Tips on Preparing Your Home For Holiday Guests

by Blue Crew

By Lilly Woodard

With the holidays right around the corner, you may face the challenge of getting your home ready for your friends and family. While getting your home ready for guests can be daunting, we’ve pulled together a list of tips to help you get your home ready for the upcoming holidays.

Cleaning

Obviously, cleaning is the common thing to think of when preparing your home for guests. It can definitely be intimidating, especially with everything that needs to be done in time for your guests. So, what are the most important things to clean if you’re on a time crunch?

The floors! Make sure to pick up any loose items so no one trips or happens to break anything. You’ll also want to vacuum, especially if you have pets because that hair can get everywhere.

Wash blankets, sheets, or any covers guests may use. Even if your guests are staying for only a few hours, everyone likes a freshly clean blanket when they sit around with family.

Clear away leaves and debris outside. We don’t want anyone to get injured before the party starts! Additionally, if snow and ice are predicted, spreading salt is a good idea.

Preparing Guest Rooms

While some of the preparation of the guestrooms involves cleaning, there can be a bit more to it. Many times, our guests’ rooms can also become storage rooms…so decluttering and putting things away are the perfect places to start. And once you have the sheets washed, you’re set!

Of course, you can always go above and beyond for your guests. Providing a caddy of “may-needs” is nice. Good options include a charger, toothpaste, a nightlight, and other toiletries.

The Bathrooms

The cleaning step also includes the bathroom, but it doesn’t hurt to touch on it more! Clean the toilets and make sure the necessities are stocked. Is there enough toilet paper? How about towels for your guests? Shampoo and conditioner? Soap that isn’t on its last leg? Is there a trash bag in the trash can?

Of course, a cute little decoration for the counter is a nice touch, too.

Food and The Kitchen

It’s bound to be a crazy day with family, friends, presents, food, and more. Likely, there will be a celebratory dinner that can take a while to prepare. Most people begin prepping in advance, which is the smart decision. But to keep hands out of your not-yet-ready dishes and fewer bodies in your way, have some snack food out and presented to keep everyone held over until the meal is served.

Cheese and crackers, chips and queso, pretzels, and chocolates are always a big hit in my house!

Make sure your guests are comfortable and well-fed but don’t forget about your own comfort in the process. These times are about harmony and enjoying the time we have with our friends and family. Take care of yourself as well to ensure you can enjoy this time with the people you care about!

Happy holidays!