How to Prep the House for Last-Minute Holiday Guests

The holidays are a magical time, especially here in Fort Worth and the Mid Cities, but they can catch us off guard—especially when it comes to surprise guests. Whether it’s your cousin swinging by from out of state or neighbors stopping in to drop off cookies, it’s always nice to have your home guest-ready. But what do you do when you’re short on time and long on to-dos?

As a small business owner in the professional cleaning industry, I’ve worked with hundreds of families across North Texas who face that exact challenge. Today, I’m sharing trusted tips to help you get your home looking warm, welcoming, and well-maintained—fast. With a bit of strategy and the right mindset, you can prep your home for guests without the stress.

1. Focus on High-Impact Areas

When you’re short on time, don’t try to deep clean the entire house. Instead, focus your energy on the places your guests are most likely to see and use. These spots typically include:

• Entryway: Sweep the porch, shake out the welcome mat, and clear clutter like shoes and bags.
• Living Room: Fluff the couch cushions, dust coffee tables, and stash personal items that may be out of place.
• Guest Bathroom: This one’s a must. Wipe down the sink and toilet, empty the trash, replace the hand towel, and restock toilet paper and soap.
• Kitchen: Clear the countertops, wipe surfaces, and make sure the sink is emptied and clean.

Remember, it’s the overall impression that matters most—not perfection.

2. Create a Quick-Clean Checklist

One of the best tools for last-minute cleaning is a solid quick-clean checklist. This helps you stay on track and avoid wasting precious time. Here’s a simplified version our team at Maid Brigade Fort Worth often recommends:

• Set a timer for 10–15 minutes per area
• Declutter visible surfaces first
• Dust everything you can see (start high and work down)
• Vacuum or sweep main walkways
• Wipe down light switches and door handles (a nice touch for both cleanliness and health)
• Empty all small trash bins

If you’d like to dive deeper into the importance of disinfecting high-touch areas, the CDC has a helpful guide that’s worth reviewing.

3. Use Lighting and Scent to Your Advantage

Great lighting and a cozy scent go a long way in making your home feel inviting, even if you haven’t deep cleaned every nook and cranny.

• Soft lighting: Flip on a few lamps and put overhead lights on dim (if possible). Natural light is always a win—open up those curtains if you can.
• Scents: Simmer a pot of apple cider with cinnamon on the stove, or light a seasonal candle in the main area. Just don’t overdo it—keep it subtle and pleasant.

4. Quick Guest Room Touch-Ups

If you have overnight guests, make sure their space feels intentional, even without a full cleaning.

• Change the bedding or at least fluff and smooth it out
• Clear a drawer or closet space for belongings
• Place a bottle of water and a small dish for keys/glasses by the bed
• Add a holiday touch—maybe a sprig of greenery or a festive pillow

These small gestures make a big difference and leave guests feeling cared for.

5. Get Help When You Can

If you find yourself overwhelmed with too many to-dos before guests arrive, don’t be afraid to delegate. Whether it’s your partner helping with the dusting or calling in the pros, you deserve support.

At Maid Brigade Fort Worth, we offer quick-turnaround cleanings to help you get that guest-ready home without lifting a finger. From same-week service to seasonal deep cleans, we’re proud to serve families across Fort Worth, Arlington, Hurst, Euless, Bedford, and beyond.

6. Stash, Don’t Stress

Sometimes, strategic stashing is your best last-minute option. If your family room is full of laundry or the kitchen table is buried in paperwork, put it in a laundry basket and hide it in a closet or bedroom.

Just remember where you put it! After guests leave, give yourself a moment to relocate and organize those items properly so your home doesn’t end up more cluttered later.

7. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

It’s worth repeating: your home doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to feel welcoming. If your guests arrive and there are a few dishes in the sink or a dog toy under the coffee table, they won’t care. What they’ll remember is how your home felt and the warmth of your hospitality.

Let Us Help You Feel Holiday-Ready

Getting your home ready for last-minute holiday guests doesn’t have to be stressful. By focusing on key areas, using a quick-clean plan, and inviting in that cozy holiday vibe, you can create a joyful space that’s perfect for sharing good company.

And if you need a little help getting things across the finish line, we’re just around the corner. We’re local, we get it, and we’re here to help. Learn more about our house cleaning services today—from quick cleanings to full-service options, we’ve got something for every home and every need.

Let our friendly team take one thing off your plate so you can enjoy your guests this holiday season. Get an instant quote online, book your first service or reach out to our friendly team today to get started.