Depending on the size of your home, you may have a guest suite, extra bedroom, or even just a pullout sofa bed or futon in your home office. Regardless of how spare or opulent your guest space, it’s important to determine if it’s comfortable and functional for overnight visitors. And the best way to figure that out is to spend a night – or a weekend – in the area yourself! We’ve put together a list of things that make for a welcoming, pleasant space for guests. Why not spend a few nights in your guest room to see if yours makes the grade?

Guest Room Checklist

The Room

• Is the room clutter-free? Is it clean?
• Does the room stay at a comfortable temperature, day and night?
• Is the room noisy – either due to street noise or sounds within the house?
• Are light levels appropriate for the room? Does the room get dark enough at night? Is there a suitable reading lamp?
• If pets are in the home, is the room free of pet hair and odor?
• Is there a convenient place to place – and open up – luggage?
• Are there ample closet space and drawer space for guest use?
• Is there a comfortable place to sit?

Bed/Bedding

• Is the bed comfortable to sleep in?
• Is the bed large enough for guests?
• Are all pillows on the bed intended to be slept on?
• If linens are new, have they been washed before use?
• Is there an extra blanket for guest use?
• Do linens, curtains, etc., need to be ironed?

Towels/Bath

• Are there sufficient towels for all guests, allowing for a few extras?
• Have new towels been washed prior to use?
• Is the bathroom clean?
• Are the sink and bathtub/shower adequately stocked with cleansers, lotions, cotton balls, swabs, etc., obviously intended for guest use?
• Is there extra toilet paper in an obvious location? Facial tissue?

Electronics

• Does the room have an alarm clock that’s easy to use?
• Is there a television for guest use?
• Will guests have access to a telephone and Internet access in the room?
• Are there sufficient, well-placed electrical outlets for charging electronics, etc.?

Extras

• Are there a fresh bottle of water and several clean glasses available in the room?
• Have you provided a small variety of packaged snack items on a tray?
• Do you have a hairdryer or other beauty necessities available for your guests?

Do you have any other ideas for creating a relaxing, rejuvenating guest room? Submit it to be entered into our contest!