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There is a lot about winter that is fun, even after the holidays are over. You can play in the snow with your kids or go skiing or snowboarding. There is something about the crisp, cold winter air that can be downright invigorating.

But one thing which is not invigorating is having to clean up the mudroom. They may call it a “mudroom” for a reason, but that doesn’t mean you actually want mud and sludge tracked in everywhere. It looks awful, it is slippery and poses a tripping hazard, and it can also lead to moisture problems which cause mold and mildew to form. None of that is good.

That is why you need to put special effort into coming up with smart storage solutions for organizing winter gear. The right mudroom storage ideas will not only keep all your supplies out of the way and sorted, but will prevent the mudroom from turning into a mess. Here are some mudroom organization tips to help you out:

• Do not use closed storage for wet winter gear. In other words, no closed plastic bins or closet doors. If you use a closet in your mudroom, leave the doors open (or use a closet or shelves without doors). Mudroom storage bins are a very good idea, but you should either use bins without lids or leave the lids off. This will keep the air circulating through and will allow your gear and attire to dry off. This in turn will prevent mold and mildew.

• Use plastic containers to group similar items. Plastic bins for your mudroom can help you to find items you need quickly and easily. If you have more than one pair of winter gloves, store them all in one bin. Keep all your hats in another, and all your scarves in a third. This will help you get out the door fast with what you need.

• Label your storage neatly. The other trick to finding the winter gear you need in a hurry is to label your containers. Actually write “mittens and gloves” or “hats” or “scarves” on your bins. That way you can reach into the right bin straight away, even if it is on a high shelf. Using plastic is smart for bins on high shelves too, because if you accidentally tip a bin out and it falls on you, it won’t hurt like a heavy wood bin.

• Use shoe organizers. Another very handy way to store small items like gloves and mittens is with a shoe organizer—the type which you hang on a door. This is a wonderful way to free up shelf space, and it makes it extremely fast and easy to find and grab what you need. You can even store fold-up umbrellas in the pockets. They provide plenty of room!

Those are just a few ideas which will help you to organize your winter gear in your mudroom so that you don’t make a mess. Be sure to check out Part 2 for even more helpful tips and tricks!