Last minute holiday prep is never fun but with the trials and tribulations of life often taking us in so many directions things can very easily come down to the wire.That’s why if you’re one of those people that knows time is extremely limited or simply likes to wait till the last minute and cram it all in here are a few tips on how to stay focused so the important stuff gets done and family and guests are comfortable in your humble abode.In a way it’s a cute commentary on what you can and can’t get away with but it’s also a practical overview for taking off some of the pressure and enjoying the time with loved ones without getting too caught up in the state of the home.
- The bathroom: Some rooms in the home have reasonable excuses why they are a complete mess but the bathroom can never have this luxury. The first order of business, even before all other cooking and cleaning, is to make the bathroom respectable. Things like the toilet, sink, mirrors, and general tile cleaning are musts but scrubbing grout and going through cabinets can be overlooked and saved for a later time.
- The kitchen: On the one hand the sink can be left till the last minute because there will always be more to wash and it’s ok if the fridge is stuffed as long as old food is tossed and any spills wiped up. On the other hand the stove top and counters should be clear and the floor shined.
- Guest room: There’s nothing worse than not having it ready for guests when they arrive and still have so many other things to do. Even if they don’t mind waiting a few extra minutes it will take a load off your shoulders knowing guests can comfortably retreat to their own private space without you having to finish the arrangements and do everything else.
- Dust off the tree and decorations: If decorations and ornaments weren’t stored properly after last year’s holidays they may be a bit dirty from dust. Wipe them down so anyone with sensitive allergies won’t be affected.
- Close off the attic and basement: These are places where you can throw all the loose junk that needs to get out of the way ASAP. Just make sure to inconspicuously barricade the doors so no one sees what you’re hiding.
- Holiday greetings: Call your immediate family and send one mass email to everyone else wishing them happy holidays.
- Vacuum: Vacuuming is definitely a quick and easy chore and can be left for the last minute but it’s necessary because when the living room carpet has that semi-new look it brings uniformity to the rest of the space even if a few other things are out of order.