How to Clean Quickly for Unexpected Company

By Maid Brigade of Northern Connecticut

You love having guests over, but what happens when they show up unexpectedly?

Here are some tips to help you clean up quickly before they arrive.

Clean and tidy rooms where the guests may go – the front hall, your living room, the bathroom, etc.

Open the windows to let fresh air in, take out the garbage, and vacuum if you have time.

Check the soap, towel, and toilet paper in the bathroom. Add toilet freshener, then flush. Wipe the sink with a cleaning wipe.

Hang up all coats and make room in the closet, or on coat pegs, for your guests’ coats.

In the kitchen, empty the sink and clean off and wipe the counters.

“Stash” any clutter. Yes, you may be hiding it, but you can go back and put it where it belongs when your guests leave.

You’ll also want to think of the five senses and play to those as well.

Put on some soft music, add some color by moving flowers to a vantage point in the living room, and make your home smell nice with a scented candle or by warming up a bread roll. (Who doesn’t love freshly baked bread?!)

Set up a snack area by laying out coasters and a central mat, and don’t forget to make the house look cozy.

More than anything, getting the brightness right can disguise a less-than-clean home.

Turning lights on during the day makes your home appear fresher and sunnier. An exception is in the kitchen, where halogen or florescent lights seldom flatter. So simply turn on under-cabinet lighting to direct the focus onto a clear counter.

Candles are the ultimate in forgiving. Their soft glow hides dirt, yet throws warmth and soft color around the room. Small groups of candles can effectively light a large room. After dusk, close the curtains, turn off any overhead lights, and use candles and table lamps instead.

Need some help around the house? Give Maid Brigade of Central Connecticut a call at 860-645-6243 and we’ll help you out.