The phone rings, you get a text or its birthday time, which means family, friends, and a parade of guests are about to descend on your home.

But let’s be real: cleaning is probably at the bottom of your “fun things to do” list. Don’t worry—I’ve been there. In fact, just last week, I had a moment of reckoning when I looked at the pile-up around my kitchen door. It hit me: This is what my guests will see first!

Finding the Motivation to Declutter

Life gets busy, and messes accumulate. It happens. For me, the chaos started at the kitchen door. Groceries, boots, coats—it was all there, screaming for a solution. Luckily, a summer cleaning spree left me with some leftover organizational tools. A sturdy shelf I scored at a friend’s “buy my stuff” sale turned out to be the hero of this project, paired with some plastic baskets I had stashed away after decluttering my closet.

Smart and Creative Storage Ideas

• Repurpose What You Have
  I used those plastic baskets that used to store my t-shirts in for storage. Perfect for holding gloves, hats, and reusable grocery bags. Now, when I rush in with an armful of groceries, I have designated spots for everything.

• Think Outside the Box
  A ceramic drum that had been sitting under my gazebo became an umbrella stand. I flipped it upside down, and voilà—functional storage with a touch of charm!

• Seasonal Decor Meets Functionality
  I added a fresh pumpkin for a festive touch. Not only does it look cute, but my chickens also love munching on it when the season is over. Double win!

Quick Cleaning Tips for Every Space

• Focus on High-Traffic Areas:
  Start with your entryway, living room, and guest bathroom. These are the spaces your visitors will notice first.
• Declutter Before You Clean:
  It’s hard to vacuum or dust when surfaces are covered in clutter. Start with one area at a time, using baskets or bins to keep everything tidy.

• Add a Personal Touch:
  Once your space is clean, throw in some seasonal accents like candles, throw pillows, or a cozy blanket. It instantly elevates the space and makes guests feel welcome.

My Takeaway

Having friends over doesn’t have to be a whirlwind of stress. By repurposing what you have and focusing on key areas, you can create a welcoming home for your guests without spending a fortune—or exhausting yourself.

So, take a deep breath, grab a glass of sweet tea for a refreshing touch, and get to it. Trust me, your future self (and your guests) will thank you!

How do you prepare your home for visitors? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your creative solutions!