When guests are on their way, the last thing you want is to be wading through clutter. As house cleaners, we’ve seen it all – and cleaned it twice. Here are our favorite holiday hosting tips we’ve seen!
Start with good smells.
It’s the first thing guests notice, even before their coats come off. Crack a few windows to freshen the air, then take out the trash for maximum impact. Wipe down your bins and run lemon rinds through the garbage disposal to clear out any lingering funk. Lastly, set the mood with a simmer pot, a tray of cookies in the oven, or a candle you love. It’s an easy way to make your home feel clean, even before they notice it looks that way.
Declutter the guest zones.
Skip the linen closet and focus on the spaces your guests will use most. A quick reset in the entryway, kitchen, guest room, and bathroom goes a long way. Stash anything personal or out of place and clear surfaces where clutter tends to gather.
Decorative baskets are one of our favorite holiday hosting tips.
Actually, we love this tip for any time of year! Place a basket in every room. Then, toss any clutter that accumulates throughout the week (or the holiday) into the basket. Later, you can sort it and put everything back where it belongs. This keeps your space looking and feeling tidy, without sacrificing family time.
Leave space for their stuff.
A little goes a long way. One empty drawer, a clear shelf, or even just a clean corner for their suitcase makes a room cozier. Better yet, a foldable luggage rack or sturdy bench lets them access their bags without crouching down. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference.
Clear some space on the counters.
This one is for your own sanity. When surfaces are clean and empty, it’s easier to host without feeling the chaos. This is especially true for high-traffic zones like bathrooms and kitchens where everyone’s things tend to pile up. It’s one of the most practical holiday hosting tips you’ll want to implement all the time.
Add the special touches.
One of the AirBNBs we clean loves to leave out a clean, fluffy towel and a new loofah for guests. It gets rave reviews for feeling caring, thoughtful, and inviting. If you want to take it up a notch, consider leaving a carafe of water next to the bed.
A clean home sets the stage. A welcoming one makes the memory. Happy Holidays!
