Here is Virginia, school starts in two weeks.  And with the busier days comes messier houses.  An excellent way to contain some of the back-to-school madness is to create a landing strip. 

A landing strip is the space at the most frequently used entrance to the house where items tend to collect.  The easiest way to control the inevitable clutter is to analyze the exact problem.  Children drop backpacks in anticipation of an after-school snack.  Families with pets end up with leashes and water bowls blocking the path out the door.  Sports equipment turns to an obstacle course.  Mail and keys are frequently pitched and forgotten. 

Carefully consider your space and your household habits.  Frequently used items should find a permanent home near the door.  Add a piece of furniture to the entrance of your house if ample room exists.  A console table with deep drawers is recommended so that clutter can be hidden away, but a small simple table can be outfitted with a basket or a box for keys and mail.  Reorganize the nearest closet with baskets or shelves for each family member. In some cases, all that is needed is a hook attached to the wall.

Using your landing strip requires dedication at first.  But before long, placing everything in its dedicated space becomes habit.