Hosting guests at your home can be a delightfully rewarding experience. The joy of sharing your space, the chatter, the food, and the shared memories make all the preparations worthwhile.
However, there’s one task we all agree can be a bit of a challenge – deep cleaning the house. And it’s not just about the usual suspects like the living room or the kitchen. There are often overlooked spaces that need your attention just as much.
So, let’s roll up our sleeves and delve into the 13 places in your home that need a thorough scrub-down before your guests arrive. Trust me, you’ll thank me later when you see their impressed smiles upon entering your meticulously cleaned abode!
1. Entryway and Hallways: The First Impression
The entryway is the first thing your guests see, so it’s essential to make it welcoming and clean. Start by dusting off any framed photos or artwork, wiping down the door, and cleaning the floor. Don’t forget to shake out the welcome mat too! The hallways also need a good sweep and mop, especially the corners which often collect dust. A good tip is to use a long-handled duster for those hard-to-reach areas.
Remember, the entryway and hallways are the first impression of your home for your guests, so make sure they are spotless and inviting. Check out this checklist for more tips on cleaning your entryway and hallways.
2. Living Room: The Main Gathering Space
The living room is where your guests will likely spend a lot of their time, so it’s crucial that this space is clean and comfortable. Start by dusting all the surfaces, including the coffee table, end tables, and entertainment center. Don’t forget to clean under the couch cushions and vacuum the carpet or mop the floor.
Remember to clean the windows too. Nothing impresses guests more than a beautifully clean, sunlit room. You can find some useful cleaning tips in this guide.
3. Kitchen: The Heart of the Host’s Home
The kitchen is often referred to as the heart of the home, and it’s definitely a place that guests will visit. Ensure the countertops are spotless, the sink is sparkling, and the floor is clean. Don’t forget about the appliances – the microwave, fridge, and oven all need a good wipe down.
Also, consider decluttering your kitchen. A clean and organized kitchen will make your guests feel more comfortable, not to mention make cooking and serving easier for you. For more useful kitchen cleaning tips, check out this article.
4. Guest Bathroom: The Essential Comfort Zone
The guest bathroom is another essential area to deep clean. Ensure the sink, toilet, and shower or bathtub are spotless and free of any stains or grime. Stock it with fresh towels and a new bar of soap or a full hand soap dispenser. Don’t forget to clean the mirror, as water spots or smudges can be a negative reflection on your home’s cleanliness.
Another pro tip: keep the bathroom smelling fresh with an air freshener or diffuser. Guests are sure to appreciate the extra touch!
5. Dining Area: The Feast Spot
The dining area, where your guests will enjoy the meals you’ve lovingly prepared, also needs to be deep cleaned. Dust and polish your dining table and chairs, paying attention to any hidden crumbs or dust in the corners. Also, ensure your tableware, from plates to glasses, are sparkling clean.
A clean dining area won’t just make meal times pleasant, but it will also showcase your attention to detail and hospitality.
6. Guest Bedroom: The Personal Space
If your guests are staying overnight, the guest bedroom is a key area to clean. Freshly laundered bed linen, clean curtains, dust-free surfaces, and a vacuumed floor are musts.
It’s also a nice touch to empty the closet or drawers if your guests are staying for a few days. This will give them space to unpack and feel more at home. This Real Simple guide offers more tips on preparing your guest bedroom.
7. Home Office: The Unexpected Tour Spot
Your home office might not be a traditional guest space, but it’s a good idea to tidy it up nonetheless. Guests may need to use your home office for various reasons, like checking their emails or making a quick call. Ensure the desk is clean and clutter-free, and the chair is dusted and comfortable.
Also, clean any bookshelves or storage units and ensure the floor is vacuumed or mopped.
8. Kids’ Room: The Unexpected Play Zone
If you have children and your guests do too, the kids’ room will likely become a play zone. Ensure it’s neat and tidy, with toys organized and surfaces dust-free. Also, vacuum the carpet or mop the floor, as kids often play on the floor.
Remember, a clean kids’ room will not only impress your guests but also ensure a safe and healthy play environment for the children.
9. Backyard/Patio: The Outdoor Retreat
Outdoor spaces like the backyard or patio can be perfect spots for a breath of fresh air or an outdoor meal. Make sure these areas are clean and inviting. Sweep the patio, clean the outdoor furniture, and make sure the barbecue (if you have one) is clean and ready to use.
Also, don’t forget to mow the lawn and trim any overgrown plants. A well-kept outdoor space can greatly enhance your guests’ experience at your home.
10. Game Room/Bar Area: The Entertainment Hub
If you have a game room or bar area, this will likely be a hub of entertainment for your guests. Ensure the bar is clean and well-stocked, and all games and equipment are neat and tidy. Also, clean the floors and dust any shelves or cabinets.
Remember, a clean and organized entertainment space will create a more enjoyable experience for your guests.
11. Staircase and Railings: The Often-Touched Spots
Staircases and railings might not seem like obvious cleaning spots, but they are often touched by everyone in the house. Dust the stair treads and wipe down the railings to ensure they are clean and free of germs.
Also, cleaning the staircase and railings can improve the overall appearance of your home, making it seem cleaner and more well-maintained.
12. Closets and Storage Spaces: The Hidden Corners
Closets and storage spaces are often overlooked during cleaning, but they can accumulate a lot of dust and clutter. Ensure these spaces are clean and well-organized. It’s not only about looking good for your guests but also about making sure they have space to hang their coats or store their luggage if needed.
Remember, every detail counts when it comes to impressing your guests and making them feel comfortable in your home.
13. The Floors: The Underfoot and Overlooked
Last but not least, don’t forget to clean all the floors in your home. Whether it’s carpet, hardwood, or tile, ensure it’s vacuumed or mopped and free of any stains or spots. Clean floors can greatly enhance the overall cleanliness of your home.
You can find some great tips on how to effectively clean different types of floors in this book.
So, there you have it – 13 places in your home that need a deep clean before your guests arrive. Happy cleaning!