The staff at plumbing wholesale company Keidel in Cincinnati offers these tips for designing and installing mudrooms. For more information, visit
www.keidel.com.
Provide clear traffic routes in and out of the mudroom. Exterior doors should be 36 inches wide.
Include a chair or bench for removing shoes and boots.
A doormat is essential, and the bigger the better. Whenever possible, recess the mat into the floor. A recessed mat is safer and tidier than floor mats. This is easier if the floor is tiled, but it can even be done on an existing board floor.
Provide a mail center with a bulletin board to help the family keep track of their schedules. Consider either a countertop to organize and sort mail or wall-hung letter bins.
A bathroom with a shower located next to the mudroom is not only practical, but recommended.
A laundry room adjacent to or that is part of the mudroom is a viable option. The utility sink can be used for laundry or to clean up dirt and grime. For small spaces (less than 4 by 9 feet) choose a small wall-hung sink.
If the mudroom is off the kitchen, using the same cabinetry and counters will make the mudroom appear to be part of the kitchen and will make both spaces feel larger.
Consider installing a mirror, and a series of hooks to hold spare keys.
