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Frequently asked questions
What size storage bench fits most entryways?
A bench in the 42–48 inch width range works for most standard entryways without overwhelming the space or blocking the door swing. If your entryway is narrower than about 5 feet wide, go down to a 36-inch bench or consider a skinny console-style bench instead. Always measure the wall you plan to use AND check the door swing radius before ordering — nothing is more annoying than a gorgeous bench that prevents the front door from opening fully.
Are storage benches with flip-top lids safe for small children?
Standard flip-top storage benches are a pinch hazard for small fingers unless the hinge is soft-close or the lid has a stay-open mechanism that prevents it slamming. If you have toddlers or young children, look specifically for benches with a soft-close or pneumatic lid support, or opt for an open-cubby design that has no lid at all. Some parents add an aftermarket soft-close hinge damper, which is a cheap fix if you already own a bench without one.
Can a storage bench go in a small apartment entryway?
Yes — a storage bench is often the single best piece of furniture you can put in a small apartment entryway because it consolidates shoe chaos AND gives you a seat in one footprint. The key is sizing: aim for a bench that is no deeper than 14–16 inches (front to back) and no taller than 18–20 inches so it doesn't visually crowd the space. A bench with open legs also looks less heavy than one that goes to the floor.
How do I keep an entryway bench seat clean with kids and pets?
The most low-maintenance seat materials in a family entryway are faux leather, vinyl, or performance fabric (often labeled as water-repellent or stain-resistant). These wipe down with a damp cloth. Natural fabric upholstery looks beautiful but absorbs dirt and moisture from wet coats and muddy paws much faster. A slatted wood seat is the most washable option of all but is the least comfortable for sitting. Putting a small machine-washable cushion or sheepskin throw on a wood-seat bench is a good compromise.
What's the difference between an entryway bench and a mudroom bench?
The terms overlap, but generally an entryway bench is designed for a more decorative, front-of-house space and prioritizes appearance — upholstered seats, attractive finishes, statement legs. A mudroom bench is built for a utility space (garage entry, back door, laundry room) and prioritizes durability: easy-clean surfaces, hooks overhead, deeper cubbies for boots and backpacks. If your entryway gets genuinely muddy, wet boot traffic every day, a mudroom-style bench with slatted wood or washable vinyl will hold up much better than a tufted upholstered one.
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