You've been informed without much notice that a houseguest will be staying over. Here are some ways to get mobilized so you appear gracious and prepared rather than hassled and on the spot. Even if you're not happy at the idea of surprise houseguests, everyone feels better when they are prepared.
The Essential Rooms. Focus on the essential rooms, and don't worry about those that the guest won't be spending time in. The essential rooms usually are the guest's bedroom, the bathroom that the guest will be using, the kitchen and the living room.
Inspect and Clean as Needed. Visit each room with a critical eye. What needs to be moved and cleaned, and what clutter needs to be relocated? Go room by room and do this first. Imagine that you are the guest in another's home. What would the room need to make you feel comfortable? Certainly, piles of toys, clothing or books that you meant to shelve aren't welcoming. Do what you need to in the amount of time you have. Either clean up, or move the piles somewhere else for the time being.
Stock the Bathroom. Be sure there is extra toilet paper in an obvious place and a pile of clean, folded towels available. Actually, if you really want to make a guest feel comfortable, leave the toilet brush and plunger somewhere accessible. There's few things more embarrassing for a gracious guest than leaving the toilet less than usable or having to ask for toilet paper at an inopportune moment. For the extra bed-and-breakfast touch, have a nice little basket with some sample-sized toiletry items on the counter, such as a new toothbrush, little toothpaste, shampoo, tissues and a new bar of soap. Also, a clean glass or paper cups are necessary.
Make the Bedroom Welcoming. Put fresh linens on the bed, and make it neatly. Be sure the guest has a clear place to put his or her clothes, such as a room in the closet with empty hangers, and shelves or a drawer or two if possible. Also, it is helpful to have a space cleared on a dresser top and a nightstand or table next to the bed for the guest's essentials. Provide a clock and a reading lamp by the bed, along with an extra blanket at the end of the bed.
Make a Munchies Run. Stock the fridge with some cold drinks, such as water, lemonade or tea. Add some snack foods like chips and cookies. Breakfast essentials are coffee, milk, cereal, bagels, cream cheese, margarine and fruit. Be sure to show the guest what is available for his or her enjoyment.
Make a Comfy Living Room Space. Straighten up the living room, and be sure there is a place to sit. Set out a throw blanket if needed, and have good lighting available for the guest to relax.
If you take care of these things, you'll be ready, and you can enjoy the hosting experience.
 | Making a house guest feel welcome starts with imagining that you are a guest in your own house. |
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