How To Get Your Bathroom Ready for Houseguests

published Nov 12, 2015
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
Post Image
(Image credit: Nancy Mitchell)

Whether you have one shared bathroom in your place or a half a dozen, when you’re hosting for the holidays you want to get those spaces ready for houseguests as soon as possible. We’ve put together a totally doable, slow-paced two-week plan that will have you clean, ready and–most importantly–relaxed.

The time frames are just a guideline, of course. You can get these five steps done in any order and on any timeline before your guests arrive.

2 Weeks Before: Load in Extra Linens

Now’s the time to take stock of your towels and make sure you have enough for everyone who’ll be visiting over the holidays. Retailer Matouk recommends two bath and hand towels for each guest, plus two washcloths daily.

1 Week Before: Deep Clean

Start with a clean slate and everything else comes easy.

→ Cleaning Checklist: A Step by Step Plan for a Truly Clean & Organized Bathroom in an Hour or Two

3 Days Before: Stock Up on Toiletries

No need to buy tiny little shampoo bottles–nobody’s expecting your basement to feel like the Four Seasons. But as a guest, it’s nice when hosts think ahead to keep some products in the bathroom to use (especially if my 3-ounce bottles and I have flown in). Buy some store-brand basics–toothpaste, body wash, shampoo, conditioner–and make sure there’s plenty of toilet paper.

1 Day Before: Give Them Some Space

Literally. If your bathroom has a counter or shelves, ensure there’s enough space left open for guests to spread out some of their own primping supplies and feel right at home.

Last Step: Freshen Up

Give the bathroom a little clean refresh–wipe down the mirror and scrub the commode–right before guests arrive.