
IKEA BOAXEL System for a DIY Mudroom Closet
I intend to compose a comprehensive review of the IKEA BOAXEL system, but here’s a brief overview!
Initially, you can opt for a pre-designed BOAXEL storage combination, or create your own layout using the BOAXEL planner online. Make sure to verify your closet dimensions!
Similar to the Elfa system, the BOAXEL framework is built with vertical supports (termed “uprights”) and modular parts that attach on. Where I couldn’t locate a stud, I employed these robust 1/8″ x 2″ toggle bolts to provide the uprights with additional support.
For the center section of the closet, I selected mesh basket drawers for winter clothing, summer necessities, and our everyday items. For the right section, I chose metal shelves designated for shoe storage.
Ultimately, the upper shelves provide an ideal spot for larger items and off-season apparel.
Related: I recently utilized the IKEA PAX system in our bedroom, and we are extremely satisfied with it! The PAX system would be ideal for a standalone mudroom closet if you aren’t working with an actual closet space.
7. Incorporate Coat Hooks for Jackets and Backpacks
In the end, I completed our DIY mudroom closet with coat hooks for our jackets and bags. The open area on the left side of the closet was just ample enough for two of these hook rails from Target.
I mounted the hook rails on the rear wall of the closet using the provided drywall anchors and screws, and thus far they are holding up effectively! If they do become loose, I intend to reinstall them with toggle bolts.
Here are additional coat hooks for a mudroom closet:
Can you imagine the significant transformation the revamped closet system brought? Our entryway closet now resembles a compact mudroom where we can organize all our necessities and exit smoothly. It may seem trivial, but this home improvement has been transformative for our family!
Additional DIY Mudroom Closet Makeover Concepts
This section presents more concepts for a DIY mudroom closet makeover. I couldn’t incorporate these into our area, but I would love to see how you implement them!
1. Mudroom Closet Bench Seat
If space permits, one of the most sought-after features to add to a mini mudroom is a bench seat. Think about utilizing a storage bench equipped with baskets, or a built-in bench featuring coat hooks or cubbies above! Even a compact closet can fit a round ottoman or stool.
I initially intended to add a mudroom bench in our setup, but the space on the left side of the closet was simply a tad too compact. Thus, I placed a small bench in our adjacent laundry room in case someone wishes to sit while putting on their shoes.
(This is the affordable wooden stool I bought from IKEA. The center of the bench features a cut-out handle for easy portability.)
Here are some more options for mudroom closet benches and stools:
If you’re skilled and wish to build your own built-in bench, the average bench height is around 18 inches. You could even add a cushion on the top for a comfy appearance.
2. Peel and Stick Wallpaper
Next, a mudroom closet is an ideal spot to utilize peel and stick wallpaper! I enjoy employing wallpaper to add charm to a small area or to craft an accent wall.
In our situation, the wallpaper wouldn’t be especially noticeable behind the closet system I selected. However, if you’re using shelves or cubbies, wallpaper is a fantastic option.
Here are some stunning peel and stick wallpaper options:
Related: Check out the wallpaper I utilized for this Entryway Accent Wall and Cozy Girls Bedroom.
3. Board and Batten Appearance
Lastly, you can utilize pine boards or wide MDF strips to create a board and batten appearance in your mini mudroom!
This is a more advanced home project that requires a saw and a brad nailer. However, if you’re up for it, wall molding is a wonderful method to add character to any compact area.
Related: Check out my Easy DIY Picture Frame Molding (Box Trim) and Board and Batten Accent Wall.
Additional Simple DIY Projects
If you’re seeking more simple DIY home projects to refresh your space, explore these!
In summary, I hope this mudroom makeover motivated you. If you take on this home project, or if you have inquiries, please leave a comment below!
