Is Your Guest Room Really Ready?

7 Simple Touches That Make Guests Feel Instantly at Home

With the holidays coming, it’s the perfect time to get your guest room ready for visitors. Whether it’s family staying for a couple of weeks (like our daughter and son-in-law coming from California) or friends dropping in for the weekend (like last weekend), a little preparation goes a long way.

I love creating a space that feels welcoming—like a small retreat for the people I care about. Here are my favorite ways to make a bedroom feel fresh, comfortable, and ready for guests.

Start With Fresh Linens And The Right Pillows

There’s nothing like slipping into a freshly made bed. I always use crisp, clean sheets—usually white or a soft neutral—and I iron the pillowcases and top edge for that extra bit of polish.

For a queen or king bed, four fresh pillows are ideal. Double check: It might be time to buy new bed pillows or at least wash them. I like to mix firm and soft ones so guests can choose what they like best. A folded throw or blanket at the foot of the bed adds both texture and warmth.

Clear Some Space

Even if your guest room also serves another purpose (like an office), make sure there’s a little room for your visitors to settle in. Clear off the nightstands and dresser tops, and if possible, empty a couple of drawers or provide a luggage rack. A few hangers in the closet are always appreciated.

Add a Thoughtful Welcome Touch

A small gesture goes a long way. I love adding a little vase of fresh flowers—even just a few stems from the garden—and water bottles or a carafe of water with glasses by the bed.

A note with the Wi-Fi password, some snacks, and a few toiletries make guests feel instantly cared for.

Check the Lighting

Make sure there’s a good reading lamp by the bed and that all the bulbs work. I also like to add a dimmable lamp for softer lighting in the evening.

Refresh the Bathroom

If your guests have their own bathroom, give it a mini hotel treatment—fresh towel sets like from Quince, shampoo and conditioner, and a bar of soap or liquid hand wash. Make sure to have a hair dryer, magnifying mirror and wastebasket in the room. We also have cotton spa robes available in large and small sizes.

My friend Joy said recently of her stay: “I know I’m in a very nice guest suite when I see there a Dyson hair dryer in the drawer.” 🙂

A full length mirror is nice, too. This one is several years old from IKEA.

If the Grandchildren Are Coming

Depending on their ages:

• we have a portable crib ready with a soft stuffed animal to welcome them and this year the three year old will have her own big girl bed/futon
• a high chair (inexpensive from IKEA) or a clip on dining seat (I found one on Facebook Marketplace and washed it well)
• diapers or pull-ups, wipes
• an extra car seat

It’s also just a good idea to ask your daughter or son what would be handy to have on hand for their kids, especially food-wise.

Do a Final Walkthrough

Before guests arrive, step into the room and imagine you’re staying there. Is there enough lighting? Does it smell clean and inviting? Is there space for a suitcase? These small checks help ensure your guests will have everything they need.

A little effort makes such a difference. When guests feel relaxed and comfortable, it sets the tone for a wonderful visit—and you’ll enjoy hosting even more.

If you found these tips helpful, pin this post or share it with a friend who’s getting their home ready for the holidays!

You may also like Extra Special Autumn Party Ideas and Four Finishing Touches To Our New Traditional Bedroom.

Guest Bedroom Sources

Guest Bathroom Sources