A well-designed mudroom bench with storage can totally change your entryway. Instead of a cluttered mess, you get an organized space that actually adds value to your home.
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To install a mudroom bench, you’ll build a sturdy frame, add storage cubbies or drawers, and secure the unit for functional seating and storage. This project brings together practical storage and a comfy spot to sit while pulling off muddy boots or wet coats.
When you build your own bench with storage, you get to pick the size, style, and storage options that really work for your space. Make simple open cubbies for shoes and bags, add drawers for the small stuff, or mix and match to fit your family’s needs.
You’ll need some basic woodworking skills and common tools. Most homeowners already have what’s needed.
Your mudroom bench will anchor your entryway system. With a little planning, you can create a custom storage bench that fits perfectly and handles everything from sports gear to winter coats.
Planning Your Mudroom Bench Project
Choosing the right style is where your mudroom bench project really starts. Good measurements and storage planning make sure your bench works well and fits just right.
Choosing the Right Mudroom Bench Style
Pick a mudroom bench style that fits your home’s design and your family’s routine. A custom mudroom bench gives you the most flexibility, especially for odd spaces.
Built-in benches work great in dedicated mudrooms with enough wall space. Add upper cabinets or coat hooks for more storage.
Freestanding benches give you flexibility. You can move them if needed, and they’re perfect for small mudrooms or tight entryways.
If you want quick access to shoes or boots, go for an open bottom mudroom bench. The open design makes it easy to slide footwear in and out.
Corner wraparound benches help you make the most of L-shaped areas. If you’ve got a corner but not much straight wall, these are a smart pick.
In a formal entryway, maybe a dining bench style with clean lines and minimal storage is better than a bulky mudroom locker.
Selecting Storage Options and Features
Let your storage needs guide your bench design. Think about what your family drops in the mudroom every day.
Cubbies are great for giving everyone their own spot for bags, shoes, and little odds and ends.
Drawers hide clutter better than open shelves. They’re handy for gloves, hats, and stuff you don’t need every day.
Open shelves let you grab things fast. They’re best for shoes or bags you use all the time.
Put hooks above the bench for coats and backpacks. Install them at different heights for adults and kids.
A flip-top bench hides bigger items like sports gear or cleaning supplies. It’s a smart way to stash things out of sight.
Basket storage in open cubbies keeps small things organized but still easy to reach.
Measuring and Planning Your Space
Accurate measurements save you from headaches and extra trips to the hardware store. Start by measuring your available wall space.
Standard bench height is usually 16 to 20 inches. Go with 16-18 inches for kids, or 18-20 inches for adults.
Bench depth should be 12-16 inches for comfortable seating. Deeper benches give you more storage but take up more floor space.
Width depends on your space and how many people will use it. Plan for 18-24 inches per person if you want to seat several at once.
If you’re adding upper cabinets or hooks, measure ceiling height too. Leave at least 12 inches between the bench top and anything above.
Check for electrical outlets, switches, or vents where you want your bench. You might have to work around these.
Think about door swings and how people move through the space. Your bench shouldn’t block doors or make walkways too tight.
Mark out your measurements with tape on the floor and walls before building. It helps you see the final size and make adjustments.
Gathering Tools and Materials
The right tools and quality materials make a huge difference. Good prep and safety gear protect you and your project.
Required Tools and Equipment
Your tools will affect how easy and accurate your build is. A table saw gives you the cleanest cuts for big MDF sheets and keeps measurements consistent.
If you don’t have a table saw, a circular saw with a guide works for most cuts. You’ll also need a drill with various bits, including a countersink bit for neat screw holes.
A pocket hole jig helps you make strong, hidden joints. Pair it with pocket hole screws to connect pieces securely without visible fasteners.
Don’t forget essential hand tools:
- Random orbit sander with 180- and 220-grit sandpaper
- Router with a 3/4-inch straight bit for dadoes
- Bar clamps for assembly
- Brad nailer for trim
- Rubber mallet and chisel for tweaks
- Level and measuring tape
Selecting Quality Materials
Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) is a good value if you plan to paint your bench. One 4×8 sheet usually covers most bench designs and cuts cleanly.
