The Ultimate Cleaning Guide Before Visitors

We’ve all been there; you have friends or family coming over, and you suddenly realise your home isn’t quite “guest-ready.” Don’t panic! With this ultimate cleaning guide, you can whip your place into shape quickly, efficiently, and stress-free. It’s all about knowing which areas to focus on and having a clear plan of attack.

Here’s how to get your home sparkling without breaking a sweat.

Declutter Strategically

Clutter can make your space look messier than it actually is. Before you start deep cleaning, do a quick declutter:

• CLEAR SURFACES: Take a few minutes to remove any unnecessary items from countertops, tables, and entryways. Find a temporary home for anything that doesn’t belong, you can deal with that another day.

• QUICK BASKET METHOD: If you’re short on time, grab a basket or box and chuck in items that need to be organised later. Tuck it away in a cupboard for now and deal with it after your guests leave.

• HIDE OR ORGANISE SHOES AND JACKETS: If your entrance tends to get cluttered, straighten up or stash away shoes and jackets because no matter how well you try tidying them, they always look messy. This creates an instant feeling of tidiness!

Prioritise High-Traffic Areas

Let’s be honest, you don’t need to deep-clean every corner of your home before guests arrive, so focus on the places they’re most likely to spend time in. This typically includes the living room, dining area, bathroom, and possibly the kitchen.

• LIVING ROOM: Straighten up any clutter, fluff the cushions, and give the floor a quick hoover or sweep. Don’t forget to dust surfaces like coffee tables and shelves. If you have time, wipe down any glass or mirrors to give the room an extra gleam. I tend to get carried away at this point and start to dust everything in sight but remember, people aren't going to look that closely.

• BATHROOM: A clean bathroom is a must. Wipe down the sink, mirror, and toilet, and check to make sure the shower/bath is clean, give that a quick rinse if needs be. Stock up on essentials like hand soap, fresh towels, and toilet paper. If time is tight, a quick scrub of the toilet and sink will make a huge difference, and I always think a shiny tap adds the finishing touch.

• KITCHEN & DINING AREA: Clear any surfaces like countertops and tables. A clear, wiped-down kitchen feels inviting, even if you aren’t cooking! Empty the bin, and if the sink is filled with dishes, pop them into the dishwasher or hand wash what’s necessary, it really doesn't take as long as you think.

Pay Attention to Details

The little things can make a big difference. Here are a few details that will help your home look polished:

• FRESHEN THE AIR: Open a window for a few minutes to let in some fresh air. Light a scented candle or use a candle warmer for a welcoming scent. I also like to pour some disinfectant down the sinks, for the additional clean scent.

• TIDY THE GUEST AREA: If guests will be staying overnight, make sure their room or sleeping area is clean and comfortable. Fresh sheets, a tidy bed and a clean floor are the essentials.

• WIPE DOWN COMMON TOUCH POINTS: Door handles, light switches, and remote controls often get overlooked. A quick wipe with a disinfectant can help create a more sanitary environment.

Make It Cosy

A clean home is one thing, but a cosy, inviting atmosphere is what really makes guests feel welcome. Here are some quick ways to achieve that:

• FLUFF CUSHIONS AND THROWS: Straighten your throw blankets and fluff the cushions on your sofa. Small touches like these create a more polished look.

• ADJUST LIGHTING: Soft, warm lighting is more inviting than harsh overhead lights. Turn on lamps, light some candles, or use string lights to create a relaxing ambience.

• ADD GREENERY: Fresh flowers or a few potted plants can breathe life into any space and make it feel more vibrant.

Final 15-Minute Speed Clean

When you’re pressed for time and your guests are almost on their way, here’s a quick 15-minute speed-clean routine to polish off the essentials:

• FLOORS: Give your main areas a quick hoover or sweep. Clean floors instantly make a home feel cleaner.

• WIPE DOWN SURFACES: Quickly dust or wipe down visible surfaces in your living room, dining room, and bathroom.

• FINAL TOUCHES: Fluff up pillows, adjust furniture, and straighten out any last-minute clutter. Light candles, spritz some air freshener and make sure everything looks guest-ready.

Even after all the cleaning, don’t forget to relax and enjoy hosting! Turn on some calming background music, brew a fresh pot of coffee or tea, and most importantly, breathe. A warm, welcoming atmosphere is often more important than perfection

Prepping your home for visitors doesn’t have to be stressful or overwhelming. By following these simple steps and focusing on key areas, you’ll be able to clean effectively and still have time to enjoy your guests when they arrive. So take a deep breath, tidy up, and get ready to host with confidence!