One of the joys of being a homeowner is being able to host friends and family overnight or for a longer visit. Make their visit one they’ll cherish — and look forward to again in the future — by sprucing up your guest’s sleeping quarters.
Add some luxurious upgrades
It doesn’t take a lot of work or money to make the space feel extravagant. An easy way to do this is to light a candle on the nightstand that provides a soothing aroma. A potted plant can also brighten up the space while freshening up the air. The staff at Impression Homes recommends hanging a plush bathrobe near the bed for your visitor to use. “By giving your guests their own, you allow them to travel to and from the bathroom and out of their rooms in the morning without having to get fully dressed.” Along with the robe, you can supply slippers and a stash of spa items they may use, including a facial mask, lotion, and essential oils.
Focus on quality sleep
A good night’s rest is essential for your guest’s happiness — and your own as the host! Do what you can to make the bed itself comfortable, adding a mattress topper or a foam support pad if they plan on sleeping on a sleeper sofa. That goes for the pillows, too. Don’t give your guest a four-dollar pillow from the discount store that’s too flimsy to provide any head support. Keep your eyes peeled for a sale on quality memory-foam pillows. Cover the bed with a comforter and throw pillows, and keep extra blankets at the foot. “Some people get hot easily, some people get cold easily. Provide extra blankets for those who need to layer up to stay warm,” recommends H. Camille Smith of HGTV.
Increase the convenience
Make sure you provide your guests with any information they may need so they don’t have to bother asking you after turning in for the night. For instance, Smith points out how helpful it is to display the Wi-Fi network and password near the bed. “Save guests from asking this crucial question by printing the info onto card stock and framing it.” Give your guest a spare key or the passcode to reenter the house if they intend to come and go at their leisure.
Personalize the space
Make your visitor feel at home by adding personalized touches that will make them feel special. Keep a small frame on the nightstand where you can add a photo of yourself with your guest when you shared a memorable moment together. Leave their favorite snack on the nightstand or beverage in a nearby mini-fridge. Write a personalized message for them to find — next to a guest book for them to leave you a message in return!
Set a nightstand within reach
Give your guest a surface nearby where they can set a cup of water, book, or phone while they sleep. Provide some light reading material such as a magazine, comic book, or collection of short stories. Have a lamp on the nightstand or near the bed. “It's always helpful to have a light control near the bed so your guest won't have to stumble around in the dark just to turn a light on. If nothing else, provide a good reading light near a chair or over the bed,” advises Coral Nafie of The Spruce.
You don’t need a lot of space to make your guest’s visit a welcoming experience; you just need to utilize the space you have in creative, thoughtful ways.