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September 30.2025
3 Minutes Read

Transform Your Entryway: A DIY Guide to Custom Mudroom Built-ins

Modern mudroom with custom built-ins and seating area.

Bringing Your Mudroom Dreams to Life

Have you ever imagined the perfect first step into your home? For many homeowners, that vision becomes a reality during mudroom renovations, much like my recent experience. After loads of planning and anticipation, the day finally arrived when our custom-built mudroom cabinets were installed, and let me tell you, it was a game changer! Gone are the days of bags and shoes scattered around the living room; our new mudroom is all about neatness and organization.

What Installation Day Looked Like

Installation day felt like an episode of a fun renovation show! Our carpenter and his team rolled up with a truck overflowing with hand-crafted cabinets, drawers, and panels that were about to transform our entryway. With expert hands, they carefully secured each piece, ensuring everything was flush against the wall and stretching all the way to the ceiling for that polished built-in look.

While there was a lot of excitement, there was also a careful consideration of design, as the right blend of functionality and aesthetics is crucial in mudroom renovations. If you're contemplating a similar project, remember: sharing a customized approach that meets your everyday needs is essential in mudroom design.

Choosing the Right Hardware Matters!

Before installation day, one of the most critical steps was selecting the right hardware for the cabinets. A quick tip for DIY enthusiasts: make sure to order your cabinet hardware early so your contractor can pre-drill the holes where needed. This small detail can save you last-minute scrambling before the installation!

For our cabinets, I opted for golden champagne knobs paired with complementary pulls – a choice that echoes the fixtures in our kitchen for a cohesive look throughout the home. This attention to style versus function ensures that every piece feels intentional and designed for our lifestyle.

Why Modular and Custom Options Are Worth It

Ultimately, investing in a custom-built mudroom brings both organizational order and added value to a home. As highlighted in various renovation guides, the goal is to create a space that not only looks good but also functions effectively according to the family's needs. Whether you are collaborating with a professional or going the DIY route, consider factors like material durability and storage flexibility. Quality materials will withstand daily wear and enhance your mudroom's utility over time.

Final Touches: Paint, Style, and Beyond

As we prepare for the final touches like painting and styling, the anticipation builds. Visualizing a well-organized space isn't just about aesthetics; it’s also about making everyday life easier. From keeping shoes off the floor to having a dedicated spot for hats and gloves, our new mudroom is shaping up to be a worthy investment. Remember, a well-designed mudroom can not only elevate your home's functionality but also make entering your home a much more pleasant experience.

So, if you're dreaming of a mudroom makeover or simply in need of inspiration, I encourage you to dive into the possibilities. Plan, measure, and imagine—your dream mudroom can come alive with the right steps!

DIY Lab

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Mastering the Simple Guide to Changing Your Furnace Humidifier Filter

Update Why Change That Furnace Humidifier Filter? Many homeowners overlook the importance of changing their furnace humidifier filter until it's too late. If you've ever heard dripping sounds coming from your furnace closet, you might have already encountered this issue. A clean furnace humidifier filter is vital for maintaining a comfortable and healthy home during the chilly winter months. Identifying Your Humidifier Not all homes have a whole-house humidifier. These units are commonly found in regions with dry or cold climates where heating systems run extensively in winter. To find out if you have one, check for a small box near your furnace with a water supply line leading to it. If you don’t see any such unit, you might be just fine without one. But if you do, be sure to keep that filter fresh! How Often to Replace Your Filter? A good rule of thumb is to replace your furnace humidifier filter once every heating season, typically at the start of winter. Even if it looks okay, minerals can build up over time, interfering with moisture dispersal. In harsher climatic conditions or with hard water, you might even need to replace it more frequently. If your filter is dirty—clogged with scale buildup—replace it immediately! Ignoring it could lead to leaks or further indoor air quality issues. DIY Steps to Change Your Filter Changing a furnace humidifier filter is a quick and straightforward task. Here's how: Turn Off Everything: Shut down both the humidifier and the furnace. This ensures safety while you work. Remove the Cover: Locate the humidifier attached to your HVAC unit and take off its cover. Take Out the Old Filter: Remove the old filter; if it's scaled up, you'll know why replacement is necessary. Check for Water Build-Up: Before inserting a new filter, rinse the housing with warm water to remove any leftover minerals. Insert the New Filter: Make sure you have the right size, and insert it according to the orientation it needs to be in. Reattach the Cover: Ensure everything is snug and back in place before turning the system back on. Test Your System: Finally, turn your heating system back on and check that everything functions smoothly. Why Is This Important? By taking care of your humidifier filter, you're not just preventing leaks; you're enhancing your home's air quality and making your winters more comfortable. Staying proactive about home maintenance tasks like this one can save you from costly repairs down the road. This simple DIY project is just a few minutes of your time but has lasting benefits. If you're ready to tackle more tasks around the home, keep an eye out for additional DIY tips and maintenance guides.

2025 Reflections: Home, Growth, and DIY Journeys

Update A Year of Growth: Reflecting on 2025As we stand at the close of 2025, it's time to reflect on the amazing journey that has unfolded. This year was different; it was less about surviving and more about thriving. After navigating a challenging period with IVF, a pandemic, and life with two little ones, I finally felt grounded and supported. My theme for this year was 'strong,' and that reflected in every aspect of my life—from my personal growth to the projects I tackled around the house.Celebrating Home and Family MomentsThis year, I kicked off projects that brought joy and a sense of accomplishment. January marked the creation of Ellis’s big boy room, which not only sparked excitement but resulted in a cozy space where I could snuggle with him too! February brought our annual family trip to WaterColor, Florida, providing a much-needed winter escape filled with sunshine.The Joy of DIY ProjectsMarch was all about spring cleaning; I shared tips on fun tasks like cleaning your range hood filter (trust me, it’s more satisfying than it sounds!). Every project this year, from deep cleaning my dryer vent to launching my Substack, was not just about home improvement but also personal reflection. Each project gave me a moment to pause, breathe, and cherish family time.Looking to the Future: New Projects AheadThe year has prepared me for exciting challenges ahead, including the release of my book in 2026! As homeowners and DIY enthusiasts, let’s remember that every little project is a step toward building a home and life we love. So let's take these skills into the new year and continue to create beautiful spaces and cherished moments!

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