When you’ve spent days preparing to have people over, you naturally just want your house to look its best. My uncle, for example, swears by doing a quick cleanup before guests arrive: ‘You know, out with the old ketchup, in with the new; replace those frayed bath towels & bathroom soap.’
Experts say that spending even a few minutes tweaking these details will help make your home feel fresher and more inviting. So here are 10 things they suggest tossing or tidying up to give your place that little extra polish.
Expired Foods
Expired food hanging around in the fridge or pantry can easily bring down a fresh, clean kitchen vibe. Someone’s bound to open the fridge for a drink or a snack, so it’s best to check for anything that might smell past its prime; such as cooked food, eggs, milk, salad dressings, yogurts, condiments or sauces.
Clearing out expired food not only makes the area look better but it will also prevent any unpleasant odors from lingering in the fridge.
Worn-Out Towels
Keep an eye on your bathroom towels. This doesn’t mean they need to be expensive; they just need to look good. Add some luxury to your bathroom by replacing or upgrading anything that’s worn and ragged.
Frayed towels can really drag down a tidy bathroom. New, fluffy towels help it feel like a spa. Even cheap towels will feel silky when new.
Old Magazines and Newspapers
Old magazines and newspapers in stacks look dusty and can make your living space appear cluttered. Those with sentimental value can be kept, but everything else should be thrown out or recycled. A couple of magazines or books can be great, but too many will just look messy.
Broken or Unused Items
Broken and unused appliances, furniture or ornaments occupy space and can make a room look messy. Put away or toss those items that are broken or you don’t use. This perks up your space and can also make it look tidy.
Empty or Nearly Empty Toiletries
Partially used soaps, lotions and shampoo bottles can make a guest bathroom look grubby. Replace or tidy up these items for a tiny extra effort that makes the bathroom feel clean and refreshed. If you have any extra new bottles lying around, set a few of them out. It can make your bathroom feel luxurious.
Outdated Spices and Condiments
Spices also have a shelf life; regularly check them, and have them neatly stowed away too. When you are cooking with friends, fresh spices will carry your food to its flavor potential.
Pet Toys and Bowls
Pet toys, bowls and beds can sometimes make a home feel cluttered, especially if they’re scattered around. Try to keep these items in one area, like a designated room or a corner, so they don’t spill over into spaces where guests will be.
If the toys look especially worn, consider storing or replacing them. Clean any food and water bowls and give pet beds a quick wash to keep everything fresh. Tidying up your pet’s area shows guests you’ve thought about cleanliness and makes your space feel more inviting and organized. Also remember to clean pet hair off your furniture.
Old Pillows and Throws
Your couch cushions, throws or bed pillows might be looking a little worse for wear. Guests will notice if cushions have become a little flattened in places or your blankets have some significant wear and tear; so a few new pieces or a wash of the existing ones can make all the difference.
Soft, fluffy pillows and throws make seating areas more inviting, and your guests will feel welcome when you provide a comfortable place for them.
Stale Candles or Air Fresheners
What we smell often stays with us, even if it’s only an indirect memory, so make sure the odors in your home are pleasant and unforced. If you’re using reed diffusers and candles, which are notoriously overpowering in scent, make sure you swap them out for new ones.
Use subtle, comforting scents such as lavender or vanilla when the older ones begin to lose their punch or develop a funky smell.
Outdated or Dying Plants
Plants are essential to brightening any space, but if they appear dying and wilting, they can ultimately make your home look shabby. Adding healthy plants complements your space and instantly breathes vitality into your home.