Back to school is fast approaching, and as the stresses of the morning rushes begin, the school day's clutter arises. This year, you can make the transition from summer to school easier with some organizational furniture options to keep all those backpacks, jackets and school supplies from cluttering up your home. Creating designated drop areas with entryway furniture and having plenty of storage spaces can minimize mess and morning hassle on school (and work) days. Storage benches and hall trees offer a little extra needed space to make those quick trips home before after-school activities orderly and efficient.

Storage Benches

The perfect balance between fashion and function, storage benches are a great way to hide unnecessary items like winter jackets, hats and boots while providing extra seating in your entryway. An entryway storage bench should be robust enough to stand up to the daily wear and tear of your family coming and going, especially once the school year starts. However, the design should allow you to have easy access to the stored items without the need to struggle in the mornings. Storage bench options are nearly endless, from upholstered to wooden and everything in between; this highly versatile piece makes the most out of your space.

Hall Trees

A hall tree with bench is the ideal option to keep every morning running smoothly without sacrificing space in your entryway. A combo for the ages, the hall tree mashes together the out-of-site storage of a storage bench with the easy-to-access storage of a coat rack. This clean-lined option offers an effortless appeal that brings a balance of style and order to any entryway, with features such as hooks across the top and a multifunctional bench seat. A hall tree may also offer small cubbies for extra organization options along with cushions for added seating comfort.

Shelves

Although hall trees and storage benches are great space savers, there's plenty of other options that can take advantage of vertical space for storage. Strategically placed shelves meet most people's storage needs, whether on the wall or a traditional bookcase. With storage shelves, your options go beyond simple storage with beautiful decoration potential you can take advantage of by adding artwork, photo frames, statuettes and any other decorative items your heart desires to make your space feel more personal.

Accent Tables

Accent tables, like telephone tables and foyer tables, let you keep small items like keys and wallets in one handy location. Available in numerous designs and sizes, you're sure to find the ideal accent table to tie your home decor together. Unlike larger bookcases, hall trees or storage benches, accent tables are just that, accents. It’s easy to find one that follows suit with your home décor theme, or you can incorporate a piece that brings in a new look to your space. For extra organization, try adding a decorative tray on the top of your accent table for all your essential to-go items, like your wallet and keys. This eliminates the morning rush to find lost items.

With the right combination of a storage bench, hall tree with bench, shelves (without bench), and/or accent tables, you'll keep your mornings organized and clutter-free all school year long—and add style to you’re the foyer or entryway of your home.