Ensure your overnight guests receive a warm and fuzzy welcome this Christmas by focusing on sleeping arrangements that will guarantee a great night’s rest
Whether you can boast a beautifully appointed, dedicated guest bedroom, a pull-out sofa in the living room or a blow up mattress in a spare room – chances are that you’ll be planning to get your guest accommodation shipshape, ready for the festive season. With Christmas rolling around, now is the perfect time to review your current set-up and prepare for those pre-planned or casual drop-in overnighters.
If you’re not a regular at having guests stay over, getting organised now for your nearest and dearest, well before they rock up, holdall in hand, will pay dividends among all the other tasks on the Christmas to-do list. So, whatever your designated sleepover space, get to grips with the actionable basics now to ensure this area feels primed and ready for guests (or Santa’s arrival).
CLEAN UP
Step one is always streamlining – have a good old clear out by getting rid of surplus clutter and this will immediately make the room or area feel more inviting. If your guest accommodation has become a dumping ground, tackle it with trips to the charity shop, the tip or find an alternative store for anything you can’t part with. Next, blitz with a thorough dust and vacuum – open windows for a blast of fresh air. Dedicating time and energy to cleanliness is vital.
CHECK IN
Look at what you’re offering guests to use to sleep on. Is the mattress comfortable? Would a mattress topper or even a new mattress be a timely investment? If it’s not been used in a while, make sure you lay on the bed yourself (all in the name of research, obviously) to see if it’s still fit for purpose.
‘One of the nicest things you can offer your guest is a great night’s sleep,’ says Nichola Pass, marketing director for Sealy. ‘Invest in a mattress that will provide a snug and relaxing environment, and help your guests to drift off easily. You need a mattress that provides both comfort and support for the perfect sleeping environment.’
Next, turn your attention to the bedding – if it’s dated, consider a new set to instantly lift and refresh the scheme or be sure to wash the current one to give it a new lease of life and that coveted ‘just laundered’ scent. Spraying with a pillow mist once it’s back in place will give your guests senses another level of luxury. Air and plump-up pillows and dress with extra cushions for a boutique hotel vibe.
THE FINER DETAILS
Go further by checking lamps and lightbulbs are in working order, lay out designated face and bath towels, and, nearer the time, dress the side table with a small flower arrangement, drinking glass, even a handy phone charger. Turning your attention to these details will ensure a smooth visit with a
