What Should You Put In A Small Entryway? [7 Crucial Items]

When you move into a new home or apartment, bedroom and bathroom arrangements usually take priority over the entryway.

A small entryway can be challenging to organize, but we’ve researched the best ideas to make your life easier and are excited to share them with you!

Small entryways need to have furniture and tools that fit their sizing so that downsizing typical entryway items can help. The best items to keep in a small entryway include:

• A Mat
• A Small Table
• A Door Hanger Set
• Key Hooks
• A Small Stool/Bench
• A Small Shoe Rack
• An Air Freshener

Choosing the right items for your entryway will help keep your home cleaner and reduce the amount of work you have to do while maintaining it.

Not sure where to get the best items for your entryway or what you should insist upon having? This guide is here to help make shopping a breeze.

What Should You Add To A Small Entryway?

If you have a small entryway, you might feel limited by the space you have to remove your items.

The good news is that you can get some use out of your area. It’s all about knowing how to make the most of your space. The items below can help you maximize your small space.

A Floor Mat

The first thing you need to get is a mat. It’s the number one tool you’ll need to keep your entryway clean, reduce the amount of mud that ends up on your flooring, and keep it looking sharp.

It will also protect laminate and wood flooring. A good mat will be stylish, easy to clean, and absorbent.

If possible, try to find a mat that works with your home’s decor and has fibers designed to clean your shoes. Stain-resistant mats are your best bet!

A Small Table

If you can fit a small table in your entryway, do it. This serves double duty: It adds a decorative splash to your entryway and gives you a safe place to store keys and knickknacks.

A small end table usually works best here since it’s petite enough to fit into smaller areas.

Door Hangers

When you’re working with a small entryway, you have to start thinking of using higher-up areas on your walls rather than spaced out.

Door hangers create additional space by providing an area behind your front door to hang items like hats, coats, or bags, making them easily accessible before you leave the house.

Key Hooks

Another way to utilize vertical space is by installing key hooks near your door. This ensures your keys are always in sight and prevents them from getting lost. Key hooks can match your style and utility needs.

For those who like to stay organized, consider a key hook that doubles as a mail sorter. There are many options available online, perfect for smaller entryways. Opt for an easy-to-mount model, like the one shown below.

A Small Stool/Bench

When you use your entryway correctly, you’ll want to take off your shoes there. This can be a hassle without a stool or bench.

Depending on your space, aim for a bench. If your entryway is too small, opt for a small stool to make removing your shoes easier and avoid falling over.

A Small Shoe Rack

Another must-have for people who have the room is a shoe rack, ideally with a flat platform to give your shoes a place to dry without getting your floor wet.

Unfortunately, some entryways are extremely small and unable to give enough space for a standard rack. If this is the case, you may need to place it outside of your entryway, away from the mat.

When picking a shoe rack, you want to find one with space for at least three pairs of shoes per person. This guarantees you’ll have enough space for your regular daily wear. 

An Air Freshener

Did you ever notice how bad shoes and coats smell after you take them off during a hot or exceedingly rainy day? If so, you’re not alone. Foul odors can easily foul up your day, even if you think they’re relegated to the entryway.

Even if your entryway is small, it’s just a good idea to have something that can cover up or neutralize odors. 

You could use a Febreze bottle or a disposable air freshener, but a fragrance lamp might be a better option.

These lamps burn fragrant alcohol-oil, killing odor-causing bacteria and making your home smell great. Plus, they look like stylish bottles, making them a perfect centerpiece for an entryway table in a small room.

If you prefer traditional odor reduction methods, a scented candle with a complementary color is a great choice.

For example, this pumpkin spice candle from Yankee Candle is strong enough to enhance the scent of any entryway.

Lightly colored walls have a room-expanding appeal that will help prevent your entryway from feeling cramped, cluttered, and tight.

This is why most smaller entryways are painted white, cream, or light grey. If you have to choose one color for your room, go with white. It works with every style.

How Do You Make A Small Entryway Look Bigger?

When it comes to giving the illusion of a larger entryway, you can use a couple of tricks. 

Less is more when it comes to “stuff.”

In a large entryway, you might have the luxury of adding a potted plant nearby or getting a nice large shelf for all your knickknacks.

This isn’t the case with small entryways. Clutter is very noticeable in small areas, so keep excess items to a minimum.

Try to keep a unified theme. 

Even though it’s your entryway, there’s still going to be a need to keep your decoration theme unified. People will notice if you have an entryway that’s got decorations from all different walks of life.

Having a streamlined look will make your entryway classy and even a little more spacious in appearance.

Keep it clean.

Remember that your number one goal is cleanliness. Small entryways are notorious for being a pain to clean. That’s why you need to think about what items will be easy to wipe down, vacuum, or straighten up.

Use Windows

Having wide open and minimally covered windows will help you max out your entryway’s look and feel. 

Perfecting Your Small Entryway

Organizing a small entryway can be challenging, but with a bit of creativity, you can make the most of your space.

By choosing the right items and keeping your space tidy, you’ll transform your small entryway into a welcoming and practical area!