How to Prepare Your Home for Overnight Guests

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of CORT Furniture Clearance Center. All opinions are 100% mine.

Along with colder weather, the holiday season also brings along more visitors and overnight guests. It’s easy to get stressed out when preparing your home to host family and friends. However, if you focus on a few key areas for your guest spaces then all you have to do is add seasonal decor and you won’t have to spend hours prepping and feeling overwhelmed.

Today I’m sharing my favorite tips that will help you prepare your home for overnight guests so you can focus on what’s truly important.

HOW TO PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR OVERNIGHT GUESTS

Tidy up

If you’re tight on time, focus on the areas that your guests will be using. Typically, that includes the kitchen, living room, bathroom and guest bedroom space. I also like to spruce up my entryway with a new welcome mat and wreath. During the holiday season, you can also add small touches of holiday decor to add warmth to your home. Remember, you don’t have to do it alone. Get your family involved and go on a quick cleaning spree. Once you’re done, simmer a pot of homemade potpourri to fill your home with a warm welcoming scent. It’s the little things that go a long way, and your guests will appreciate it.

Stock up on essentials

Don’t forget to stock up on essentials items that your guests may need. Some essential items I like to keep on hand are disposable hand towels, soap, shampoo, conditioner, lotion and toothpaste. Your guests will likely bring some of their own toiletries, but it’s always good practice to be prepared in case they forget something.

Prep the guest bedroom

I like to ensure that the bedroom our guests will be sleeping in is comfortable and has all the basics our guests will need. That includes a nightstand with a small lamp, a dresser with some empty drawers in case they need to unpack, and a comfortable chair that they can use for reading or lounging. I also like to add personal little touches using flowers and candles. 

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Provide fresh linens

Give your overnight guests the hotel treatment and ensure that their bed linens are freshly washed. Have extra blankets and pillows available in the guest bedroom in case they wind up needing them. I also like to keep new towels and washcloths handy so my guests don’t have to use our family’s towels. 

Create a welcome basket

Create a welcome basket for your overnight guests which includes some of their favorite snacks and toiletries. Some of my favorite items to include are facial tissues and lip care products. Hand sanitizing spray pens are also great to help keep germs at bay during the cold season. You can also add small water bottles and magazines. This small gesture will go a long way and will make your guests feel special.

Plan a special home meal

Before your guests arrive, find out what their favorite foods are so you can plan a special meal or two during their stay. However, don’t add unnecessary stress by cooking a huge elaborate meal. You can keep some dishes semi-homemade, or even order take out. I find that when I cook a large amount of food for gatherings, I wind up with a ton of leftovers. So keep it simple so you’re not wasting time nor money. For more room inspiration and solutions make sure to check out the CORT Blog!