Your Holiday Hosting Cleaning Checklist: How to Prep Your Home Before Guests Arrive in Knoxville, Hendersonville, and Gallatin

When you’re getting ready to welcome guests, the last thing you want is a stressful cleaning marathon. Whether you live in Knoxville, Hendersonville, or Gallatin, preparing your home ahead of time can help you enjoy the season and feel proud of your space. This simple, room-by-room checklist makes it easy to create a home that feels warm, inviting, and holiday-ready.

1. Start With the Entryway

First impressions matter.
Your entryway sets the tone the moment guests walk in.

Quick tasks:

  • Shake out welcome mats

  • Sweep or vacuum floors

  • Wipe down the front door and doorframe

  • Clear clutter (bags, shoes, packages)

  • Add a seasonal touch — a candle, wreath, or small plant

2. Freshen Up the Kitchen

Holiday hosting often revolves around food, so the kitchen deserves extra attention.

Cleaning checklist:

  • Wipe counters and backsplash

  • Clean the sink and faucet (remove water spots)

  • Empty the trash and replace the bag

  • Clean appliance fronts (microwave, fridge, dishwasher)

  • Clear out the fridge to make room for holiday dishes

  • Sweep and mop floors

Optional:
Add a simple centerpiece or a clean dish towel for a fresh, polished look.

3. Refresh the Guest Bathroom

This is one area guests always notice.

Do this the day before they arrive:

  • Scrub the toilet

  • Wipe mirrors and counters

  • Clean the sink

  • Restock toilet paper

  • Put out fresh hand towels

  • Empty trash

  • Add a seasonal or neutral candle

4. Tidy the Living Room

Create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere where everyone can relax.

Checklist:

  • Fluff pillows and fold throws

  • Vacuum floors and rugs

  • Dust surfaces and lamps

  • Declutter remotes, magazines, and mail

  • Wipe coffee tables and side tables

Optional finishing touches:

  • Light a candle

  • Turn on soft lighting

  • Add a simple décor piece

5. Prep Guest Spaces (If They’re Staying Overnight)

Whether it’s a guest room or pull-out sofa, set it up with care.

  • Fresh sheets and pillowcases

  • Clean blanket or comforter

  • Empty a drawer or closet space

  • Add a water bottle or small welcome note

  • Provide extra blankets

6. The Day-Of Touch-Ups

These last-minute tasks make the biggest difference:

  • Do a quick sweep or vacuum

  • Wipe bathroom counters

  • Empty visible trash

  • Spray a light linen or room freshener

  • Turn on soft music

Need Help Getting Ready?

If you want the peace of mind of a professionally cleaned home before your guests arrive, Brite Spot Cleaning proudly serves:

Knoxville (West Knox, Farragut, Cedar Bluff, Hardin Valley)
Sumner County (Hendersonville & Gallatin)

Let us help you enjoy your holiday season with a sparkling home you can feel proud of.

Book Your Holiday Cleaning

Visit: www.britespotcleaning.com

Let us be a Brite spot in your day — and your holiday hosting. 💛

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