Holiday Hosting Checklist

Getting Started with Holiday Cleaning

Once the decorations are up, it’s time to start planning for holiday entertaining. Getting your home prepared for holiday visitors by decking the halls and trimming the tree is fun and exciting. However, it can also be overwhelming and stressful if you feel like you’re unprepared to host such holiday festivities.

As our gift to you, we’ve put together a holiday hosting checklist to guide you through getting each room of your home holiday-ready so you can relax, entertain, and enjoy the holidays. To get your home in top shape for the holiday season, follow these essential holiday cleaning tips:

1. Start with Decluttering: Begin by clearing out any clutter in your rooms. This means picking up, discarding, and organizing items that are out of place. Removing excess items from floors and furniture will make your holiday cleaning more efficient and thorough.
2. Clean from Top to Bottom: For a sparkling home, clean high areas first and work your way down. Dust ceiling fans, high light fixtures, and clean furniture before addressing lower areas like floors and countertops. Don’t forget to pay special attention to baseboards, window sills, and glass surfaces.
3. Prioritize high-traffic areas: Focus your energy on rooms where guests will gather the most—living rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms. For overnight guests, make sure toiletries and bedding are clean, well-stocked, and easily accessible.
4. Create Cozy Holiday Spaces: Make your home inviting for guests by adding soft blankets, comfy pillows, and candles. Creating warm, cozy spots will enhance the holiday atmosphere and make your home feel extra welcoming.
5. Stock Up on Holiday Essentials: Ensure you have all the necessary items for hosting, such as snacks, beverages, and remember basics like paper towels and napkins, too.

By following these holiday cleaning tips, you’ll ensure your home is clean, organized, and ready to welcome family and friends throughout the festive season. See our detailed checklists for all areas of your home!

Getting Your Home Cleaned for the Holiday Season

As you prepare your home for holiday guests, remember to always prioritize cleaning areas. For example, your entryway is the first area your guests see upon arrival. Make sure it’s tidy, dusted, and organized. Adding a poinsettia is also a nice way to greet guests and get them into the holiday spirit.

Here are some additional tips to help you get specific areas of your home ready for holiday guests:

Holiday Cleaning for Entryways: Make a Great First Impression

The entryway is the first space your guests will see once they enter your home, so make sure it's inviting and clutter-free. A clean, organized entry sets the tone for the rest of your home and guarantees your guests have a welcoming arrival.

• Pick up and store shoes, umbrellas, coats, and any clutter.
• Designate a space in the closet or elsewhere for guests' coats, boots, and shoes.
• Wipe down walls, doors, and baseboards to remove scuffs and marks.
• Clean windows, glass doors, and any mirrors in the entryway.
• Shake-out or wash any entryway mats or rugs
• Clear walkways and entryways of leaves, snow, or ice

Living Room Holiday Cleaning: Create a Cozy, Festive Space

Your living room will likely be a central gathering spot for holiday festivities. You want to make sure it's neat, comfortable, and ready for guests to relax. A clean, organized living space brings out the festive atmosphere and makes everyone feel at home.

• Pick up clutter, organize loose items, and donate anything unused for 6-8 months.
• Vacuum carpets (treat stains) and clean wood or tile floors.
• Dust and polish furniture, shelves, and decorative items.
• Vacuum fabric furniture, wash throw pillows and blankets, and fluff sofa cushions.
• Declutter and organize books, magazines, and other items.
• Neatly fold and store throw blankets after washing.

Holiday-Ready Kitchen: Deep Clean for Seasonal Cooking

Since the kitchen will be a hub of activity during holiday gatherings, focus on keeping it clean, organized, and guest-friendly. A decluttered kitchen ensures that meal prep and hosting go smoothly, while creating space for guests to help themselves to food and beverages.

• Declutter and sanitize countertops to maintain a clean prep space.
• Clean the cooktop, soaking stove grates and knobs to remove residue.
• Replace kitchen hand towels and ensure paper towels are readily available.
• Make room in the refrigerator for guests' snacks, drinks, and leftovers.
• Wipe down appliances and remove any stains and fingerprints.
• Deep clean sinks and polish fixtures, and don’t forget to clean the inside of your trash bin!

Bathroom Holiday Prep: Sparkling Clean for Seasonal Visitors

Guest bathrooms should be spotless and fully stocked with essentials. A clean bathroom makes guests feel comfortable and ensures they have every basic need covered.

• Clear personal products from the vanity and cabinets and declutter countertops.
• Supply fresh bath and hand towels.
• Refill the soap dispenser and provide extra toiletries like toothpaste and shampoo.
• Ensure toilet paper is well-stocked and accessible.
• Place a nightlight in the bathroom for easy nighttime navigation.
• Provide a blow dryer for overnight guests or make one easily accessible.
• Ensure the shower and toilet are sparkling clean, and don't forget to empty the trash.

Dining Room Holiday Refresh: Clean and Ready for Celebrations

The dining room is where guests will gather for meals. A tidy, polished dining area creates a warm and welcoming space for entertaining and holiday dinners.

• Wipe down and polish the dining table and chairs, dust shelves and cabinets.
• Dust and polish light fixtures and any other decorative surfaces
• Vacuum or mop the floor, depending on the material.
• Polish any silverware and wash table linens in preparation.
• Clean windows and light fixtures to help brighten the room.
• Set the table or have a tablecloth ready for a last-minute setup.

Bedroom Holiday Cleaning: Create a Cozy, Guest-Ready Space

For overnight guests, bedrooms should be clean, cozy, and welcoming. Prepare the space with fresh linens and thoughtful touches to ensure guests feel at home.

• Change bed linens and ensure pillows and blankets are clean and fresh.
• Clear out closet space or a dresser for guests' clothing and belongings.
• Dust and wipe down surfaces, including windows, dressers and nightstands.
• Vacuum or mop the floors, ensuring the room is dust-free.
• Set out extra blankets and pillows for comfort.
• Set out a nightstand with an alarm clock, water, and reading materials for an extra welcoming touch

Outdoor Holiday Cleanup: Ensure a Tidy Entrance for Festivities

Outdoor spaces, especially entryways and patios, should be clear of clutter for guests to navigate. A tidy outdoor area also extends the holiday cheer beyond your home’s interior.

• Sweep patios, decks, walkways, and your driveways to remove debris or snow.
• Clean outdoor furniture and arrange seating if the weather allows.
• Check outdoor lighting and replace any burned-out bulbs.
• Hang or refresh outdoor holiday decorations.