Last Updated on December 16, 2025
If the first act of “Home Alone” has taught us anything, it’s that the holly, jolly hustle and bustle of the holidays can quickly turn into complete familial chaos.
Is this your year to pack your home to the rafters with extended family and friends? Set yourself up for success by following these steps to prepare your home for holiday guests.
Step 1: Deck the halls
Create a relaxing holiday atmosphere by laying a foundation of holiday decor. If you’re expecting a packed house, consider playing down the decorations a little to keep your space from looking too cluttered once it’s full of people. Build a playlist of your favorite tunes prior to guests arriving. Looking for a way to kick up the ambiance? Candles are an inexpensive way to add some oomph!
Read more: Holiday decor ideas “yule” love
Step 2: Prep the kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of every home—and the place where guests tend to congregate. Get your kitchen ready for guests AND for any and all holiday cooking and baking. Scrub down your stove and oven. Clean out any unneeded food from the fridge so as to leave plenty of room for guest-supplied dishes. Sanitize your counters. And don’t forget to stock up on coffee, cocoa, or your favorite holiday beverages!
Read more: 8 kitchen cleaning hacks to make your kitchen sparkle for the holidays
Step 3: Have an activity ready
Whether you’re expecting children or crafty adults, it never hurts to have a low-key, totally optional activity ready to go. Give your guests something fun to do with their hands while you’re chatting or waiting for dinner. Paper stars and garlands are a fun craft idea. Or have baked cookies ready to be decorated. They can either put up their decor and eat their snacks while there, or guests can take them home as an extra gift.
Read more: 7 fun and festive holiday decor and food ideas you need to try
Step 4: Sugar them up
Is there such a thing as too many sweet treats at the holidays? In addition to cookie crafts (if you choose to do that), have some ready-to-nibble treats ready for guests. Most holiday snacks can be prepared well ahead of time and kept refrigerated, frozen, or just in tupperware. Aim for a mix of sweet and savory to cover everyone’s tastes.
Read more: Your Holiday Dessert Line-Up: 10 Irresistible Recipes to Bake Now
Step 5: Clear some space
Your house guests want to feel comfortable without being an imposition, so make that easy for them. As you would for a house showing, stage your home for your guests. Put away all unnecessary personal items, small appliances, and bathroom supplies. Clear space especially at the entryway for extra coats and shoes. Help your kids declutter their spaces. And make sure there are enough places to sit throughout your home.
Read more: 9 Steps to Prepare for Holiday Guests
Step 6: Put on your hosting hat
After you’ve cleared your home of clutter, consider where your guests will need to put their belongings during their visit—and make additional space there. Put clean linens on all the guest beds. Place fresh, fluffy towels and luxury soaps in the bathrooms. Make sure every guest space is equipped with what they may need throughout their stay. This is especially important if you have guests sleeping in “unconventional” spaces like a home office. Are there practical and homey touches like a lamp, clock, waste basket, or even fresh flowers?
Read more: Tips for hosting the perfect holiday gathering
Filling your home with holiday guests is a privilege and should be a source of joy, not anxiety. By setting your home—and yourself—up for success, you’re sure to have a joyous and memorable holiday this year.
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Howard Hanna Allen Tate Real Estate is the #1 real estate company in the Carolinas, with more than 75 offices and 1,800 agents serving communities across North and South Carolina. As part of Howard Hanna Real Estate Services, the largest family-owned and operated real estate company in the United States, Howard Hanna Allen Tate offers a full suite of real estate services, including mortgage, insurance, title and relocation. For more information, visit www.howardhannatate.com.
