Don't Forget to Clean These Things Before Guests Visit for the Holidays

Spruce up your space so friends and family feel welcome.

The holidays are almost here, and if you’re getting ready to have family and friends stay with you, you probably feel pressure to create the perfect guest room to keep everyone comfortable. Plus, there's so much to do this time of year, it's hard to keep track of everything! Fortunately, you can be a good host as long as you have a guide. Here’s a list of what to clean in your guest room, as well as a few extra things, so your friends and family feel like they're right at home.

Related: Everything You Need for the Ultimate Guest Room

Bust the Dust

Start by giving the room a deep cleaning. Dust all surfaces including the dresser, nightstands, desk, and television if there is one. Widow treatments and sills should also be dusted. Don’t forget to vacuum the floors.

Re-Make the Bed

Just because the bed is made doesn’t mean the linens are clean. If you put on fresh bedding a week or two ago you’re probably fine, but if you haven’t washed the bedding since Memorial Day, it’s best to freshen things up.

Don’t forget—if you live in a cooler climate, your guests might not be used to the weather. So always have a top sheet as well as a throw available for a little bit of extra warmth if needed.

Clean the Bathroom

If your guest room has its own bathroom, it’s important to make sure this space (or whatever bathroom they use) is sparkling. Wash bathtubs and shower stalls as well as sinks and countertops. Don’t forget to clean the mirrors with glass cleaner. Finally, scrub the toilet.

Make sure there is at least one fresh towel per guest. Don’t forget a hair towel and washcloths. A plush bathrobe isn’t an essential, but definitely a thoughtful bonus.

While you don’t have to go all out, it’s also nice to stock the bathroom with basics like soap, shampoo, conditioner, and body lotion like a hotel. Keep an extra hair dryer under the sink or in a drawer if you have one available.

Related: How to Deep Clean Your Bathroom in 10 Steps

Spruce up the Closet

Cleaning up your closet should only take a few minutes. Throw out any empty dry cleaning bags or wire hangers. If you are using the guest closet for your own clothing—move everything to one side.

Lastly, leave a few empty hangers out should your guests need to hang any of their clothing. Non-slip or velvet hangers are best.

Tidy up Dresser Drawers

Peep the inside of the dresser drawers. If you keep your off-season clothing in your guest room, try to consolidate it so there is one empty drawer for your guests.

Prepare the Nightstand

Make sure your nightstand drawers don’t have anything that shouldn’t be there. Then do a quick wipe down for dust.

One decluttered, this is a smart spot for remote controls. Make sure to put in fresh batteries if you can’t remember the last time they were replaced. It’s also nice to stash an extra phone charger in the drawer, so your guest doesn’t have to bother you if they forget theirs.

Finally, put a water bottle or carafe on the nightstand with a cup so they don’t have to go to the kitchen if they’re thirsty in the middle of the night. 

Related: 23 Guest Bedroom Ideas for a Cozy, Inviting Space

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