Just because you don't happen to have a spare room doesn't mean you can't host guests overnight. After all, it's not the amount of space you have, but what you do with it, that matters. With a little preparation, you can ensure your guests feel just as comfortable staying in your home.
"When you don't have a spare room, finding creative ways to provide a welcoming environment is even more critical," says Ivo Iv, a home decor and home improvement expert and founder of Decor Home Ideas.
Rule number one? According to Courtney Opalko, a certified etiquette coach, you should never underestimate the importance of treating your guests with kindness, warmth, and consideration.
So, with that in mind, here are a few easy ways to make your guests feel right at home—even without a spare room for them to sleep in.
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1 | Have lots of clean and cozy bedding options on hand.
Shutterstock/Denys RWhether your guests will be sleeping on a sofa bed, air mattress, or something else entirely it's a good idea to provide fresh-smelling sheets as well as plenty of plush pillows and warm blankets, says Amanda Casas, interior designer at Kinda Coastal Home. According to Iv, even adding a mattress topper with ample cushioning and setting out a stack of clean towels can make a big difference.
"Make sure you have enough beds per heads," Casas adds. "For example, a pullout couch is not enough space for more than two people–even if they are kids."
When sleeping, some people tend to run particularly hot or cold—and some like their head to be propped up while others prefer laying flatter. By providing them with multiple options, you ensure that they create a sleeping space that's comfortable for them.
"Prioritize comfort and warmth," says Artem Kropovinsky, an interior designer and founder of Arsight. "And don't forget to incorporate personal touches, like plants and framed photos."
2 | Keep them in the loop about your daily routine.
iStock / RawpixelIf your guests are staying in a living room, family room, or another communal area, Opalko strongly recommends communicating what they can expect in terms of your family's daily schedule.
For example, if your living room is connected to your kitchen, you should make it clear that everyone typically has breakfast around 8 a.m. That way, they can adjust their sleeping schedule accordingly and aren't caught off guard when they hear the clanging of pots and pans in the morning.
3 | Offer some control over the temperature.
iStock / andresrWhether you tend to keep your thermostat at 68 or 75 degrees, make sure to give some guests some control over this while they're staying in your home.
"Adjust the room's temperature according to their preference in whatever room they're sleeping in," says Ana Ro, founder and chief editor of Design Ideas Guide.
You could also show them where the thermostat is and how to adjust it, in case they prefer to lower or raise the temperature at bedtime. Ro also suggests offering guests a fan in case they like to sleep with a cool breeze or white noise.
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4 | Make sure they have plenty of privacy.
Pixelshot / ShutterstockThere are many ways to create a sense of privacy for your guests even without a spare room.
For example, Artem Kropovinsky, an interior designer and founder of Arsight, recommends using a fold-out room divider to separate their sleeping space from other communal areas. You might also consider putting up curtains to help block out the morning light and giving guests exclusive access to one of the bathrooms in your home.
"Offering guests earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can also help ensure a restful night's sleep," adds Kropovinsky.
5 | Give them a place to store their belongings.
iStockAlthough you may not have a dedicated room for guests to sleep in, you can still offer them somewhere to put their things.
For example, Iv suggests letting them know that they can store their clothes in an empty hallway closet or dresser.
This helps to keep their sleeping space clutter-free.
READ THIS NEXT: 6 Items You Should Always Have in Your Living Room When Guests Come Over.
6 | Keep guests informed about key house info.
ShutterstockEspecially if your guests are staying over for the first time, it's a good idea to relay some basic info about your home on a printed note, says Jodi RR Smith, etiquette expert and president/owner of Mannersmith.
This might include:
- The WiFi network name and password
- Any necessary tips on how to use the coffee maker, TV remote, etc.
- Where to find snacks, extra toilet paper, etc.
- Any quirks about the house—like the fact that the pipes may bang when the heat turns on, or that the shower water takes a while to heat up
7 | Provide some basic must-haves.
New Africa/shutterstockSmith and Iv advise providing guests with a basket or tray of essentials—including items they may have forgotten to pack—such as:
- Toiletries
- Water bottles
- Magazines and books
- A plug-in nightlight
- Bedside reading lamp
According to Iv, you'd be surprised how much this simple gesture can make your guests feel at home.
"The extremely considerate host will also inquire about the guest’s tastes and preferences, and stock up on their favorite foods and beverages," adds Smith.
