November has arrived in Bedford, and before we know it, we’ll be welcoming family, friends, and neighbors into our homes for Thanksgiving gatherings and holiday visits. Whether you’re hosting a big dinner or just expecting someone to stop by for coffee, there’s something about company coming that makes us suddenly notice every dusty shelf and stray pair of shoes!
But my dears, there’s no need to turn the whole house upside down. A little attention to the right places can make your home feel clean, comfortable, and ready for guests.
Start with the entryway. This is the first thing visitors see, so shake out the doormat, sweep away fallen leaves, and find a place for extra coats and shoes. With November’s unpredictable Northeast Ohio weather, having somewhere for guests to leave wet footwear is especially helpful.
Next, focus on the bathroom guests will use. Wipe down the sink, faucet, mirror, and countertop. Give the toilet a thorough cleaning, empty the wastebasket, and put out fresh hand towels. Don’t forget to check that there’s plenty of toilet paper and soap!
In the living room, dust the surfaces people are likely to notice, straighten pillows and throws, and vacuum the floors. If you have pets, give upholstered furniture a little extra attention. A lint roller can work wonders when you’re short on time.
Now, let’s talk about the kitchen. Clear unnecessary clutter from countertops, wipe down cabinet handles, and give the sink a good scrub. If you’re preparing a holiday meal, clean out the refrigerator a few days ahead so there’s room for ingredients and leftovers.
Finally, remember the little things that make guests comfortable. Empty trash cans, check for burned-out lightbulbs, and make sure there’s a clear path through the rooms where everyone will gather.
And here’s my favorite bit of advice: don’t save every cleaning task for the day before company arrives. Tackle one area each day, and you’ll have far less to worry about when the doorbell rings.
A welcoming home doesn’t have to be spotless, my dears. People come to visit because they enjoy your company, not because they’re inspecting your baseboards!
So straighten what you can, put on a pot of coffee, and enjoy the people who make this season special.
This week’s Do You Know Bedford? answer: Morgan Lithography! Sedlon’s artistic career included work as a lithographer as well as painting and sculpture.
