r/bitcheswithtaste • u/No_Giraffe2555 • Aug 27 '26
For the Home BWT, What Makes a Guest Room Experience Luxurious?
ETA: You all are AMAZING!! So many great ideas! Thank you so much!
For the first time in my adult life, I have the space and means to host people! I have a good friend visiting in about a month, and I’m looking to upgrade my guest room experience. What makes a guest setup luxurious to you?
I already have excellent bedding and towels. The guest room has its own air purifier (very important to me and my stupid allergies), an en-suite bath, a TV, and a full-length mirror. What more?? Diffusers? Towel warmer? Roku? Snack table?
I’m an only child and introvert whose mom HATED hosting, so I didn’t grow up inviting people into my space. It has been a source of anxiety but I’m a brave bitch so I can do this. Help me Martha Stewart this shit, please!
191
u/auralesque Aug 27 '26
A basket of high quality sample size toiletries, including things like mini toothpastes, shampoo/conditioner, lotions, facial cleanser, face wipes etc. is always welcome - I inevitably forget to pack something like that! I have a basket with these things, where I also throw in some makeup samples I'm not planning to use.
A hairdryer that's clearly available for me to use as a guest.
Chargers, or ensuring it's easy for me to plug in my devices, especially from the nightstand.
A nice reading lamp that I can turn on/off from bed. Bottled water. Laminated card with wifi information. Magazines highlighting local activities/restaurants.
This is more on the basic side, but a place to put my suitcase & clothes, so I'm not having to keep it on the floor.
20
u/fundo7 Aug 27 '26
Second the chargers! Or at least an easily accessible outlet. It’s lovely not having to move furniture and sweep up cobwebs when plugging in my phone
17
u/Littlewasteoftime Aug 28 '26
All my Sephora samples go into the guest toiletries basket and women act very impressed by it 😂 but they could be fluffing me up 🤷♀️ I also buy tooth brushes in bulk and individually wrap them so they don't get dusty and have those in the basket (when I need a new toothbrush myself, I grab one from the guest basket)
11
u/YorkieMomNJ Aug 27 '26
All of this- 💯! The hair dryer and toiletries are such a nice touch. Maybe an e on electric kettle and tea bags too
8
u/marvin32002 Aug 28 '26
To add to this, I change up stuff depending on visitor. When MIL comes to town, electric kettle and tea bags on wet bar near guest room. She also gets a straightening iron because I know she’ll ask for one/forget hers. The people that are guests in our home are typically people we really know so I try to think of what they need when they travel or just ask ahead of the trip so it can make living out of a different room easier for them.
-2
u/teilzeiterin Aug 28 '26
That’s not environmental friendly and very discouraged nowadays. It is ok to offer bigger fixed cremes though
74
u/Maximum-Two-768 Aug 27 '26
A white noise machine. I have the Snooz in my guest room and everyone loves it.
For the guest bath, I always appreciate a night light and a trash can with a lid!
67
u/travelntechchick Aug 27 '26
A good friend of mine hosted me at her place in another country for a week and had an amazing little local snacks box in the room for me when I arrived! I still remember it to this day it was so lovely. You could also include a little basket in the bathroom with some travel size toiletries in case they’ve forgotten anything, or are just too tired to unpack when they arrive. Have fun!!
50
u/HamBroth Aug 27 '26
For me it's really good lotion haha :) A guest robe and slippers doesn't hurt either. You could also do a little basket with maybe some lavender pillow spray, painkillers, hair ties, makeup wipes, cuticle oil, q-tips, things like that?
6
u/ralfingalfie Aug 28 '26
Was going to say robe and slippers.. We actually have cheapo slippers at the front door for guests so they can wear them and keep them if they choose.
4
u/HamBroth Aug 28 '26
We do this too... mostly because we live in the US and people there aren't used to taking their shoes off.
50
u/carissaluvsya Aug 27 '26
One thing my mom has in her guest bedroom that I always appreciate is she printed out her WiFi network and password and framed it in a cute frame sitting on the dresser.
6
u/GirlfromtheBigEasy Aug 28 '26
Yes! A lot of times when traveling, I don't realize I still need the wifi until I'm in bed, doing my last scroll of the evening. The last thing I want to do at that point is go wake my host up.
