12 Items to Hide Before Guests Walk Through the Door

Do you ever get that sinking feeling when guests arrive that you've left something out that you really don't want them to see?

You're not alone. From the dog running around carrying a pair of my unmentionables in his mouth to my mom inspecting a grubby dishcloth, I've been embarrassed several times when visitors come calling.

Up your game for guests. Create a warm and inviting environment, and ensure you put away these 12 items when they visit.

1. Underwear

As mentioned, guests do not need to see your underwear. Ever. It's embarrassing for them and you, especially if you have a penchant for day-of-the-week panties.

Have a clear round, make sure the laundry hamper lid is secure if you have an inquisitive pet, and put clean laundry away before your guests arrive.

2. Dirty Dishes

Ensure you wash up and put away dirty dishes, especially if you're having guests over for dinner. The detritus from a meal is never pleasant to look at, especially if you're about to sit down and eat.

If you're short on time, pile all the dirties in the dishwasher and close the door. Just make sure you have enough clean tableware and cutlery first!

3. Personal Hygiene Items

We all have a slew of deodorant, toothpaste, and medication in the bathroom, but guests really don't need to see that stuff.

If you don't have a guest cloakroom and visitors will use your main bathroom, it's best to put your personal hygiene and beauty items away.

4. Personal Documents

We have a big pile of mail in our hallway, usually with a bill on top! The pile is usually a bit messy and does not give a welcoming feel when guests arrive.

When people are coming, I dump the whole lot in a drawer and check our kitchen notice board, too, in case I've pinned something urgent there.

5. Recycling

We don't have room for a separate bin in our kitchen, so there's always a pile of recycling waiting to go out to the bin. A pile of garbage is not really what I want my guests to encounter!

Make sure garbage is bagged or binned before visitors arrive, and have a check around for any other waste that may have been overlooked.

6. Toys and Games

Children's toys can be a trip hazard and make any room look messy and cluttered, especially if the kids are already in bed!

Have a quick sweep around to scoop up toys and games, making sure to collect any small items like Lego bricks that really hurt when you stand on them!

7. Pet Stuff

If you have pets, there will inevitably be toys, treats, and food and water bowls around. Perhaps you have a cat litter box lurking by the back door.

Other pet owners will get this, but it's best to put these items away, especially if your guests bring children. It's safer and helps your home to feel more welcoming.

8. Valuable Knick-Knacks

If you have items that hold personal or monetary value, it might be wise to put them away, especially before a party when lots of people will be milling around.

Accidents can and do happen. When precious items get broken, the host will be upset, and the guest will feel awkward, which is not a great vibe for a party.

9. Hobby Items

Maybe you build model aircraft, practice witchcraft, or like jigsaws. Perhaps decoupage or crochet is more your thing. Whatever your hobby or craft, your guests probably aren't that interested and won't want to be faced with your hobbyist kit.

Put everything away when people come to call to create a relaxed and calm environment for their visit.

10. Coats, Shoes and Bags

Like most homes, you probably have a coat rack or hooks by the front door where you kick off your shoes and dump your outerwear and bags when you get home after a long day.

You may not be able to remove all the jackets and shoes but put some in a bedroom to make way for your guests' coats and footwear and put your bag away out of sight.

11. Everyday Clutter

12. Personal Items

Anything deeply personal should be put away in a cupboard somewhere. We all own and use items we don't want others to see; it would be embarrassing for both parties!

Have a quick sweep round before your guests arrive and make sure those private and confidential items are hidden away.

We all have stuff lying around our homes – magazines, devices, a coat hanging on the back of a chair, and chargers are just a few items I can see as I write.

Putting items like this away will create a stress-free and welcoming atmosphere, helping your guests feel comfortable in your home.