What to keep on hand for overnight guests

Short answer: An extra set of bedding, two towels and a pair of socks. That covers most visits and takes up less room than a shelf, if it is kept together and ready in the cupboard.

Bedding in a neutral colour

A set that goes with everything means you do not have to think about it when a guest suddenly arrives at short notice. Choose a light, neutral colour rather than a pattern, so it suits the guest room no matter how the rest of the decor looks. See bamboo bedding.

Why one extra set is enough

You do not need several sets of bedding, only one that is clean and ready at all times. If it gets used, wash it right after the guest leaves, so it is ready again for next time without you having to remember anything along the way.

Two towels per guest

One large and one small towel cover an ordinary visit. The large one is for the body, the small one for hands and face, and together they cover the need without you setting out more than necessary. See bamboo towels.

Why towel size matters

A towel that is too small dries less well and has to be used more times, leaving it damp the whole stay. A properly sized towel dries in one go and is ready again the next day, which is exactly what a guest needs on a short visit.

Socks are what they forget

Cold feet in someone else's home are the most common complaint from overnight guests, and it is often exactly what people forget to pack themselves. A spare pair in the drawer solves the problem without you having to ask, and the guest does not need to request it either. See bamboo socks for women.

Keep everything in the same place

Keep bedding, towels and socks in the same spot in the cupboard every time, so you do not have to search when a guest is at the door. A fixed spot also lets you see quickly what needs washing or restocking after the last visit.

Wash and lay it out before arrival

Clean and laid out means the guest does not have to ask about anything, and it signals that the visit is expected and welcome. Lay the items on the bed so the guest sees them right away, instead of having to ask where the towels are kept.

What to add if you have the space

If you have room, you can add a bathrobe or a pair of slippers, but it is not necessary for most visits. See bamboo clothing for women if you want to add something soft to wear around in the morning.

How to keep the setup up to date

Check once a year that the bedding and towels still look inviting, because fabric that has lost its colour or gone stiff from many washes makes a poor impression even when clean. Replace items along the way instead of waiting until everything needs renewing at once.