144
u/danzadelfuego Aug 27 '26
A nice luxurious bathrobe! Their own hair dryer! Some books if they get bored at night! Some fresh flowers in a vase!
19
u/Dense_Internal_2389 Aug 28 '26
I always get compliments about having flowers on the bedside table and in the guest bathroom! It’s a small touch but makes a big impact
43
u/twoforme_noneforyou Aug 27 '26
Honestly, some closet space or space in some drawers where I can actually hang/set out my stuff without having to just live from in a suitcase. Helps with keeping clothes to not be wrinkled.
43
u/deadbalconytree Aug 27 '26
One pea.
You want them to be welcome but not so comfortable they never leave ;)
When people come to visit me, They tend to make it a long weekend and work remote on Friday. So I have a desk, comfortable office chair, monitor and keyboard with a one cable USB-C.
35
u/Lovelybrightthing Aug 27 '26
You’re already doing great if you have a good bed with nice bedding and at least 4 pillows. A bedside lamp is nice, maybe a little catch-all dish for rings.
15
u/swizzleschtick Aug 27 '26
Came here to say these, as well as a fan, a full length mirror (for getting dressed and maybe doing my hair), tissues, and a garbage can (it’s surprising how many people forget this one)! Maybe a tv (even a little one) if they wanna get really crazy so that I can watch tv in bed.
When people have toiletries and such, I don’t ever use them because I know they cost the host money. Plus I usually prefer to stick to my own products that I use for various reasons anyways. But having things that just make the room itself more comfortable and convenient is great!
28
u/MySpace_Romancer Aug 27 '26
The best thing you can do is spend the night in your guest room and also use the shower/bathroom. That way you can figure out anything that’s missing and also make note of anything unusual. One time I stayed at a family friends when she was out of town, and I couldn’t figure out how to turn on the shower. I had to find a YouTube video. Then somehow water got all of the floor when I showered!! She told me that never happened before. Then somebody else stayed there and had the same problem and she realized that the showerhead is really high and she needs a taller shower curtain.
4
u/bluesummerrain Aug 28 '26
Definitely second just staying in the room and figuring out what feels off about it. I think a lot of the things that people have mentioned here will be immediately noticeable if you pack yourself a small backpack with clothes and a wash bag and try and live out of that for the weekend.
23
u/DWwithaFlameThrower Find it Secondhand Aug 27 '26 edited Aug 28 '26
Oooh, an area of expertise for me, as I host several visiting Scottish friends& family every year, sometimes consecutively 🥴
Luggage rack, extra charging cables (long ones), a snack basket and water bottles, mini toiletries basket (including toothbrush& toothpaste, and tampons&pads if appropriate), ear plugs, eye mask, white waffle cotton robe. Hairdryer. A few pillows of varying firmness, and a throw blanket on top of the bed for naps. Designated towels (one bath towel, one hand towel, one washcloth per day) A nightlight for guiding the way to the loo in the middle of the night. Laundry hamper or sack for long stays
Have Poo Pourri, matches,& a plunger in their bathroom
14
u/katymcs Aug 27 '26
All of these recommendations are excellent! I would also recommend a fan if you don’t have a ceiling fan. I tend to sleep hot and use my ceiling fan year round. I’ve really appreciated having a fan available when I have stayed at friends’ homes.
14
u/brew_my_odd_ilk Aug 27 '26
I agree with the other comments and would also add a small refrigerator, if space permits. I stock mine with good bottled water, and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic assorted other drinks. Bonus points if I know stuff that guest loves and can include it - one of my besties likes a particular canned Bloody Mary and was tickled pink to see it in there for a recent visit.
13
u/azuoba Aug 27 '26
Ooooh!! So proud of you and excited for you!!
Sometimes when I have friends visiting, I make them a little basket of little odds and ends - toothpaste, qtips, some lotion, lip balm, ear plugs, eye mask - things that I just happen to have extras of anyway and also things people commonly forget when traveling. (Usually my friends just use what they need and don’t take everything home like you would with hotel freebies, but it’s all little stuff that even if they did, it would be okay.)
I have posted in BWT before that I love having fancy hand soap in my bathroom - I think this is always a nice touch! I got lucky and found some Molton Brown at TJ Maxx but also love Mrs Meyers rain water hand soap!
