TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — It would be great to have a private decorator, personal chef and professional maid service at our disposal, especially during the holidays. But let’s face it: most of us don’t. So that means any last-minute preps for houseguests are up to you to tackle. Fortunately, 8 is On Your Side with some easy hacks.
Rachel Revill is a former probation officer who now serves up service as a personal concierge on a mission to reduce stress.
“If you’re not prepared that’s why you’re stressed out and overwhelmed,” points out Revill.Revill suggests welcoming guests with a basket of basic toiletries, snacks and bottled water. Add a couple of magazines or books next to the bed too. If you have time, clear out a few dresser drawers for your guests. At the very least, make a few empty hangers available. “There’s nothing like walking into a space and feeling welcome,” Revill said.
Another must, says Revill, is to make sure your guests know your Wi-Fi password. She likes to print the username and password on a nice card left next to the bed.
“No one likes to ask, ‘can I have your login, please?'” Revill smiles.
No time to deep clean? Make your home feel like you did anyway by stuffing dryer sheets between couch cushions, or anywhere else you can conceal them. Dryer sheets are also good dusters because the dust won’t settle in those spaces later. Revill says the most important areas to dust are ceiling fans and lights.
Raid your kitchen and make cleaning products. Revill’s old-fashioned favorite is to wipe down glass surfaces using a newspaper dipped in vinegar and water. The newspaper won’t leave behind any lint or streaks. Vinegar and baking soda also make a good toilet cleaner, and the baking soda can be sprinkled on mattresses and rugs, then vacuumed up for an easy refresh.
It is Florida after all, so encourage your guests to use the patio. If you have time, put up a few lights. But with minimal time, make sure the lanai is swept.
“It’s a quick leaf blow to get rid of cobwebs and debris,” Revill said.You can learn more about Revill’s services on her website.
