If you live in a city like Indianapolis, your guests may be visiting for a special occasion, a holiday, or even a work trip. They may spend most of the day out and about, but they still want to return to a space that feels like home. That means your job as a host is to make things as easy and pleasant for them as possible.
This guide walks you through some practical steps to make your home guest-ready without adding extra stress.
Prep the Guest Room Like a Pro
The guest room is the first place your visitors will go to settle in. Start with the basics—fresh sheets, extra pillows, and a clean blanket. Make sure the mattress is comfortable and not something you’d be embarrassed to sleep on yourself.
Go a little further by adding small touches that make a difference. Place a phone charger near the bed. Put a bottle of water on the nightstand. Clear out space in drawers or the closet so they don’t have to live out of a suitcase. Even a simple lamp near the bed can make guests feel more at ease, especially if they’re unfamiliar with the layout of your home.
Deep Clean the Bathroom They’ll Use
Guests always notice the bathroom. Take time to scrub everything—especially the toilet, sink, tub, and floor. Clean mirrors and make sure there are no signs of mildew or old soap.
Then stock the space. Set out clean towels, toilet paper, and hand soap. Add a few extras like travel-size shampoo, conditioner, or a toothbrush in case they forgot theirs. This is also a good time to check for any needed updates. Many homeowners also turn to professionals who offer bathroom remodeling in Indianapolis to tackle projects like shower replacement or lighting upgrades.
Make Room for Their Stuff
Your guests will bring bags, coats, and maybe even gifts. If your space is cluttered, it’s harder for them to settle in. Go through the areas they’ll use and make space. In the guest room, clear out a drawer or a shelf. In the hallway, free up space for coats or shoes.
This doesn’t mean you need to empty a whole closet—just give them enough room to feel like they belong. It shows that you planned ahead and made space just for them.
Stock the Kitchen with Essentials
Visitors may not expect a full menu, but it helps to have some basics ready. Ask in advance about food preferences, allergies, or dietary needs. Once you know, stock up on easy items like snacks, bottled water, coffee, and fruit.
Set up a small coffee area if you can. Add mugs, sugar, and creamers in a spot they can access without asking. If they wake up before you do, they’ll appreciate not needing to dig through your kitchen.
Clean and Open Up Shared Living Spaces
Guests don’t just use the guest room—they’ll spend time in your living room, dining area, and kitchen too. These shared spaces should feel open and easy to use. Start by putting away items that don’t need to be out. This includes stacks of mail, unused electronics, pet toys, or laundry baskets.
Vacuum or sweep the floors, wipe down surfaces, and fluff the couch cushions. If you have a lot of personal items on shelves or coffee tables, consider removing a few. This gives your space a more open look and makes guests feel like they’re not stepping on your routine. If you’re tight on space, consider storing clutter in bins or baskets until your visitors leave.
Sort Out Parking and Home Access Details
Think about how your guests will arrive. If they’re driving, make sure they know where they can park. If you live in a neighborhood with limited street parking, save them the hassle by reserving a space ahead of time or guiding them to nearby public options.
You should also prepare for how they’ll enter your home. If you won’t be around when they arrive, leave a key or use a lockbox. If you have a keypad entry, make sure they know the code and how to use it. These small details can help guests avoid confusion and give you peace of mind.
Offer Simple Ways to Stay Entertained
Not every moment of your guests’ stay will be planned. Some people wake up early, others stay up late. It’s helpful to offer easy ways to stay entertained. You don’t need to plan out activities, but having a few things available helps them relax on their own.
Leave out a few magazines or books in the guest room. Make sure your streaming services are logged in and ready. If they’re not familiar with your remote or TV setup, leave a short note on how to use it. If your guests are visiting from out of town, offer brochures or suggestions for things to do nearby.
Prepare for Their Tech Needs in Advance
Today, everyone travels with phones, tablets, or laptops. Help your guests stay connected by preparing for their tech needs. First, make sure your Wi-Fi password is easy to find. Print it out or write it on a card they can keep.
Check that outlets near the bed or desk are open and easy to reach. If possible, provide a spare charger or power strip in case they forget theirs. If your internet connection sometimes drops, let them know when it tends to happen and how to fix it if needed. Being upfront helps avoid frustration.
Set Expectations to Avoid Awkward Moments
If you have a work-from-home schedule, early bedtime, or morning routine, it’s fair to share that with your guests. You don’t need to be strict—just clear. Let them know when the kitchen is usually in use or which bathroom they should stick to. If you prefer quiet time after 10 p.m., mention it kindly.
Being open about your boundaries doesn’t make you a bad host. In fact, most people appreciate knowing what works best for you. It helps everyone settle in and enjoy the visit more.
Preparing your home for guests doesn’t have to feel like a big project. With a few thoughtful changes, you can create a space that’s welcoming, clean, and easy to enjoy. Whether it’s deep cleaning the guest bathroom or stocking the fridge with snacks, each step helps your visitors feel at home.
You don’t need a perfect house to be a great host. What matters most is that your guests feel considered. A little effort ahead of time makes the visit better for everyone—and helps you relax and enjoy their company too.
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