The holiday season is all about welcoming friends and family into your home, and the best gatherings start with a space that feels warm, clean, and ready for celebration. Whether you’re hosting overnight guests or prepping for an evening of entertaining, a little strategic cleaning can make your home look and feel its best.

Here are five key areas to give attention to before your friends and family arrive: 

1. Create a Welcoming Entryway 

First impressions really do matter, and your entryway sets the first impression of your home. Clear the clutter, sweep or vacuum floors, and wipe down surfaces where dust tends to gather. Add hooks or baskets to corral coats and shoes and consider placing a festive but functional doormat to help keep winter debris from tracking inside. 

2. Give Bathrooms a Quick Refresh 

It probably goes without saying that a clean bathroom is a must-do when welcoming people into your home.  Before guests arrive, give your bathroom a detailed refresh. Scrub sinks, counters, mirrors, and toilets; replace used towels with clean ones; and ensure extra essentials like toilet paper and hand soap are stocked. If you have a dedicated guest bath, consider adding small comforts such as hand lotion or a seasonal candle as a thoughtful, welcoming touch. 

3. Prepare Guest Rooms with Comfort in Mind 

If guests are staying overnight, prepare the guest room as you would a hotel suite, including a quick cleaning, fresh sheets, a bedside table, and space for luggage. Provide extra blankets and pillows and add a small basket of toiletries as a thoughtful touch in case anything was forgotten at home. Be sure to set out fresh towels and make sure guests know where to find Wi-Fi info and late-night essentials.  

4. Refresh High-Traffic Living Areas 

Oftentimes the living room or great room see the most activity during the holidays. Since these areas are the heart of holiday celebrations, make sure they are not only clean and neat, but also feel warm and inviting. These areas are where memories are made, so a little extra attention can set the stage for quality time. 

5. Get the Kitchen Guest-Ready 

No matter how hard you try, the party oftentimes ends up in the kitchen! Your kitchen is always the heart of your home and even more so during the holidays. Prepping can help you enjoy the day without scrambling for essentials mid-celebration. Wipe down counters, clean appliances, and keep caught up on cleaning dishes as you prepare. Organize the fridge to make room for party trays and leftovers. If you’re hosting a meal, take a moment to arrange serving essentials—platters, utensils, and glassware—so everything is ready when guests arrive. 

A Warm Finishing Touch 

Once everything is refreshed, turn on a few soft lights, bring out your favorite seasonal décor, and take a moment to enjoy the cozy atmosphere you’ve created. The holidays are about connection, and a thoughtfully prepared home helps make those moments even more special.