Quick Change

If you have a short amount of time between one guest leaving and the other arriving, there are a few things you can do to save time.

Create an Inventory check list

Make an easy to view list of everything you provide, for example, shampoo, cutlery, games, etc, including quantities, so you can do a quick check to see if anything is missing without having to try to remember every item.

In time you will probably remember without having to use the list.

Everything in its place

I try to keep everything in the same place for each guest. This makes it quicker to check nothing is missing, and to put things back after cleaning. 

It also makes it easier for my guests as I refer to where things are kept in the Welcome Book, such as the hair dryer can be found in the top drawer. 

Another benefit is that it gives repeat visitors a feeling of familiarity and a sense of 'home from home'.

Keep spares

You will need to have spare batteries and light bulbs in case they need to be replaced during a quick change.

You may also need to replace items if something has been broken or taken.

The likelihood, as a live-in host, is that you will already have most of these items that you use yourself (for example, a kettle) which you can make available to your guest when they first arrive, giving you time to buy a replacement after they have checked in.

Have a routine

I find it easier to have a routine for cleaning. This way it becomes second nature and I don't wonder what I have and haven't cleaned, thus saving me time.

It's best to clean sinks and the floors last to save potentially having to do them twice, as they will be in constant use whilst cleaning.

Preparation

Prepare what you can in advance, for example make sure you have already ironed the sheets as this can be quite time consuming on the day. You may want to quickly iron over any creases before making the bed, or use a steamer.

Clutter

The more things you have out, the more you have to move, dust and clean so it's advisable to limit items you have on display. It's also a good idea to make things easy to move quickly, for example, having items stored together, rather than spread out in different places.

Make things easier

I use silk pillow case protectors on guest pillows, it makes it a lot quicker to put pillow cases on than using cotton ones.

If you provide food, toiletries etc store the replacement items somewhere you can retrieve them quickly for when you are topping up supplies.

Prioritise

If you are very short on time and know you won't be able to achieve everything before your guest arrives, get the rooms you won’t have access to completed first. You can always add things to the bathroom etc once they are in. Although, I would recommend ensuring everything looks clean and tidy before the guest arrives, first impressions count.

Image by FHD511 Ksa511 from Pixabay