Holiday Houseguests Coming? Get the Guest Space Ready Now

Thanksgiving is just over two weeks away, and for many families that means a full house: parents flying in, cousins on the couch, friends staying the long weekend. The good news is that a comfortable guest space doesn't need a remodel. A little planning now, before the cooking and shopping take over, makes your visitors feel at home from the moment they drop their bags.

Start with a quick walk-through

Spend ten minutes in the room (or corner of the living room) where guests will sleep, and look at it the way a visitor would.

• Clear a surface for a suitcase and a spot for phones and glasses at night.
• Empty a drawer or a few hangers so guests aren't living out of a bag.
• Check that there's a lamp or night light within reach of the bed.
• Wash the spare sheets now so they're fresh and ready to go.

Layer in warmth for chilly nights

November nights get cold, and guest rooms are often the draftiest room in the house. An extra throw folded at the foot of the bed or over the arm of the sofa lets guests warm up without having to ask.

Our Tortilla Burrito Flannel Fleece Throw Blanket is a fun pick here. It works as a sofa blanket, bed blanket or travel blanket, comes in several sizes for kids and adults, and is machine washable on a gentle cold cycle. It also tends to get a laugh, which is a nice icebreaker when the whole family is together.

Set up a simple bathroom kit

Guests often feel awkward asking for basics, so put them out ahead of time.

• A small basket with travel-size toiletries, a spare toothbrush and a few hair ties.
• A clearly marked set of towels just for guests.
• An empty hook or two for hanging towels to dry.

For a little spa-like touch, add a Luxury Microfiber Bath Towel Wrap. It's made from soft, quick-absorbing microfiber, has an elastic band with adjustable buttons so it stays put, and is machine washable, so it's easy to refresh between visitors.

Think about floors and feet

Cold floors, wet bathroom tile and a busy kitchen make house footwear a thoughtful extra. Keep a pair or two of slippers by the guest bed or the front door.

The Convertible Winter vs Summer Slides Slippers come with winter socks for cooler months, have a non-slip sole, and are lightweight and easy to clean. They're made for indoor use around the bedroom, bathroom and living room.

Finish with the small welcome touches

• Write the Wi-Fi name and password on a card by the bed.
• Leave a water bottle or glass and a few snacks for late arrivals.
• Share the plan for the week: meal times, who's cooking and when the house wakes up.

Get these done this week and you'll be free to focus on the food and the company when everyone arrives. Browse the VIGOR collection for more simple home essentials to make your holiday hosting easier.