5 Things Your Houseguests Won't Tell You
From temperature to food to a good night's sleep, we've got you covered.
Everyone wants to be the gracious and welcoming host who makes their guests feel right at home, and part of that is anticipating situations that can leave them feeling slightly uncomfortable. Here are five things your guests may be thinking, but are too polite to tell you—and how to remedy these minor problems before they arise.
1. "Your House Feels Like a Freezer"
Design: Chango & Co.
https://www.wayfair.com/shop-the-look/slp/15-park-slope-brownstone-family-room-detail-by-chango-co--photo-id204471
Or, on the flip side, like a sauna. Keep your guests cozy and set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature. And remember, more guests means a hotter house.
For a large house party, we recommend 65 degrees F during the event. For overnight guests, ask them if they prefer to be warm or cool, and tailor your thermostat to a middle ground between your desired temperature and theirs.
Tip!
Warm up guests with a hot drink. Check out our take on a Cabin-Inspired Hot Cocoa Bar.
Design: Veneer Designs
https://www.wayfair.com/shop-the-look/slp/img-21--photo-id221665
Keep in mind that guests may not share the same love for your dog, or any pet, that you do. Gather your pet's favorite toys, a comfy bed, food, and water, and corral them into a designated room.
Pet-loving guests can visit your furry friend if they want, while others can steer clear. If you're hosting overnight guests, wash all the linens in their room if your pet likes to cuddle up there. Also, give the common rooms a once-over with a pet odor-eliminating spray.
Tip!
A safety gate is a great way to keep your pet away from guests, but still involved in the action.
Party guests will save their appetite for your delicious food, so be prepared for them to walk through your door hungry. To avoid the dreaded "hangry" guest, have appetizers ready in advance. An easy self-serve slow cooker recipe will hold over even the hungriest of guests, while others munch on crackers and cheese.
For those spending the night, place snacks (granola bars, sweets, etc.) in a welcome basket and let them help themselves to your pantry or a designated snack drawer at any time.
Tip!
When hosting a dinner party, schedule cooking time for each dish. If you're running behind, warn guests before they arrive.
Design: Chango & Co.
https://www.wayfair.com/shop-the-look/slp/--photo-id213155
Would you sleep on your own guest bed? If the answer is no, then odds are your guest feels the same way.
Start with clean sheets, plush pillows, and a cozy comforter. Allow your guests to create layers of warmth and comfort with extra throws—a heated blanket would be going above and beyond. Leave a fan on the nightstand for guests who like to sleep with white noise.
Tip!
Make sure your guest has every comfort that they need to fall asleep. Consider crafting a guest basket that contains extra makeup wipes, razors, and moisturizer. They will feel right at home!
Design: Julia Goodwin Design
https://www.wayfair.com/shop-the-look/slp/cow-hollow-project-master-bathroom--photo-id221589
Treat guests to a five-star hotel experience by preparing your bathroom for their every need.
Before their arrival, make sure your bathroom has fresh linens, a new bar of soap, and plenty of toilet paper. Let guests know where these necessities are and where to find extras if needed. Go the extra mile and put out travel-sized toiletries (from toothpaste to shampoo) in case they forgot.
Tip!
Display cotton swabs and other bathroom essentials for your guests in clear glass canisters.
