The "Company's Coming" Get-It-Clean Checklist

Clear out the fridge to make room for the food you'll need for company.

Change guest bedroom linens, vacuum, and make space in closets and drawers for your guests' belongings.

Check inventory of guest towels and toiletries.

Launder tablecloths and linens. (Pull them out of the dryer immediately to avoid the need for ironing.)

Declutter common areas. Tight on time? Deposit stray items in a large basket and stash it in an out-of-the-way spot. Set a reminder to unpack it once the holidays are over.

Dust and wipe down mirrors and furniture.

Clean guest bath and powder room, placing anything nonessential in a basket under the sink. Add fresh hand towels and refresh the supply of soap and toilet paper.

Launder pet beds and change kitty litter.

Lay out your outfit for tomorrow.

Empty garbage and sweep floors.