Preparing for guests can be a stressful endeavor. With much to account for, it can be difficult to remember all the necessary accommodations. To simplify this process, here is a guide to preparing your home for company.
Make sure your home is thoroughly clean and organized. Throw away any overflowing garbage and wipe down sticky surfaces. Likewise, make sure the sink is empty and the floors are swept or vacuumed. Remember to file away your mail and other visibly strewn papers. When cleaned properly, the first aspects of your home guests will notice are tidiness and organization.
Make space for guests’ personal belongings. For example, you could create room in your closet for guests’ jackets and/or designate a spot for bags and purses to be placed. For long-term visitors, clear space for their clothes and other possessions in the room they will be staying in. If your street has limited parking, your guests may simply need a place to park their cars. To make room, bring your car into the garage to make room for guests’ vehicles in the driveway. You can also communicate with your neighbors, as they may be able to help you provide additional space for parking or at least be more understanding if the street is a bit crowded.
To ensure your guests are well accommodated, make sure you have all the necessary amenities. For overnight or long-term guests, wash extra sheets and blankets ahead of time. Leave out additional pillows and towels beforehand so your guests can help themselves. Additionally, stock up on shower products like shampoo and everyday toiletries like toothpaste, hand soap, and toilet paper. If your guest bed is an inflatable mattress, make sure it has no holes. Likewise, inflate it in advance and place something heavy on the mattress overnight to make sure it will not deflate while your guests are sleeping. Remember to provide guests with a spare key and contact information in case of emergency. For out-of-town guests, make a list of fun activities and nice restaurants in your city.
Maintaining an open line of communication with guests is very important. Inform your guests what times you may be at work or away from your phone. For extended stays, ask your guests how many nights they plan to sleep or how many meals you may be expected to prepare. Guests who have never been to your home may also appreciate instructions to basic amenities, like a guide for the television, alarm system, etc. Additionally, explain common house rules you and your family live by, such as leaving shoes near the front door. Ultimately, communicating with your guests facilitates a smooth visit for everyone.
Ask overnight guests ahead of time what they would like for breakfast, and purchase popular breakfast items like cereal and eggs. Stocking up on coffee and tea is typically a safe measure as well. Make sure to let guests know ahead of time where food items and cooking utensils are so they can help themselves.
Prepare to host children in your home by moving fragile objects onto higher surfaces. Also, lock the doors to rooms you do not want anybody gaining access to. Between adults and their children, it is inevitable someone will request the Wi-Fi network and password; have your information readily available.
Your guests may appreciate some light literature in moments of downtime. Place a few books on your guest’s nightstand and leave out some magazines on your coffee table. Along with stimulating your guests, light literature imbues the home with an air of sophistication and can prompt interesting conversation.
Between all the necessary accommodations, preparing for house guests can be a daunting task. Stock up on toiletries and food to ensure your guests have a comfortable visit. Keep your home tidy and organized, and always remember to account for child hazards. Ultimately, properly preparing for house guests facilitates an enjoyable gathering. 
Stephen Levy
Home & Yard Magazine
