It’s almost that season – the one where long-distance relatives make the trek to descend upon your home for several days. The season where you dust off your favourite board games that only see the light of day once a year, and reach that point in the day where you need to politely herd everyone outside for a much-needed blast of fresh air.
Sound familiar? If so, we’ve got some lovely tips to make hosting season a little easier, helping you create a cosy, welcoming guest space while keeping your sanity intact.
1. Spritz the space
Before your guests arrive, give your guest bedroom (or space) a thorough tidy. If you’re anything like me, your spare room probably doubles as a temporary dumping ground for all the things that “should go back into the loft… eventually.” Clear out anything that doesn’t belong, then give the space a good spritz: dust cobwebs, wipe surfaces, shine mirrors, and vacuum. A fresh, clean room instantly feels inviting.
2. Prepare the guest bed
Arguably the most important part of any stay is a restful night’s sleep. Make your guests’ bed as comfortable as possible so they wake up refreshed and happy.
Mattress toppers: If your spare mattress has seen better days, a natural wool mattress topper is a quick way to add extra comfort and support.
Duvets and pillows: There’s nothing worse than a wafer-thin duvet. Keep pillows and duvets fresh, plush, and comforting. Our wool and organic cotton inserts come in different weights, so you can pick the perfect combination for your guests.
Fresh bed linen: Dressing the bed in clean linen or cotton bedding makes a huge difference. Linen is thermoregulating – cool in summer, warm in winter – while our 200-thread-count cotton is smooth and soft. With plenty of colourways to choose from, you can easily match your guest room décor.
Add the finishing touches: Provide extra blankets and throws for warmth – wool for cosy snuggles, or cotton for added texture. Add a few cushions – you can go matchy with your bed linen, or opt for bold prints to stand-out.
3. Provide hanging space
If your guests are staying for more than one night, it’s thoughtful to offer somewhere to hang clothes so they don’t have to live out of a suitcase. A small rail is enough – no need for an entire wardrobe – but it's especially handy if guests have smart options to wear over the festive period.
4. Leave out fresh towels
Just like a freshly made bed, clean towels make guests feel cared for. Offer a couple of sizes – hand towels and bath sheets – so there’s no need to ask. If you want to be *extra*, try our towel folding hack for an instant spa-like touch.
5. It’s the little things
Sometimes guests forget a couple of essentials. A universal phone charger by the bedside is a simple but thoughtful touch. You could collect small hotel toiletries to offer shampoo and conditioner for their stay, or leave out a mini hand and body wash or hand cream for them to enjoy during their stay.
A carafe of water and glass by the bed, a pre-warmed hot water bottle on chilly nights, or a lightly scented candle on the bedside table can make the room feel instantly welcoming.
6. The wow factor
If you really want to impress your guests and make their stay even more comfortable, provide pyjamas, knitted socks or a robe in the room. It's an indulgent touch that will make guests feel super special.
For more inspiration, we’ve shared even more tips and ideas for hosting overnight guests – everything from cosy comforts to thoughtful comforts that make loved-ones feel right at home.
