Houseguest Prep Checklist

Tell guests where it will be hidden (if they'll arrive while you're out) or hand it over when they get there, so they aren't ringing the doorbell every time they return.

If you have a guest room, freshen up its linens.

If your "guest room" is a blow-up mattress in the living room, see that it's in good condition. Inflate it to make sure there are no holes, and, if you have time, vacuum the surface so it's free of dust.

Guests may be used to sleeping with two pillows, so an extra set (stored under the bed) is a good idea. Fold an extra blanket and lay it nearby in case guests get cold.

If there's a closet in your guest room, be sure that it isn't stuffed with Christmas decorations and such. If there's no guest room, clear a little space in your own closet for a suit jacket or dress that needs to be hung.

Clear off a storage trunk or have a folding stand ready for guests' luggage. It will help them stay organized and keep the room neater.

All of those mini bottles you've collected from hotels? Use them! Have shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, a bar of soap, and toothpaste in plain sight in the guest bathroom. If you're sharing a bathroom, leave toiletries in a basket by the bed.

Consider offering one that's a different color from your everyday towels, so a guest knows which is hers.

Have breakfast basics on hand: coffee, orange juice, fruit, granola, muffins. Small snacks for the afternoon will likely be appreciated too.

Think about what guests might want to do when they visit, and know when shops or museums are open.

If you're heading to work instead of playing tour guide, have the local paper or magazines available with listings of attractions. Get a local bus or subway map, or provide directions if guests are driving.

Give guests something to read before they go to sleep. If there's an interesting book about your town, even better

Put together a list of emergency contacts in case something happens while you're out. Give the name and number of a neighbor, family member, even a plumber (if you have tricky toilets)—anyone whom guests might need in a pinch.

How does the remote control work? What's the deal with that newfangled alarm system? Give guests some pointers in case they're stumped while you're gone.