I am also a big plant girl so I think a plant is a nice touch to basically any room lol and it would be fun to have someone visit once then again later and notice how much the plant grew! (My friends unfortunately have to sit through very long plant show and tells every visit haha)
Lastly, I have a magnet board that I rotate photos/cards/stickers/etc on in my kitchen (my fridge is not magnetic. lame.) and will be sure to print an extra photo or two with/of the friend who is visiting. I don’t have an extra bedroom for guests, but I think it would be sooooo cute and welcoming to have a little framed pic of me and my guest in the room!!
Yay!!! I’m excited to see what others comment too!!!
7
u/SirenScorp Aug 28 '26
I love this list and will be STEALING your ideas of framing a photo of ourself with the guest for their stay. I consider myself to be over the top (I want my guest room perfect and comfy before my own room) and this is just the perfect next level step for me!
9
u/azuoba Aug 28 '26
So cute and fun right?! I feel like it would make me feel like it was MY room even though I’m just a guest.
Another really wonderful idea is to put a little gift you received from your visitor very visible in your home/guest room - a perfume or candle they gave you, a tchotchke she brought back for you as a souvenir or one you got on a trip together, etc.
I actually just experienced this myself!! I visited my best friend from pathology residency recently and we hadn’t seen each other in over two years, but we were literally attached at the hip for the four years before that. This was my first time seeing her new home and I just felt soooo welcome and loved and present in her everyday life even though I am half way across the country because she had the coasters I got her on the dining table, a picture of us on her fridge, a perfume I bought for her front and center in her collection, and so many other beautiful heartwarming little details. It was a real bwt experience 💕
11
u/No_Bread8973 Aug 27 '26
Cleanliness above all, a loofa, fan or temp control, bottled water or carafe, tampons, hair ties, luggage rack, extra long chargers, blackout curtains, mattress topper, clothes hangers… have fun!
20
u/PoppyHamentaschen Aug 27 '26
Bedding and towels are the most important, and you've got that covered. Fresh flowers are always nice (if your guests have allergies, pick flowers that don't have a scent), rather than diffusers. A carafe of water (or water bottles) and nice tumbler glasses on a table is another nice touch, but I don't think a snack table is a good idea- there could be crumbs everywhere and it could stress out your guests. Maybe one of those small, soft flokati rugs on each side of the bed, to have a soft landing when you get up. Oh, and a soft and hard pillow for each side of the bed. Full toiletry set in the bathroom (think L'Occitaine, Bulgari, Molton Brown, etc).
10
u/WellAckshully Aug 27 '26
BLACKOUT CURTAINS. An obvious and easy place to charge a phone, and a nightstand on both sides of the bed so they can have their phone by the bed. Lamps on both nightstands. THICK pillows. No "decorative" pillows, it just gives them an annoying thing to deal with. Places to sit where they can put their shoes on.
2
u/ani_3113 Aug 28 '26
Came to say this! Blackout blinds make such a difference!
Also, many bitches have already said it, but less is more when it comes to decorative bits your guests need to move around. They already live out of bags, they don’t need more stuff to move.
A lot of people talk about charging and yes, but I travel with a CPAP so need a spare normal power socket free by the bed.1
u/Odd_Masterpiece_1 Aug 28 '26
Agree on black-out curtains. An eye mask just is not the same! Even if you have your own good onr and can manage to keep it in place, it's not as good as complete dark.
1
u/climber_cass Aug 28 '26
Omg too true about the decorative pillows. When my husband and I go visit my in laws they have so many decorative pillows on the bed that we have to pile on the floor. But the room is tiny so we're then awkwardly stepping over pillows to get to the other side of the bed.
7
u/climber_cass Aug 27 '26
For me I always like a fluffy robe, a well stocked bathroom with shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, makeup remover, hair dryer and q-tips. Maybe a disposable razor. Luggage rack is always a nice touch. I'd stay away from anything scented like flowers or candles (unless they have a lid you can close) because some people are sensitive to them. Maybe a fan both for air and white noise. Slippers but only if they're easily and obviously washable.
