You know that text that says. “We’re on our way!” and suddenly you notice the laundry on the floor, the dishes in the sink, and the shoes by the front door?
As the owner of Taylor Maid Cleaning Service, I’d start with the areas your guests will actually use. Set a timer for 30 minutes, grab a laundry basket, and tackle things in this order.
Minutes 0-8 : Pick up laundry and clear the clutter
Start by getting laundry up off the floor and out of the way. Put dirty clothes in the hamper and move clean laundry to a bedroom to fold later. Then do a quick pass through the living room and kitchen for anything that’s landed where it doesn’t belong. Papers, toys, and odds and ends can go in a basket to sort after everyone leaves.
Minutes 8-15: Get the dishes out of the sink
If the dishwasher is full of clean dishes, put them away first so you can load the dirty ones. Hand wash anything you’ll need while guests are there, then give the sink and the main counter a quick wipe. I like to leave one clear spot where people can set down a drink or where I can put out a snack.
Minutes 16-24: Freshen up the guest bathroom
Wipe the sink and faucet, clean the toilet, and check the mirror for splashes. Empty the trash if it’s full, set out a fresh hand towel, and make sure there’s hand soap and an extra roll of toilet paper within reach. Those last little details make it easy for guests to find what they need.
Minutes 24-30: Make room for coats and shoes
Move your own shoes and coats out of the entryway so there’s a space for theirs. Clear a spot on the mat or shoe reach and free up a few hooks or hangers. If you’re short on closet space, pick a chair or a spot where you can offer to take their coats. On your way back to the front door, close the doors to any rooms that are too much to tackle today.
When the timer goes off, wash your hands, take a breath, and go enjoy your company. The laundry will be there tomorrow.
XO~ Sherri