Thanksgiving Is One Week Away: How Do I Get my Home Ready for my Guests?

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, your home is about to become the heart of the celebration, a place for family, friends, laughter, and, of course, incredible food. A little planning in the week leading up to the big day can make hosting smoother and much more enjoyable. Here’s a simple, stress-free guide to getting your home guest ready for Thanksgiving.

1. Do a quick safety and systems check

Before guests arrive, make sure your home’s essential systems are running properly. Test your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms, especially since your oven and stove will be in extra use. Check that all lightbulbs are working and that pathways, stairs, and entryways are well lit. If you have a fireplace, ensure it’s clean and safe to use. These small checks create a safe and welcoming environment.

2. Focus your cleaning where it matters most

You don’t need to deep clean every closet. Focus your energy on the rooms your guests will use the most: the kitchen, living room, dining area, and bathroom. Wipe down surfaces, vacuum or sweep floors, and clean mirrors and windows for a fresh look. If you’re short on time, a quick declutter and a good vacuum can make a world of difference.

3. Make your guest bathroom host-ready

Your guest bathroom will get a lot of attention. Stock it with extra toilet paper, fresh hand towels, soap, and a plunger (just in case). Add a small trash bag, a light air freshener, and, if you want to go the extra mile, a basket with travel-size toiletries for overnight guests.

4. Prep your kitchen for high-traffic cooking

Thanksgiving means cooking a lot of it. Empty and wipe down your refrigerator to make room for prepped dishes and groceries. Check that your trash and recycling bins are lined and ready. Make sure your dishwasher is empty and working properly. Having clean countertops and an organized kitchen will reduce stress on the big day.

5. Create a welcoming entrance

First impressions matter. Sweep your front porch and shake out door mats. Add a fall-inspired touch like a simple wreath, pumpkins, or a pot filled with pine and birch branches. Make room in your coat closet or set aside hooks and a bench so guests have a place for jackets and shoes.

6. Set up flexible seating areas

You don’t need matching chairs for everyone. Mix dining chairs, benches, and even sturdy stools to create enough seating. In the living room, add extra pillows or throws to make the space cozy and inviting for after-dinner conversations and football time.

7. Plan for comfort and flow

Think about how guests will move through your home. Clear pathways, move small furniture if needed, and consider where people will set down drinks or plates. A few extra side tables or trays can make things much more comfortable.

8. Don’t forget about you

Hosting shouldn’t feel overwhelming. The best part of Thanksgiving is being with the people you love. Make a simple plan, tackle one room at a time each day, and remember your guests are there for the memories, not a perfectly staged home.

With a little preparation and a lot of heart, your home will be the perfect setting for a warm and memorable Thanksgiving celebration.