About Mudrooms

Many homes have small rooms or entrance areas where people wipe their shoes, hang their coats and store their winter gear. Mudrooms are one example of this type of space. They help alleviate the outside debris that gets tracked into the house by those living in the home and visitors. In some homes, mudrooms also double as a laundry room.

Function

The main function of a mudroom is to keep the house clean and alleviate clutter. The room serves as a barrier between the outside and the main part of the house. People can enter the mudroom and remove any wet or muddy clothes and shoes. This prevents them from tracking dirt and other waste into the house.

Features

Since mudrooms are created as a place to store wet and dirty clothing, they usually have easy clean flooring. For instance, linoleum or tile might be laid as the floor so that mud can be easily wiped up. They also generally have a coat closet or hooks for hanging jackets, scarves and other clothing. Some people install drains and even sinks in their mudrooms for effortless cleaning. Households with pets can benefit from a sink in the mudroom, because their paws and fur can be quickly wiped off prior to letting them enter the house.

Geography

Mudrooms are generally built in homes located in areas that have severe weather. They are especially useful in winter climates where mud and snow can be problematic. They are also practical in homes situated on lakes or rivers because sand and water is more easily brought inside on shoes.

Size

Mudrooms may be large or small in size depending on their use. In homes with moderate weather, where dirt is not often tracked inside, a small mudroom is adequate. It may simply offer an area for hanging coats and storing shoes. Certain areas may require much larger mudrooms. Farmhouses where people work in fields and with animals can benefit greatly from having a sizeable entry space. This area should have storage area for dirty clothing, boots and even tools. Some people build cubbyholes for increased capacity for everything from book bags to sneakers.

Potential

Although many mudrooms have simple designs, built for simplicity rather than fashion, they can be decorated to be both appealing and functional. According to Rocky Mountain News, mudrooms are an ideal location to "indulge in bold colors and gutsy design," (Rayworth, 2008). Because mudrooms are often located at the house entrance, they serve as the first impression that visitors receive when entering the home. Therefore, creating a mudroom that reflects personal style may be worthwhile.