We love to host and frequently have friends coming and going. In general, we have a long list of ways to prepare for visits -- from food shopping (taking into account allergies), cleaning extensively (especially the kitchen), organizing and decluttering.
Today we’re sharing some tips that are not so glamorous but trust us, it goes a lot way. It’s important that your guests feel welcome and comfortable and we know these tasks help you to prepare for their stay!
5 things to toss before your guests arrive:
Garbage & Recycling
The kitchen garbage and recycling. The kitchen is the busiest room in the house and you're bound to spend time in there with guests. Smelly and unsightly garbage is a quick way to dampen the vibe.
Bathroom Trash
Similarly, empty out any trash cans in the bathrooms and guest rooms. We want our guests to feel like they're at a B&B when they visit - and basic cleanliness is a must.
Old Food
Throw out old food in your fridge. Our favorite guests are the ones who get whatever they need from our fridge because it means they're comfortable in our home. To that end, we don't need them seeing week old meatloaf.
Used/Expired Toiletries
Used and/or expired toiletries in the bathroom. For example, we're not fans of soap bars. We don't want to use yours, and we don't really want you to use ours either. Go ahead and toss the bar next to your sink and replace it with a soap dispenser.
Pet Hair
Pet Hair. This one sounds strange because you don't necessarily think about 'throwing out' pet hair, but we throw out handfuls of it! It's essential to clean and remove pet hair from carpets, couches, blankets, pillows, etc... before having guests. Not only is it unsightly, but so many people have allergies these days. The last thing you want (which we've experienced) is a dinner guest with red eyes and the sniffles who can barely stay awake because of the emergency Benadryl dose they had to take.
PRO TIP
Change out the framed photos in your guest room with photos of you and your guests together — seeing those memories always makes guests feel more welcome.