Winter in Michigan is beautiful, but it brings a unique set of challenges for any household’s mudroom. From soggy boots to piles of coats, keeping this space tidy and functional requires intentional planning—especially with the region’s snow, slush, and freezing temperatures.
At Custom Built, we understand how a well-designed mudroom can transform winter routines and protect your home from the seasonal mess.
With 15+ years of remodeling experience in Michigan, we know how to tailor mudrooms to handle the extremes—whether it’s choosing slip-resistant flooring, creating storage solutions for bulky winter gear, or adding waterproof features to protect against salt and moisture. Our goal is to help you design a mudroom that stands up to winter, keeping your space organized, practical, and welcoming.
If you’re ready to rethink your mudroom for maximum efficiency and durability this winter, read on for ideas to help you make the most of this hardworking entryway.
- Choose Durable, Waterproof Flooring
- Install Radiant Floor Heating
- Incorporate Custom Cabinetry and Cubbies
- Use Wall-Mounted Hooks and Racks
- Install a Storage Bench with Hidden Compartments
- Include Drip Trays, Boot Trays, and Washable Runners
- Utilize Overhead Shelving
1. Choose Durable, Waterproof Flooring
Flooring in a mudroom often takes a beating, particularly in winter. You’ll want to invest in a material that handles moisture well but also won’t suffer from Michigan’s fluctuating temperatures.
For many homeowners, Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) or Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) is an ideal choice. Both LVT and LVP are waterproof and less prone to cracking from temperature changes, making them a good choice for unheated mudrooms. Unlike tile, which can feel cold to the touch, LVT and LVP add warmth to the space without the hassle of cracking from freeze-thaw cycles.
Tile is a great waterproof and durable material but is often cold to touch. We have found tile is best installed in a well-insulated area or with radiant floor heating. If you do go with tile, opt for a low-sheen or matte finish tile, which has more texture for slip resistance and prevents slippery surfaces during snow boot season. Mosaics with extra grout lines offer extra grip but can be harder to keep clean.
2. Install Radiant Floor Heating
For a truly cozy upgrade, consider radiant floor heating under your mudroom flooring. Radiant heating is a luxury that also provides a practical benefit, especially in colder Michigan climates.
It can make a big difference in spaces that don’t have dedicated heating. Whether you’re installing in a new build or retrofitting an existing space, radiant heat can be added to almost any type of flooring. Specifically, this feature is best for ceramic, tile, stone, and engineered wood.
Keep in mind, however, that installation costs will vary based on your mudroom’s location, electrical requirements, and the existing floor structure.
3. Incorporate Custom Cabinetry and Cubbies
Michigan winters mean snow gear for every family member, and the best storage solutions are tailored to fit your needs. Custom cabinetry or cubbies give you a way to organize everything without adding clutter to the room.
Consider who will use the space and what you need to store: Do you need quick access to jackets and scarves? Is the goal to keep everything neatly tucked away?
Families with young children, for example, often benefit from cubbies that allow for independent access to backpacks and shoes. Closed cabinets are perfect if you prefer a clean, minimalist look.
4. Use Wall-Mounted Hooks and Racks
In a winter-ready mudroom, wall-mounted hooks are essential for hanging heavy coats, hats, and other winter essentials. But with Michigan winters, it’s best to ensure that hooks are securely mounted.
The weight of multiple layers can strain drywall over time, so it’s critical to find a stud or reinforce the wall before installation. Proper mounting provides peace of mind that your hooks won’t give way under the load of snow gear.
5. Install a Storage Bench with Hidden Compartments
A storage bench does double duty, providing a place to sit while putting on shoes and ample room for storing winter essentials.
Built-in benches with dividers can provide long-lasting storage but may be pricier and limit your layout options. Freestanding benches offer flexibility to rearrange your mudroom if needed.
Either way, a bench with hidden compartments keeps clutter under control and out of sight, making it easier to organize boots, mittens, and hats.
6. Include Drip Trays, Boot Trays, and Washable Runners
Waterproof flooring can help handle winter’s snow and slush, but it’s still best to keep moisture in check to protect your floors. Drip trays and boot trays are simple yet effective solutions that prevent standing water and salt from causing damage to your home’s entryways.
