Key Areas to Clean Before Guests Arrive
Hey there, friends! Let’s chat about something we all think about but maybe don’t want to admit: the anxiety that creeps in when you know guests are coming over. I mean, who hasn’t stressed about those little details in the random room upstairs that nobody ever goes to? But here’s the real deal: the first moments your guests spend in your home—the entrance, the guest bathroom, and those little touches—are what really stick in their minds. So today, we want to dive into the key areas to focus on that will totally elevate that first impression, along with the smell of your home, which is super important too!
1. The Entrance
First impressions matter, right? Your entryway sets the tone for everything that follows. That goes for cleanliness and decor. This space tells a story about who you are. Your travels. Your family. Your interests. So, let’s make sure it’s looking its best! Wipe down your front door (yes the outside of it and the inside!) and all the decor. Keep your doormat and front porch clean and tidy. If you have shoes by the door, make sure they’re arranged nicely. A cluttered coat rack? Not the vibe we’re going for—purge that regularly!
2. The Living Room
This is probably where you’ll be entertaining your guests (we'll get to the kitchen later), whether it’s for coffee, dinner, or just a casual hangout, they'll likely make a stop in the living room. Make sure those surfaces are dusted and give the upholstery a good vacuum. Vacuuming upholstery is so, so important. Trust us, pet hair and dirt really stand out. And let’s talk about clutter—decluttering can make a huge difference! Your guests will appreciate the tidy space.
3. The Kitchen
Ah, the kitchen—the heart of the home! Guests are definitely going to notice how clean it is. So, wipe down your countertops and appliances, and make sure the sink is clear of dirty dishes. And that trash can? If it’s stinky, it’s going to leave a bad impression, so take care of that! Take the trash out always, no one wants to go to toss something away and see a full trashcan in your home. Yuck. But the bin itself can smell bad too. Clean it out frequently with soap and water to prevent that.
4. The Bathroom
Whichever bath your guests will be using, keep this bathroom clean all the time, just in case unexpected visitors pop over. As someone who uses their "guest bath" as one of the main family bathrooms, I'm telling you it can be done. That means scrubbing the toilet and sink, wiping down mirrors, and having a fresh hand towel ready. Oh, and super important, don’t forget about those dust bunnies behind the door! Guests are going to shut the door when they go in, and you don’t want them to see that mess.
5. Air Quality and Scent
This one’s HUGE. The smell of your home can really set the tone and mood for the entire visit. Open up those windows for some fresh air! Use essential oils or incense to create a lovely fragrance. You could even spritz some of your favorite cologne on the upholstery. And if your sink has a stinky drain, toss in some lemon to freshen it up!
When you’re cleaning in a rush before company arrives, focus on these key areas: your front entryway, ensuring your home smells good, cleaning the floors and upholstery, wiping away window smudges, and checking that the toilet is clean. These little things can catch your guests' attention, and trust me, they’ll appreciate it!
Feel free to save this post or jot down a list for yourself the next time someone mentions stopping by or before hosting a dinner. Happy cleaning!