by Staff

Summer’s almost here, and if your calendar is filling up with visits from family or friends, you’re not alone. Hosting people in your home can be fun, but it also takes a little effort. You want your space to feel clean, inviting, and ready—without having to scramble the night before guests arrive.

In Portland, summer is something special. The weather warms up, the parks fill with people, and the city really comes alive. Whether you’re planning backyard dinners, weekend hikes, or just hanging out on the patio, summer visitors tend to show up right when the good weather does.

That’s why getting your home guest-ready now can save you some last-minute stress later. A few small updates can help your visitors feel more comfortable—and make you feel more relaxed too.

1. Start with the Bathroom

Your guests might not say it out loud, but they’ll definitely notice the bathroom. It’s one of the first places people visit after a long trip, and it can leave a lasting impression. So, make sure it’s not just clean—but stocked and functional too.

Start with the basics: fresh towels, extra toilet paper, and clean surfaces. Check that everything works as it should—no leaky faucets, slow drains, or broken lightbulbs. A clean shower curtain and a working fan can make a big difference, especially during warmer months.

If your bathroom feels outdated or just isn’t in great shape, you don’t have to do a full gut job. Even small upgrades like a new mirror or better lighting can help. But if you’re thinking about remodeling ahead of summer, the Bath Center of Portland offers quick and professional bathroom renovations that can give your space a fresh, modern look. They even specialize in one-day remodels, which is perfect if you’re on a tight schedule.

Don’t forget to leave a few guest essentials on the counter or in a small basket—travel-size shampoo, toothpaste, a razor, and maybe even a spare toothbrush. Your visitors will appreciate not having to ask.

2. Refresh the Guest Bedroom (Or Create One)

Not everyone has a spare bedroom, and that’s totally fine. Whether your guests are staying in a home office, a basement, or a sectioned-off part of the living room, you can still create a cozy sleep space with just a few touches.

Start by clearing out personal items or work clutter to make the area feel welcoming. Add clean bedding, an extra blanket, and a couple of pillows. A fan or portable air conditioner can help keep the room cool during warm nights. If you don’t have space for a full dresser, offer a small drawer or suitcase stand so guests aren’t living out of their bags.

Add thoughtful extras like a phone charger, nightlight, or bottle of water on the nightstand. These small details make a temporary space feel more like home.

3. Deep Clean the High-Traffic Areas

The living room, kitchen, and entryway are where your guests will spend most of their time, so these areas deserve a little attention. You don’t need to scrub everything from top to bottom, but a good surface-level clean can make a big difference.

Dust the shelves, vacuum or mop the floors, and wipe down counters, switches, and door handles. Put away things you won’t use while guests are over, like paperwork, personal mail, or extra decor. Decluttering creates space for people to relax and settle in.

Clean out your fridge and pantry, especially if your guests will be staying for a few days. Make room for their snacks or groceries and toss anything expired.

4. Stock Up on the Essentials

Guests don’t always remember to pack everything, so it helps to keep a few extras on hand. Think: toothbrushes, travel-size lotion, disposable razors, and sunscreen. You can even create a small welcome basket with items they might need during their stay.

If your guests are coming from out of town, include some local snacks, a map, or a note with helpful info like the Wi-Fi password or how to use your coffee maker. A handwritten note adds a personal touch.

It’s also a good idea to stock up on household supplies—extra toilet paper, laundry detergent, paper towels, and trash bags. That way, no one has to make a last-minute store run.

5. Tidy Up the Outdoor Space

Summer is the season for patio dinners, iced drinks, and outdoor chats. Even if you don’t have a big backyard, a small porch or balcony can become a great hangout space with a little effort.

Sweep up debris, wipe down furniture, and check that your lighting works. If you’re using a grill, make sure it’s clean and ready. Add a few fresh plants or potted flowers to bring life to the space.

Don’t have enough seating? Folding chairs or large outdoor cushions work just fine. Even a picnic blanket can create a relaxed outdoor vibe for casual summer gatherings.

6. Prep for Comfort and Flexibility

Guests come with different sleep schedules, routines, and preferences. Some like to stay up late, others rise early. The more flexible and accommodating your home feels, the better.

Offer blackout curtains or eye masks for light sleepers. Set up a fan or heater, depending on the weather. If you’re hosting multiple guests, give them options for quiet spots around the house, especially if they need downtime.

You can also create a mini coffee or tea station in the kitchen. Set out mugs, filters, and a few drink choices so guests can help themselves in the morning. It saves them from asking questions before they’ve had their caffeine fix.

Getting ready for summer guests doesn’t have to be complicated. When you take the time to clean, prepare, and personalize your space, it sets the tone for a comfortable, enjoyable visit. You don’t need to do everything perfectly. Focus on the small touches that make your home feel warm and welcoming.

At the end of the day, your guests are coming to spend time with you—not judge your house. So, take a breath, prep a little, and enjoy the season together.

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