If part of your holiday plans this year include opening your home to friends or family, having the guest room feel welcoming is a very important part of their stay.

Here are a few tips to help your house guests feel truly comfortable while staying with you during the holiday –

1~ Luggage Rack. Purchasing a luggage rack will provide your guests a proper place to put their suitcases during their stay. Having this in their room allows easy access to their things, keeping items off of the floor.

2~ Fresh Linens and Towels. Nothing feels better, after a long flight or road trip, like climbing into a bed with freshly washed sheets and blankets. There is no need to purchase new linens for their stay – just be sure to wash everything shortly before their arrival so that the bedding smells, and feels fresh and clean. Make sure to also provide extra blankets in case your guests get cold. Also wash all bath towels for a fresh, welcoming scent.

3~ Warm Beverages. Even if you are not a coffee drinker, make sure to have a large supply of gourmet coffee, tea and hot chocolate on hand for your guests. Most people enjoy relaxing with a warm beverage during the colder months. Also be sure to purchase creamers and other drink essentials and keep them accessible for your guests to use.

4~ Extra Amenities. Leave a basket in the guest room full of snacks, water bottles and magazines, for evening relaxation. You can also add a nicely scented candle for their guests enjoyment.

5~ Toiletries. While packing for travel, toiletries are often the forgotten, but essential items. Before your guests arrive, purchase some of the must-haves like toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, body wash, razors and Tylenol – and arrange them in a basket in the guest room or on the bathroom counter for easy access.

Opening your home during the holidays is always a special time for everyone. Make sure that your guests’ stay is a memorable one this year by going the extra mile before they arrive, preparing your home for the perfect visit.

Happy holidays.