Wood screws and pocket hole screws both have their place. Use 1¼-inch wood screws for general assembly, and 1¼-inch pocket hole screws for hidden joints that need extra strength.
Wood glue creates super strong bonds. Pick a quality PVA glue that sets in about 30 minutes but still gives you time to adjust things.
Here’s a basic materials list:
- 4×8 sheet of ¾-inch MDF
- 1¼-inch deck screws
- 1¼-inch pocket hole screws
- Wood glue
- Primer and semi-gloss paint
- Brad nails for trim
Safety Tips Before Starting
Power tools deserve respect. Always wear safety glasses when cutting, drilling, or sanding.
MDF makes fine dust that’s rough on your lungs and eyes. Wear a dust mask rated for fine particles and keep your workspace well-ventilated.
Keep your workspace tidy and bright. Clutter leads to accidents and wasted materials.
Check that all your power tools work properly before you start. Dull blades make rough cuts and increase the risk of injury.
Building the Bench Base and Frame
The base gives your bench stability, while the frame supports the bench top and storage areas. These parts work together to create a sturdy foundation that stands up to daily use.
Constructing the Bench Base
Cut your base pieces based on your bench plans. You’ll need a front base piece and two side pieces.
Cut precise miters on both ends of the front base piece. Cut miters on one end of each side piece. This makes clean, pro-looking joints.
Apply wood glue to the mitered joints. Clamp everything together and drive wood screws from the inside.
Add your center support piece between the side bases. This keeps the bench from sagging and adds strength. Secure it with wood screws through pilot holes.
If your design calls for front filler pieces, install those now. They help spread out weight and give you spots to attach the main structure.
Sand all base components with 180-grit sandpaper. This smooths out rough edges and gets the surface ready for finishing.
Assembling the Frame
Mark your cut lines on plywood or lumber using your mudroom bench plans. Use a table saw or circular saw for straight, accurate cuts.
Use a router to create dadoes for divider placement. These grooves hold your vertical dividers in place. Cut them about 5/16 inches deep.
Pre-drill holes with a countersink bit. This keeps the wood from splitting when you screw things together.
Apply wood glue to the dadoes before sliding in dividers. Secure everything with pocket hole screws or regular wood screws.
A pocket hole jig lets you make strong joints and hide screw heads. Drill pocket holes in the ends of your dividers before assembling.
Attach your bench top piece last. Use wood glue and screws through pre-drilled holes to secure it.
Adding Storage Components
Storage components turn your basic bench into a true mudroom system. Installing cubbies and fitting doors right will maximize your storage and give you a clean look.
Installing Cubbies and Compartments
Place your vertical dividers inside the bench frame to create individual storage compartments. Mark where each divider will attach to the bench top and bottom shelf.
Put wood glue on the edges of each divider before securing with 2-inch wood screws. Drive screws through the bench top and bottom shelf into the dividers for the strongest hold.
Standard cubby measurements:
- Width: 12-14 inches per compartment
- Height: 10-12 inches for shoes
- Depth: Match your bench depth (usually 14-16 inches)
Install horizontal shelves in tall compartments for double storage. Cut shelves to fit snugly and secure with brackets or cleats.
Add removable baskets or bins to keep small items organized. Pick containers that slide easily and leave a half-inch of clearance on each side.
Fitting Drawer Fronts and Cabinet Doors
Install cabinet doors on the lower section for hidden storage. Mount hinges 2-3 inches from the top and bottom of each door opening.
Use soft-close hinges to prevent slamming and help your doors last longer. Mark hinge spots with a pencil before drilling pilot holes.
Attach drawer fronts to pull-out storage boxes with screws from the inside. Make sure the drawer front sits flush with the cabinet doors when closed.
Hardware spacing:
- Single knob: Center it on the door or drawer
- Two knobs: 3-4 inches from each edge
- Pull handles: Center horizontally and vertically
Test every door and drawer before final install. Adjust hinges and slides so everything lines up and moves smoothly.
Finishing Touches and Installation
These last steps turn your mudroom bench into a real storage solution. Good attachment methods and smart accessory placement make your bench look professional and hold up to daily life.
Attaching the Bench Top Securely
Set your bench top on the assembled frame, making sure it overhangs evenly on all sides. Mark screw locations from underneath to avoid visible fasteners on top.
