I created a 'drop zone' to declutter my entryway – now leaving my house is quick and simple

Though my entryway is small in size, its impact on my home is unrivaled. That's why, before decluttering, I found that simple things – such as finding my umbrella or house keys – felt like a chore. And I was almost always, inevitably, late to where I needed to be. After one chaotic morning too many, I decided it was time to restore order and change how I leave (and re-enter) my home for good.

I had heard that organizing an entryway is one of the most impactful things you can do to make mornings feel more seamless, but as I am working with such a compact space, I was keen to discover small entryway ideas that would make an immediate impact without a significant time (or financial) investment. That was when I decided to create a 'drop zone.'

How I use a 'drop zone' to bring order to my entryway

While some entryway storage ideas are made for larger, family-friendly spaces, I was looking for something that could work in virtually any sized space to deal with common items that make an entryway look cluttered – and that was when I remembered where I had seen a drop zone used before.

I had once noticed my friend, who also lives in a small apartment, reach into a wicker basket to collect her shopping bag, keys, and umbrella when we were leaving her home – and I remember thinking how easy her exit seemed (especially in comparison to mine, that was noticeably more chaotic that very day). I called her up, and she told me it was a 'drop zone' – a habit she had replicated from her old family home. This time, though, it was my turn to mimic her simple entryway idea.

I began by investing in this woven basket on Amazon, which perfectly complemented my entryway's style. The container is the perfect size for my everyday work purse, my compact umbrella, and my keys – that I keep at the top of the basket.

Now, when I return home, I automatically place my items in the basket (unless I leave my umbrella to dry, but then I place it back in the container once I am able). It ensures I know exactly where my essentials are the next morning when I'm rushing out of the door. My mornings are undeniably calmer (not least because I have also used the 5-second rule to get out of bed every day), but its benefits don't end there. It is a golden rule for a clutter-free entryway.

Since introducing a drop zone to my entryway, I have also noticed that my space looks tidier, and guests are no longer tripping over my work bag (nor are they waiting at my door while I search high and low for my keys). The space appears less chaotic and more curated as the wicker hues match my entryway color ideas and encourage me to keep the rest of my room tidy (including my shoes, which, I admit, I tended to avoid before).

So, if you're looking to make an entryway inviting while making your morning routine easier, this drop zone trick is for you.