- 1). Write down what you need to accomplish before your houseguests arrive. Divide the tasks if you have other people living in your home. If not, divide the tasks into manageable chunks that you can accomplish on a day-to-day basis. For instance, if you need to wash linens and remake beds, schedule that for a morning. If you need to go grocery shopping, schedule that for an afternoon.
- 2). Plan meals and prepare as much as you can in advance. If you're planning on eating salad at most meals, wash and chop veggies or fruits for easy additions. If you want to serve dessert, make it ahead and freeze it. Certain casseroles can also be made in advance and frozen.
- 3). Clean only the areas of your home that your guests will see, according to Heloise, household hints guru, on the "Good Housekeeping" website. Don't waste time dusting or vacuuming areas that are out of the way to save time and energy.
- 4). Put plenty of fresh towels, toilet paper and soap in the bathroom for guests' convenience. Place a basket with various toiletries -- such as trial-size toothpaste, deodorant, hairspray, cotton swabs and adhesive bandages -- on the counter in case someone needs something.
- 5). Make the entrance -- indoors and out -- welcoming for your guests. Sweep the doorstep and sidewalk before they arrive. Place a flowering plant by the front door. Clean the glass on your door so that it's free of smudges.
- 6). Provide plenty of storage place for your guests to place their coats, bags and clothes. Clean out part of a closet if necessary. Make a place for guests to put their toiletries while in the bathroom so they don't have to struggle.
- 7). Place a working lamp and a clock on a bedside table for each guest's convenience.
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