Placing a tray by the door provides a dedicated space for snowy boots to dry off, keeping any salt-laden runoff contained. These trays are easy to remove and rinse as needed, ensuring that your flooring stays in top condition throughout the season.
Additionally, incorporating runners in high-traffic areas can add an extra layer of protection and warmth. Runners are perfect for absorbing moisture and reducing the risk of slips while also enhancing the coziness of your space.
For easy maintenance, we recommend Ruggable runners. Their unique two-piece system allows you to simply detach the top layer and throw it in the washing machine whenever it gets dirty. This makes it effortless to keep your home clean and stylish, even during the messy winter months.
7. Utilize Overhead Shelving
If you need more storage but prefer an open, accessible feel, overhead shelving can provide valuable extra space without the cost of additional cabinetry. This is a good option for items you don’t mind displaying and helps keep essentials within reach while freeing up floor space. Shelves can hold bins for items like seasonal accessories or extra household supplies, keeping your mudroom organized year-round.
How to Decide Which Upgrades to Prioritize in Your Mudroom
Choosing the right upgrades for your mudroom depends on how you use the space daily and what you want to achieve. To make the most out of winterizing your mudroom, start by considering these key factors:
1. Family Needs and Lifestyle
Think about who’s using the mudroom and what they need easy access to in winter. A family with young children may need kid-friendly cubbies and hooks at lower heights, while a household with pets might benefit from easily accessible storage for leashes, towels, or pet-safe boot mats.
2. Storage Preferences
Decide on the balance between open and closed storage. Do you want items hidden for a clean look, or do you need quick access to jackets and gear? Custom cabinetry with closed doors hides clutter but might not work for families who prefer open cubbies for grab-and-go convenience.
3. Durability vs. Comfort
Michigan winters can be harsh, so durable, waterproof flooring like LVT is often a priority. However, if you want to add warmth to the space, radiant floor heating can make it more inviting. Assess if the flooring will face heavy boot traffic or primarily serve as a coat storage area, and choose materials accordingly.
4. Budget Considerations
Knowing your budget upfront can help you prioritize. Drip trays, wall hooks, and overhead shelves are cost-effective additions that add functionality without a large investment. On the other hand, custom cabinetry and radiant heating offer significant long-term value but come with higher initial costs.
Each of these upgrades has the potential to make your mudroom more functional and welcoming. Start with the elements that solve your current needs, and you’ll create a mudroom that truly works for your home throughout Michigan’s long winter season.
Next Steps to Building or Remodeling Your Michigan Mudroom
If you’re ready to make your mudroom a functional, winter-ready space, focusing on the right storage and flooring choices can make all the difference in how you and your family tackle Michigan’s snowy months. Without durable, water-resistant materials and organized storage solutions, your mudroom could easily become a cluttered, messy, and even hazardous area during winter.
By exploring durable flooring options, adding storage tailored to your needs, and implementing features like drip trays and insulation, you can create a mudroom that simplifies your daily routine and keeps your home organized through every season. In this article, you’ve learned about the top upgrades to keep your mudroom warm, efficient, and built to handle winter’s demands.
At Custom Built Design & Remodeling, we’ve helped families throughout Michigan create functional spaces that stand up to the elements. With our experience and focus on practical design, we ensure that every mudroom reflects our clients' needs and the realities of a Michigan winter.
Ready to upgrade your mudroom? Contact our team today to make your mudroom winter-ready and welcoming.
Now that you know more about how to update your mudroom for Michigan winters, let’s take a look at how to prepare your outdoor living space for fall and winter and when you should remodel your Michigan home:
- Top 10 Ways to Prepare Your Outdoor Living Space for Fall in Michigan - Explore the best ways to organize and bolster your outdoor living space for the fall season.
- 10 Ways to Prepare Your Deck for a Michigan Winter - From using the right equipment to cleaning tips, this article will help you prepare your deck for a harsh Michigan winter.
- When's the Best Time of Year to Remodel Your Michigan Home? - Our state’s weather can fluctuate throughout the year; learn more about the best time of year to pursue specific remodeling projects.
Topics:
