How to turn your spare room into a welcoming guest room?

A spare room can easily become a cosy guest room with just a few simple changes. By adding comfortable furniture, some nice decorations, and a few handy extras, you can turn an empty space into a warm and inviting spot for your guests. This guide will show you how to make your spare room a great place for visitors, making sure they feel right at home.

See also: Guest room design: Top ideas for inspiration

Declutter and clean your spare room

To make your spare room ready for guests, start by clearing out any personal items and clutter. Remove things like family photos, personal collections, and any decorations that are more about your taste than a neutral look. Also, get rid of extra papers, old magazines, and other random stuff to make the space feel open and welcoming.

Next, give the room a good cleaning. Vacuum the carpets well, and if needed, get them steam cleaned for a deeper clean. Wash the walls with warm, soapy water to get rid of stains and marks, and clean the windows inside and out to let in more light. Don’t forget to dust all surfaces, including furniture and light fixtures, and clean the baseboards and mouldings too.

Finally, make sure the room has good airflow. Open the windows to let in fresh air and reduce humidity. Use fans if the weather is nice to help circulate the air and get rid of any musty smells. Also, check that your air filters are clean to keep the air quality fresh.

Invest in a comfortable bed

Choose the right bed size

Think about how many guests you usually host to decide on the bed size. A twin bed works well for single guests, especially kids or teens. A double bed is good for one person or a couple who don’t mind a snug fit. A queen bed is popular for guest rooms, giving enough space for two people. If you have more room and want maximum comfort, a king bed is the way to go. Just make sure to consider the size of your room and how many guests you expect.

Opt for a high-quality mattress and pillows

A good mattress is crucial for a restful night. Look for one that offers comfort and support, whether it’s memory foam, innerspring, or a hybrid. Also, think about features like firmness and cooling to suit different needs. Pillows are just as important, so provide a mix of soft, medium, and firm options. Keep them clean and fresh for the best experience.

Consider a guest bed or sofa bed

If you’re short on space, a guest bed or sofa bed might be a smart choice. Guest beds are designed to fold away when not in use, saving space. Sofa beds can be handy too, but they might not be as comfy as a regular bed.

Essential furniture

Providing the right furniture can significantly enhance your guests’ comfort and experience.   

Nightstands

Nightstands are essential for providing a convenient spot for guests to place their bedside essentials. This includes items like:

Alarm clock

• Glasses of water
• Books
• Phone chargers
• Dresser or chest

A dresser or chest offers valuable storage space for guests to unpack their belongings and keep their things organised. It can also be used to display decorative items.   

Comfortable chair or armchair

A cosy chair or armchair provides a relaxing space for guests to unwind and read. It’s a thoughtful addition that can make the room feel more inviting.

Full-length mirror

A full-length mirror is a practical item that allows guests to check their appearance before heading out. It’s a simple touch that can make a big difference in their overall experience.

Create a welcoming atmosphere

Choose calming and neutral colours

Picking the right colours is important for making your guest room feel peaceful and inviting. Go for neutral colours like white, cream, light grey, or soft blue for a calm and timeless look. You might also add touches of calming colours like soft green or light lavender to enhance the serene vibe. Stick to a consistent colour scheme throughout the room, using different shades of the same colour to keep it interesting.

Add soft textures

Textures play a big role in how a room feels. Lay down a soft area rug to make the room feel warmer and more comfortable. Choose curtains made from soft materials like linen or cotton for a gentle look. Add a cosy throw on the bed or a chair to make the space feel extra inviting. Use soft, high-quality linens for the bedding to give it a luxurious touch.

Incorporate personal touches

Personal touches can make your guests feel extra welcome. Hang up artwork that reflects your style or creates a soothing atmosphere. Add a few potted plants to bring a bit of nature indoors and freshen up the space. Use decorative items like pillows, throws, or wall hangings to give the room some personality.

Ensure good lighting

Lighting is key to setting the right mood in the room. Use overhead lights or soft-toned lamps to provide overall illumination. Include reading lamps or desk lamps for specific tasks. Highlight artwork or special features with focused lighting. Adding dimmers can help you adjust the lighting to create a relaxing atmosphere, especially in the evening.

Provide necessary amenities

Bedding

Make sure your guest room has fresh linens, including clean sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers. Provide a selection of blankets to match different temperature preferences, so your guests can stay comfortable. Offer a variety of pillows to ensure they have the right support for a good night’s sleep.

Additional amenities

It’s a nice touch to have extra blankets and pillows available for chilly nights. A closet with hangers will help guests keep their clothes organised. A trash can and tissue box are useful for keeping the space tidy. An alarm clock can help guests wake up on time, making their stay more convenient.

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