20 Quick Things to Do Before Guests Arrive

When guests are on their way and the house feels anything but ready, it is easy to panic and start cleaning everything in sight. But most visitors will not notice the dusty shelves, unfolded laundry or clutter hiding behind a closed door. Find more manageable cleaning and organising ideas in our Family Home collection.

The secret is to focus on the handful of things that make a home look and feel welcoming at first glance. A clear entrance, a tidy bathroom, an empty kitchen sink and somewhere comfortable to sit will make far more difference than attempting a full-house clean.

This quick home reset is designed for those last-minute moments when you need to get ready for guests without exhausting yourself. Work through as many of the ideas as you have time for, concentrating on the rooms your guests will actually use. After the guests have gone, a realistic cleaning schedule can help you keep on top of the everyday jobs.

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You will find all 20 quick tasks below, along with a free one-page checklist you can keep handy for unexpected visitors, family gatherings and last-minute get-togethers. Scroll to the bottom of the post to download the free printable.

20 Quick Things to Do Before Guests Arrive

1. Put coats, shoes and bags behind one closed door

Gather up anything cluttering the entrance or main living space and place it in a bedroom, closet or other room guests will not need to enter.

2. Clear the entry table completely

The entrance creates the first impression of your home. Remove mail, keys, receipts and other everyday clutter to make it feel instantly calmer.

3. Empty the sink and wipe the faucet

Put dirty dishes in the dishwasher or stack them somewhere out of sight. Give the sink and faucet a quick wipe so the kitchen immediately looks cleaner.

4. Put clean drying dishes away

Clear the dish rack and put away anything that has been left to dry. It only takes a few minutes and makes the kitchen look much tidier.

5. Put a fresh hand towel in the bathroom

Replace the used towel with a clean one and make sure it is placed somewhere guests can easily see and reach.

6. Wipe the bathroom mirror and sink

Remove toothpaste marks, water splashes and obvious smudges from the mirror and sink. These are the areas guests are most likely to notice.

Also read: 20 Small Cleaning Jobs for a 10-Minute Home Reset

7. Take out any full trash bags

Empty full or nearly full trash cans, especially in the kitchen and bathroom. Replace the liners so everything is ready for your guests.

8. Clear only the main kitchen counter

Do not try to organize the entire kitchen. Choose the counter guests will see or use and clear that one properly.

9. Gather loose papers into one basket

Collect mail, school papers, magazines and other paperwork in a basket. You can sort through it properly after your guests have gone.

10. Straighten couch cushions and fold throws

Plump the cushions, straighten the couch and neatly fold or drape any blankets. This simple reset makes the whole living room feel more inviting.

Also read: Complete Christmas Planning Checklist

11. Move pet toys out of the walkway

Gather up pet toys and move beds, bowls or other pet items that could get in the way as guests move around your home.

12. Close doors to rooms nobody needs

There is no need to tidy every room. Close the doors to bedrooms, offices, laundry rooms and any other spaces your guests will not be using.

13. Turn on lamps instead of overhead lights

Lamps create softer, warmer lighting and help the room feel relaxed and welcoming. They are also much more forgiving than bright overhead lights.

14. Open the blinds if there is still daylight

Letting in natural light can make the house feel fresher and more spacious. Open the blinds or curtains in the main rooms your guests will use.

15. Put toilet paper where guests can see it

Check that there is enough toilet paper in the bathroom and leave a spare roll somewhere obvious so guests do not need to ask for one.

16. Wipe obvious fingerprints from glass

Use a cloth to remove visible fingerprints from glass doors, mirrors or the main windows. Only tackle the marks that are immediately noticeable.

17. Set out water glasses before guests arrive

Place a few clean glasses on the counter or table so you are ready to offer everyone a drink as soon as they arrive.

18. Check the front door for cobwebs

Take a quick look around the front door and remove any obvious cobwebs, leaves or debris. This is the first part of your home guests will see.

19. Light one candle where people gather

Light a candle in the living room or kitchen to create a warm atmosphere. Choose a subtle scent that will not overpower the room.

20. Stop cleaning ten minutes before they come

Give yourself time to put away the cleaning supplies, wash your hands, get changed if necessary and take a breath. Your guests are coming to spend time with you, not to inspect your home.

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Download the Free Checklist

Make last-minute hosting easier by downloading this free 20 Quick Things to Do Before Guests Arrive printable. Download it now and keep a copy somewhere handy for the next time guests are on their way.