Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and whether you’re hosting family, friends, or a small gathering, a little prep goes a long way. Between cooking, decorating, and making sure everyone has a place to sit, it can feel like a lot. To help take some of the stress out of the holiday, we’ve put together 10 things to clean and prep before Thanksgiving so you can focus on enjoying the day instead of worrying about the mess.
1. Declutter Your Entryway
First impressions matter! Clear out shoes, coats, and random clutter from your entryway. Sweep, vacuum, or mop the floor, and maybe add a simple seasonal decoration to welcome guests.
2. Deep Clean the Kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of the holiday, so give it some love. Wipe down countertops, clean the stovetop and oven, and make sure the fridge is ready for all the sides, desserts, and leftovers.
3. Tidy Up the Dining Area
Dust the table, chairs, and any serving surfaces. Pull out extra chairs if needed, and make sure you have enough placemats or chargers. If your table is small, think about creative ways to add seating without feeling cramped.
4. Bathrooms Are a Must
Clean the toilet, sink, mirror, and floor. Replace hand towels with fresh ones and make sure there’s enough soap and toilet paper. A little effort goes a long way in keeping guests comfortable.
5. Dust & Vacuum High-Traffic Areas
The living room, hallways, and any spaces where guests will gather deserve a quick dusting and vacuum. Don’t forget corners, under furniture, and rugs!
6. Prep Guest Spaces
If friends or family are staying overnight, tidy up guest bedrooms. Make the bed, clear clutter, and fluff pillows. Even small touches like a fresh hand towel or a basket with essentials can make guests feel welcome.
7. Clean Windows & Mirrors
Sparkling windows and mirrors make a house feel bright and fresh. You don’t need a full-on spring-cleaning session—just a quick wipe to remove smudges and fingerprints.
8. Set Up a Drink Station
Make it easy for guests to help themselves. Wipe down counters or a side table, set out glasses or mugs, and have water, coffee, and perhaps a festive punch ready to go.
9. Freshen Up Floors
Mop tile or hardwood floors, vacuum carpets, and consider a quick sweep of outdoor walkways if you’re expecting people to track in leaves or dirt.
10. Little Details Make a Big Difference
From wiping light switches to polishing silverware, small touches show you care. You can even set out a candle or two for a cozy, inviting vibe—just remember to keep safety in mind!
The Result? A Stress-Free Thanksgiving
A few hours of cleaning and prepping can save so much stress on the big day. Your home will feel warm, welcoming, and ready for memories to be made—without you running around last minute.
Even if your home isn’t a sprawling estate, a little planning goes a long way in making Thanksgiving enjoyable. And if you’re already dreaming of a bigger kitchen, extra guest space, or a home that fits your family traditions perfectly, we’re always here to chat about how to find the right home for your lifestyle.
Need more home prep tips, or thinking about upgrading your space before the next holiday? Contact us—we love helping families create homes that make hosting a breeze!
