Buzz
Image Credit: Inti St Clair/Getty ImagesThe holiday season is fast approaching, and if you're about to welcome loved ones into your home, you likely feel the pressure to create a cozy and inviting guest room. With so much going on at this time of year, staying organized can be a challenge! Thankfully, a solid plan can help you be the perfect host. Here’s a checklist for cleaning your guest room, along with a few additional touches, so your family and friends feel completely at home.
Eliminate the Dust
Begin by giving the room a thorough cleaning. Dust all surfaces such as the dresser, nightstands, desk, and TV if there’s one in the room. Be sure to also dust the window treatments and sills. Don't forget to vacuum the floors.
Re-Make the Bed
A made bed doesn’t always mean the linens are fresh. If you changed the bedding recently, like a week or two ago, you’re probably good. However, if it’s been a while—since Memorial Day, for instance—it's a good idea to refresh the linens.
Remember, if you live in a cooler climate, your guests might not be used to the temperatures. Always have an extra sheet and a throw blanket ready for added warmth if necessary.
Clean the Bathroom
If your guest room includes a private bathroom, ensure this space (or any bathroom they will use) is spotless. Clean the bathtubs, shower stalls, sinks, and countertops. Don't forget to wipe down the mirrors with glass cleaner, and give the toilet a thorough scrub.
Provide at least one fresh towel for each guest. Don’t forget a separate hair towel and washcloths. While a plush bathrobe isn’t necessary, it’s a thoughtful extra touch.
You don’t need to go overboard, but stocking the bathroom with essentials like soap, shampoo, conditioner, and body lotion will add a hotel-like feel. If you have an extra hair dryer, keep it stored under the sink or in a drawer.
Spruce up the Closet
Tidying the closet should only take a few minutes. Discard any empty dry cleaning bags or wire hangers. If you’re using the guest closet for your personal items, move them to one side.
Finally, leave a few empty hangers in case your guests need to hang their clothes. Non-slip or velvet hangers are ideal.
Tidy Dresser Drawers
Take a look inside the dresser drawers. If you store off-season clothes in your guest room, try to arrange them so there’s at least one empty drawer for your guests.
Prepare the Nightstand
Ensure your nightstand drawers are free of any unwanted items. Then give the surface a quick dusting.
Once decluttered, the nightstand is an ideal place for remote controls. If you can’t recall the last time the batteries were changed, consider replacing them. It’s also thoughtful to keep an extra phone charger in the drawer, so your guest won’t have to ask if they forget theirs.
Lastly, place a water bottle or carafe on the nightstand along with a cup, so they don’t need to venture to the kitchen if they get thirsty in the middle of the night.
