When you are having guests over but space is limited there isn’t much else you can do but offer what space you do have for their stay. That doesn’t mean their stay has to be uncomfortable or cramped! When having houseguests over these small gestures and deeds go a long way to making the home you’ve opened up to them feel like theirs.
Before you invite guests over, look at the room through their eyes. Is the room warm and welcoming? Is there adequate lighting? Does the space feel updated and clean? Adjust the room until you are happy. Make sure the room is aired out, add a lamp or two (or change the lightbulbs if they are burned out!), give the room a deep clean, have a professional clean the carpet. If the carpet is dingy or outdated, have this replaced.
Do you have proper bedding and pillows? Have you ever invested in an air mattress from the last time you went camping? Be sure to buy one if you haven’t already, they are worth it for the comfort of your guests and can be reused in a myriad of ways. Find bedding that is comfortable for the temperature you keep your home and for the time of the season. And finally, be sure to provide pillows for your guests. And no, not just the throw pillows from your couch!
Next, think to the small comforts you enjoy in your bedroom. These are things that will help your guest feel both welcome, and at home. Using your couch or a love seat as the head of the bed will allow your guest to lean comfortably against it while they read a book or magazine you left out for them in case they enjoy a night time read before turning in for the night.
And finally, be sure to think of the things they might have forgotten. You know, those things you usually get at the hotel when you panic and realize you’ve left your hair dryer or shampoo at home? Put together a toiletry basket, complete with shampoo and conditioner, body wash, a razor, hand sanitizer, toothpaste and a toothbrush, and anything else you can think of that might be useful to your guest that they may have forgotten.
These small but thoughtful ways to prepare your guest for their stay in your home are sure to put them at ease and make them feel more welcome. One final thing that nobody can live without—don’t forget to leave out the wifi username and password!