And who has the time or inclination to mop multiple times a week? I know I don't. Then I heard about boot trays — the low-key, luxe way to stash outdoor boots and shoes while they dry.

These gorgeous $100 embossed metal boot trays from Ballard Designs caught my eye. But if I'm ever going to get that mudroom, I figured it's best to start budgeting now. Over at Bed Bath & Beyond ...