11 Things to Do Around the House Before Holiday Guests Arrive

Preparing your home for holiday visitors can feel easier when you focus on a few important tasks that bring comfort and order to each room. A quick refresh of shared spaces, clean linens, and a tidy entryway can help your guests feel welcome the moment they arrive. Simple steps like clearing clutter, adjusting lighting, and stocking essentials can create a warm setting for gatherings. Taking time to prepare now can help your holiday visit feel smooth from the very beginning.

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Tidy the Entryway

The entryway sets the tone for the entire visit, so it helps to give this area extra attention. Shoes, bags, and packages can gather near the door and make the space feel cramped. Clearing these items gives your guests an open and pleasant place to step into when they arrive. A clean entryway also creates a calm flow through the rest of the home.

You can wipe down the door, sweep the floor, and shake out or wash any rugs. It is helpful to clear a small spot where guests can place their belongings so they do not feel rushed or overwhelmed. Adding a small bowl or basket for keys or loose items can make the space feel organized without much effort.

You may also check the lighting to make sure the area feels bright enough. A dim entryway can make the home feel dull, while a light and clean space sends a warm welcome the moment guests walk in.

Refresh the Living Room

The living room often becomes the main gathering space, so a quick reset goes a long way. Straightening the sofa, adjusting throw pillows, and folding blankets can make the room feel calm and tidy. Removing toys, paperwork, or anything that does not belong helps create a space where your guests can relax without distraction.

Wiping coffee tables, dusting surfaces, and clearing crowded shelves can also help the room feel welcoming. It might be helpful to check under furniture and cushions to remove crumbs or items that may make the space feel messy. Opening windows for a few minutes brings in fresh air and helps brighten the room.

You can also think about seating arrangements to make conversation easier. Moving a chair or adjusting the angle of the sofa may help guests feel included and comfortable.

Clean the Kitchen Counters and Sink

The kitchen often becomes a busy spot during gatherings, so clear counters help the space stay functional. Removing old mail, expired snacks, or unnecessary gadgets frees up space for food preparation. A clean sink and empty dishwasher make it easier to manage dishes once guests arrive.

Wiping the counters, stovetop, and cabinet handles can give the room a fresh look. It is helpful to place commonly used items like paper towels or utensils where guests can reach them without searching. Clearing clutter allows you to focus on holiday cooking without feeling overwhelmed.

A quick sweep or mop gives the kitchen a tidy finish before guests arrive. This small step helps prevent dust or crumbs from spreading to other parts of the house.

Prep the Guest Bedroom

A prepared guest bedroom gives visitors a place to rest without worry. You can start by changing the sheets, fluffing the pillows, and adding an extra blanket for warmth. Removing clutter from surfaces and drawers makes the room feel peaceful and comfortable.

Placing fresh towels on the bed gives guests an easy place to find what they need. It is helpful to clear a small area in the closet or dresser so there is room for their clothing. Adding a small lamp or clock can give the room a pleasant touch.

You may also check that windows open properly and that the room smells fresh. A few minutes of airing out the room can make it feel inviting.

Stock the Guest Bathroom

A clean and well-prepared bathroom helps guests settle in with ease. You can refill soap dispensers, place clean towels on a shelf, and check that toiletries like toilet paper and tissues are available. This small effort can help guests feel cared for the moment they walk in.

Wiping mirrors, counters, and the sink brings a neat and tidy look to the space. You might want to remove personal products so the room feels open and uncluttered. A clean trash bin and fresh hand towel add a nice finishing touch.

Checking that the shower curtain is clean and that the water runs properly helps guests feel comfortable during their stay. Good lighting completes the space and adds a warm feel.

Clear Out the Refrigerator

A tidy refrigerator makes holiday cooking feel easier. Removing old leftovers and wiping shelves helps create space for dishes you plan to prepare. Guests may also store their own items, so having open shelves is helpful.

Rearranging condiments and drinks can give you better access to what you need. It is helpful to group items that are often used together to make cooking smoother. A quick clean keeps odors away and makes the space feel fresh.

You may also restock drinks or snacks that your guests enjoy. This thoughtful step makes the kitchen more welcoming.

Wipe Down High Touch Surfaces

Doorknobs, light switches, and railings gather dirt quickly. Wiping these areas helps keep the home clean and comfortable. This small task makes a big difference when preparing for guests.

It is helpful to walk through the house with a soft cloth and cleaning spray. You can focus on areas that people touch often so they feel clean and fresh. This simple step helps make the home feel cared for.

You may also include remote controls, drawer handles, and appliance buttons. These spots are easy to miss but make the home feel tidy.

Freshen Up the Dining Area

The dining table plays a large part in holiday gatherings. Clearing the surface and wiping everything down helps the room look ready for meals. You can move extra items off the table to make room for dishes and decorations.

Straightening chairs and cleaning seat cushions helps guests feel comfortable during long meals. It is helpful to check placemats or tablecloths for stains and switch them out if needed. Good lighting and open space around the table make the room feel inviting.

You may place a small centerpiece if you want a simple touch. Keeping it low helps guests see one another easily.

Vacuum and Sweep Main Areas

Floors collect dust quickly, especially during busy weeks. Vacuuming and sweeping help your home feel clean for guests who may remove their shoes or walk barefoot. Taking a few minutes to refresh the floors brings a neat finish to the house.

You can focus on hallways, the living room, and any room guests may enter. It is helpful to move small items and rugs so the cleaning process reaches every corner. This makes the home look tidy without extra effort.

Mopping where needed gives a polished look. It also helps the home feel fresh for holiday gatherings.

Prepare Extra Seating

Holiday gatherings often need more seating than usual. Bringing out folding chairs or rearranging furniture helps create enough room for conversation and meals. Thinking ahead helps avoid last-minute stress.

You can place chairs in a way that encourages guests to interact. Keeping a comfortable distance between seats helps everyone feel relaxed. Light blankets or cushions can add softness for long conversations.

Checking that chairs are sturdy and clean gives guests confidence in the seating. This simple step adds to the comfort of the home.

Wash Guest Towels and Linens

Fresh towels and linens help guests feel welcome. Washing them ahead of time frees you from rushing when guests arrive. It also ensures that everything smells clean and pleasant.

Folding towels neatly and placing them where guests can reach them makes the stay easier. You can also add an extra set in case they need more during their visit. This creates a sense of care without much work.

Checking blankets and pillow covers helps complete the guest area. Clean bedding brings comfort throughout their stay.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.