How to Prevent Puddles from Winter Boots with a Boot Tray

Using a boot tray to contain the mess created by winter boots can make a big difference in your foyer or mudroom. If your entryway is carpeted, the accumulated slush from winter boots can lead to mildew and carpet deterioration. If the entryway is a hardwood, the excess moisture can damage the flooring. Whether you buy a boot tray from a designer store, a hardware store, or opt for one that you make yourself, a boot tray is the ticket to keep you from stepping in puddles and watching your flooring age prematurely.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Browse the boot tray selection of stores associated with tying function and beauty together--stores like Crate and Barrel or Smith and Hawken are excellent choices. The boot tray sold by Crate and Barrel is 100% rubber, making it very easy to clean. The boot tray sold by Smith and Hawken is a bit more stylish and is made of rustproof metal.

2. Check your local hardware store (such as Ace Hardware or True Value) for a basic boot tray. The boot tray selection at the hardware store will not be as stylish as those you'll see at Crate and Barrel or Smith and Hawken, but they will still prevent the mess in your mudroom.

3. Make your own boot tray. If you are unconcerned with the appearance of your boot tray you likely have the supplies you need to make your own at home. You don't need anything more than a rimmed baking sheet to keep the water from your boots contained and off of your wood floor or carpeting.

Tips & Warnings

• A typical boot tray will hold an average of three pairs of boots. This varies by boot tray and boot size.
• You can make your own boot tray if you'd rather not the money on buying a new one. Read this to find out how: http://www.ehow.com/how_4751991_boot-tray.html

[vallain]

on 2/15/2009 I'm glad to live in Florida and not need a boot tray.