Guests need a quiet refuge, especially older people who aren't used to being around rambunctious youngsters. (At least, not anymore.)
Here are 15 ways to ensure your overnight guest has a comfy, cozy stay in your home:
1 Welcome your guest with a freshly made bed.
Consider making up her bed using only a fitted sheet topped by a comforter, especially if your overnight guest has limited use of her hands (such as arthritis).The comforter or duvet (a removable, washable comforter cover) replaces the bedspread and top sheet. Its a cinch to make - just fluff and go.
2 Plump the pillow pickings.
Foam or down? Ask their preference in advance.
3 Arrange for extra blankets.
On my father's overnight visits, I place at least two extra throw blankets in his room. Since I've been doing this, he's ceased asking me whether I have the heat "hooked up".
4 Declutter the dresser.
Clear out a couple of drawers so your overnight guests can unpack.
5 Provide a bedside table and light.
Make sure the table is close to the bed so your guest can read before drifting off. A good rule of thumb: The base of the shade should be at least shoulder level while sitting up in bed.
No bedside table handy? A spare chair will do in a pinch. Just set a light on it, and your guest can hang her necklaces or robe on the back.
6 Overdeliver on tissues.
Allergies, colds, airplanes, climate changes; whatever the cause, make sure you have the solution in excess: plenty of boxes of tissues.
7 Serve up a bedside water carafe.
It doesn't need to be one of those fancy carafes with a glass that fits on top; even a water bottle will do and will be greatly appreciated by your traveler.
8 Clear a closet.
Make room for your visitor's clothes. Filled to the brim? Relocate some stuff for the weekend or week ahead. Be sure to stock the closet with hangers.
9 Make room for your guest to spread out.
Clear floors and shelves of your stuff to make room for hers.
10 Don't forget a trash can.
A basic, to be sure, but one that is often overlooked. No one likes others to see their personal trash. (And while you're at it, make sure there's a trash can in the guest bath, too.
11 Go for a blackout.
Window treatments that provide privacy and light control for quality (and quantity!) sleep always make for pleasant dreams.
12 Get an extra set of house keys for your guest, or perhaps a few for future guests.
Code each set by having the keys cut in different colors. Add car keys to the sets of those who might be driving while visiting. Keep a computer or written record of who has what color key set, and mark off when the sets are returned.
13 Be sure to share security instructions.
Have an alarm? Tell them about when it is on and when it is off and how they can tell on their own. Provide written instructions if your overnight guest will be turning the security system on and off, and if there is a a gate code or other security measures they'll need to know about in your home or neighborhood.
14 Provide a nightlight so your guest feels safe.
A small light helps guests not accustomed to the layout of the room or your home.
15 Clear a corner spot to store luggage in case your guest is the type who actually likes living out of a suitcase.
At least you tried, right?
When guests are coming, it's a great time to nurture the kids' natural tendency to please. Have them help ready your home for the guests, too. Your son can choose flowers from the garden for you to place in a bedside vase. Your daughter can create "welcome to our home" cards to leave on the dresser.
Mom, can I have a ____? It will eventually happen - if it hasn't already. Here's how to choose
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Sleepover Survival Guide
"Mom, can I have a sleepover?" These words strike fear into the hearts of parents everywhere. Here's the lowdown on what you need to know
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