Is Your Home Ready for All Your Guests?

The changing seasons tell us the holiday season is coming. That means one thing: visitors! Whether you are welcoming family for the holidays, hosting friends for dinner, or preparing for overnight guests, your home’s setup can make a big difference in everyone’s comfort, health, and safety. Here are a few ways to prepare your home to be safe, comfortable, and healthy for everyone who walks through the door.

1. Clear the Way

Before your guests arrive, take a quick walk through your home with safety in mind. These small adjustments can prevent falls and make moving around easier for guests of all ages and abilities.

• Remove clutter and trip hazards from hallways and entryways including extension cords, low height tables, and shoes.
• Secure rugs or remove them entirely.
• Check that stairways and porches are well-lit.
• Make sure railings are sturdy.
• If anyone uses mobility aids, make sure pathways are wide and unobstructed.

2. Make Comfort a Priority

A few extra considerations can make your guests feel at home and let them focus on the holiday spirit rather than how to make it through the next few hours.

• Have the WiFi password somewhere visible.
• Keep indoor temperatures comfortable—consider layering blankets instead of turning up the heat. It can get warm quickly with many people.
• Offer supportive chairs or seating options that are easy to get in and out of.
• If you have overnight guests, ensure beds and pillows are clean, supportive, and allergen-free.
• Consider adding a non-slip mat or grab bar in bathrooms.

3. Support Healthy Habits

Hosting does not have to mean abandoning wellness routines. A good time does not have to equal a “cheat day,” and no one has to feel left out just because of their health needs.

• Offer nutritious snack options like fruit, nuts, or yogurt.
• Plan group activities that get everyone moving—a walk after dinner, stretching together, or a lighthearted dance party.
• Keep water available and visible to encourage hydration.

4. Protect Your Own Well-Being

It is easy to get caught up in caring for guests and forget about the most important person: the host!

• Prioritize sleep and take breaks when needed. 
• Ask for help with meal prep or cleanup.
• Set realistic expectations—your guests are there to enjoy your company, not perfection.

Make Your House a Home for All Your Guests

A welcoming home is one that feels safe, calm, and healthy for everyone inside it, including you. With a few small adjustments, you can create an environment that supports physical comfort, emotional well-being, and joyful connection all season long. Whether you are hosting one guest or a house full, remember the heart of hospitality is about care. So this year, try a few of these tips to really let your hosting heart shine. For more tips on how to make the holidays and every day healthier, safer, and more enjoyable, check out our services to see which is right for you!

Resource

1. Your Checklist for Quick Houseguest Prep. (2024). Houzz. https://www.houzz.com/magazine/your-checklist-for-quick-houseguest-prep-stsetivw-vs~56983429