Run a thin line of wood glue along the top edge of your frame before placing the bench top. This strengthens the bond.
Pre-drill pilot holes to keep the wood from splitting. Use screws long enough to go at least 1 inch into the bench top without poking through.
Drive screws from underneath into the bench top every 6 inches along all supporting edges. Wipe away any extra glue right away with a damp cloth.
Check the connection by pressing gently on different areas. The bench top should feel solid everywhere.
Mounting Coat Hooks and Accessories
Mark hook spots 12 to 16 inches apart on the wall above your bench. Use a level to keep everything in line.
Find wall studs with a stud finder for the strongest hold. If studs don’t match your preferred spacing, use heavy-duty wall anchors rated for at least 50 pounds.
Install hooks at 48 to 60 inches from the floor for adults, or 36 to 42 inches for kids. Different heights make it easier for everyone.
Think about adding a shelf above the hooks at 72 inches for seasonal items or baskets. Mount shelf brackets into studs with wood screws for best support.
Test each hook with a heavy coat or bag before calling it done. Properly installed hooks shouldn’t move or loosen.
Final Assembly and Wall Attachment
Move your finished mudroom bench into place against the wall. Check that it’s level with a bubble level on top.
Secure the bench to wall studs with 3-inch wood screws through the back frame. This keeps it from tipping and makes it safe for heavy loads.
Put any remaining baskets or bins in their cubbies. Make sure all moving parts work smoothly.
Stick felt pads to the bottom of the bench legs to protect your floor and cut down on noise if the bench shifts.
Do a final check of all connections, making sure screws are tight and no sharp edges are left where hands might touch.
Design Variations and Customization Ideas
You can create a custom mudroom bench in all sorts of ways. Some people use IKEA cabinets as a base, while others pick between open or closed storage, depending on what fits their space and what they actually need to stash away.
The right design really depends on your space constraints and storage needs. Sometimes, it just comes down to what feels right for your home.
Using Store-Bought or IKEA Cabinets
IKEA cabinets make a great starting point for mudroom benches. The HEMNES series, for example, has a 35-inch height that just feels right for sitting.
You can line up two or three cabinets to get the length you want. Just pop a wood top on and secure it with brackets—easy enough.
Popular IKEA cabinet options:
- HEMNES shoe cabinets for those tight spaces
- IVAR shelving units if you want shelves you can actually adjust
- BESTA units for a modern look
This method saves you a ton of time. You avoid complicated woodworking but still get professional-quality storage that looks sharp.
You also get adjustable shelves with these cabinets. That means you can tweak the inside for boots, shoes, or whatever else ends up in your mudroom.
Open Bottom vs. Closed Storage
An open bottom mudroom bench gives your entryway a more relaxed vibe. You can see your shoes and boots right under the seat, which is honestly pretty handy.
This style works best if your family usually kicks off shoes at the door. The open space lets wet boots dry out—no more soggy surprises.
Open bottom benefits:
- Grabbing your go-to shoes gets a lot easier
- Air flows better, so stuff dries out faster
- The bench looks lighter and less bulky
- Construction stays pretty simple
Closed storage hides the mess behind doors or inside cubbies. If you want your entryway to look neat and put-together, this is the way to go.
Closed designs also keep dust and pet hair away from your stuff. You can stash seasonal items or anything you don’t want out in the open.
If your mudroom is on the smaller side, closed storage helps keep things from looking too cluttered.
Recommended Bench Plans for Small Spaces
If you’ve got a small mudroom, you’ll want smart bench plans that squeeze the most out of every inch. A corner bench makes use of those awkward angles you might otherwise ignore.
Space-saving features to include:
- Vertical storage with hooks right above the bench
- Flip-up seat for hidden storage compartments
- Narrow depth of 12-14 inches, which is slimmer than the usual 18 inches
- Wall-mounted design that frees up floor space
Try attaching a floating bench directly to the wall studs. You’ll get storage underneath and the room feels a bit more open.
Multi-level designs can really help in tiny spots. You might add a second tier above the main bench for tossing bags or stashing accessories.
If you’re planning a built-in bench for a small mudroom, swap out deep cubbies for pull-out drawers. Drawers just make it so much easier to reach your stuff when space is tight.