Setting Up Your Guest Bed and Bath For The Holidays

We’ve been told the holiday season brings much joy to all. Unless, of course, you are the one hosting all the festivities at your house. In that case, the holidays can feel less joyful and more stressful. However, if you prepare your home in advance for your guests, you can avoid some of the holiday tension. In fact, you can set up a guest bed and bath which are so inviting and relaxing, even your most demanding relative will feel too good to complain.

In the Bathroom:

• Consider placing travel sized toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss and mouthwash on a small tray or coaster.
• Make a shower caddy for your guests. In order to economize, buy reusable travel sized bottles and fill with shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion you already own. Label the bottles with your guest’s name and contents. (Nobody wants to mistake conditioner for body lotion!) Add a washcloth or body pouf, bar of soap still in the packaging, and a disposable razor. Remember to customize your baskets for your male and female guests, or buy unscented products.
• Place a scent diffuser or flameless scented candle on the vanity.
• Place extra rolled towels in a basket. Your guests will appreciate not having to ask every time they need one.
• Remember to have a hamper in the bathroom for dirty towels. You could even provide each guest with a personalized laundry bag so their dirty laundry does not end up with yours.
• If your guests include children, consider placing a step-stool in front of the sink so they can easily reach the faucets.
• For an extra bit of luxury, provide your guests with a fluffy, white bathrobe.

In the Bedroom:

• Have extra pillows and blankets readily available for your guests in an armoire or cedar chest.
• Place books and magazines on the bedside tables with a pair of reading glasses.
• Have a folding luggage rack open near the closet.
• Consider putting an air purifier in the room for guests who have allergies.
• If your guests are unfamiliar with the city, provide them a map labeled with all your favorite restaurants, shops and tourist destinations. Your local Convention and Visitors Bureau can provide you with brochures, as well.
• Consider setting up a minibar. You can hide a small refrigerator in a cabinet, and stock it with water, soda, fruit and snacks. Place  a single serve hot beverage maker like a Tassimo or Keurig on top of it. You can then place an assortment of coffee, hot chocolate and teas in a basket or on a tray next to it. Your guests will appreciate not having to go to the kitchen in middle of the night when they want a glass of water or cup of tea.
• If you are decorating your first guest room, buy two twin sized beds which can be pushed together for couples or separated for friends or children.

With just a few personal touches, your guests will feel as though they were staying in five-star hotel.