Overnight guests checklist
Get your home ready for overnight guests: sleeping space, bathroom essentials, arrival details and a simple breakfast plan.

AGREE ON THE VISIT
- Confirm the arrival and departure dates and approximate times
- Ask how many people are staying and what sleeping arrangements they need
- Ask about food allergies, dietary needs and accessibility requirements
- Check whether guests are bringing children or pets
- Share your address, directions and parking or public transport details
- Explain any stairs, pets or other household details guests should know about

PREPARE THE SLEEPING SPACE
- Put fresh sheets and pillowcases on the bed or sofa bed
- Check that an air mattress holds air if you are using one
- Leave a spare blanket within reach
- Clear space for a bag and a few clothes
- Provide a bedside light or show guests where the light switch is
- Make a reachable power socket available
- Check that curtains or blinds close properly
- Explain how to adjust heating, cooling or ventilation

SET UP THE BATHROOM
- Leave a clean bath towel and hand towel for each guest
- Put spare toilet paper somewhere easy to find
- Refill hand soap and check that the shower works
- Make space for guests' toiletries
- Put out a small bin
- Explain any shared bathroom schedule or unusual shower controls

PLAN FOOD AND DRINKS
- Agree on a simple breakfast that suits your guests' needs
- Check what you already have before buying groceries
- Provide drinking water and show guests where to find glasses
- Make tea, coffee or another preferred drink easy to prepare
- Label or explain food that is reserved for a specific meal
- Decide together which meals you will share and which guests will arrange themselves

BEFORE THEY ARRIVE
- Clean the sleeping area and bathroom
- Clear the entrance and the route to the bathroom
- Share the Wi-Fi network and password privately
- Arrange a key or agree how guests will get in if you are out
- Keep your own valuables and private paperwork out of the guest space
- Leave your contact number if guests will be home without you

ONCE GUESTS ARE SETTLED
- Show them the bathroom, kitchen and exits
- Explain locks, alarms and any important house rules
- Agree on plans for the next morning without overfilling the visit
- Check that the sleeping setup is comfortable
- Confirm where to leave keys and used towels when they depart