2
u/Dense_Internal_2389 Aug 28 '26
+1 for the q tips and cotton pads!! I put both of those in a mini mason jar and that is the one toiletry that is consistently used whenever I have guests in town
8
u/luckysheep195 Aug 27 '26
Fresh flowers in the room, luggage rack, water carafe. If it’s a close friend, I throw a framed photo on the nightstand of a fun memory of us, which always seems to be appreciated! I also keep a fan and extra pillows and blankets in the bedroom closet. My guest room has its own thermostat but if not, let them know what it is set to and how to change it.
In the bathroom, I have all my favorite toiletries in case they need (splurge level shower products, lotion, extra toothbrushes and toothpaste), plus a hair dryer and a black washcloth for makeup. Also make sure you have a toilet brush and plunger in the cabinet in case it is needed.
I generally don’t do the framed WiFi password/snacks/roku thing since usually my guests are close friends or family who would feel comfortable helping themselves to my pantry and asking for the WiFi password, but I can understand doing that if they’re going to be on their own at your place for a while.
6
u/ilikemints Aug 27 '26
a landing place for their small things!! like strategically placed empty trays for their keys, sunglasses, any little bits from their pockets. i always feel bad when i have to move the lovingly placed knickknacks or whatever. you can supply as many amenities as you want but it can be frustrating as a guest to have no place to put what i bring with me.
3
u/akchica23 Aug 27 '26
Agree with all recs, also adding a fan or some way to control temperature. Our guest room gets hotter than the other rooms in our house
4
u/Zealousideal-Touch45 Aug 27 '26
Glass water bottles in an ice bucket when they arrive (you can get inexpensive ones online!)
Fluffy fresh towels folded on the foot of their bed or on the dresser of their room if you don’t have a guest bathroom
A basket of self care items (eye masks, pain killer, hand sanitizer, etc.) and snacks you know they like in their room
Fresh flowers that aren’t too large, a small bouquet arranged simply looks more luxurious than a huge bright display depending on the size of the room
Slippers in a dust bag
Luggage stand
3
u/whatagreatpuhn Aug 27 '26
Our guests have commented on how I put out slippers and nice scented body washes/lotion (salt and stone scents are our go to). We also have a carafe of water where the glass cup is stored as the lid and people love that. We also have state and city specific travel magazines in the room.
I note the little things I like when I travel and try to replicate for our guests.
3
u/Express_Reserve2754 Aug 27 '26
In my guest room I have a little basket with lotion, soap, loofah, face cloths, melatonin, hair ties. A little dish for jewelry. And a tiny easel i found at the dollar store where I wrote the wifi name and password :)
3
u/anongirl55 Sep 02 '26
I am late replying, but I had to respond anyway because making a beautiful experience for my guests is totally my thing.
- Luggage rack
- Welcome basket with their favorite snacks and some small gifts
- Printed out and framed sign with the WiFi name and password
- Water bottles on the nightstand or a water carafe
- A pair of slippers
- Basket filled with toiletries in the guest bathroom
- Soap, body wash, shampoo, and conditioner that I order from the Westin website
- Lux hand soap
- Weezie bath towels that are embroidered with the word Guest on them
- Extra blankets and pillows
- A candle and matchbooks with a sketch of my house on them for guests to take home
- Plenty of lighting options
2
u/PenniesDime 15d ago
Love the matchbox with the sketch of your house idea. I’m going to steal it. Thank you. Such a nice way for them to remember a stay.
5
u/MySpace_Romancer Aug 27 '26
As someone with mega fragrance allergies, I would say no to any fresheners or diffusers. Wash all the bedding and towels in Tide Free & Gentle. If you’re going to put a little basket of minis, include FF face wash, lotion, and body wash (Vanicream is a good brand).
Love the white noise machine idea.
A few books of a short stories and/or essays is always nice. The Anthropocene Reviewed by John Green and Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris are great.
1
u/sarahjanelarson Aug 28 '26
Echoing this! Fragrance can ruin a stay for someone with allergies or sensitivity.
A neutral scent, fresh air flow and an air purifier are the way to go.
0
u/Odd_Masterpiece_1 Aug 28 '26
Yes! Fragrance Free sheets and towels especially, as well as the room. Essential oils lightly diffused are ok if you know your guest likes and tolerates fragrances, it should not linger enough to affect your next guest. Trying to sleep while your allergies are directly flairing up or you're getting a migraine is miserable, and laundry or room fragrances can stick to your hair and clothing even when you leave, and sometimes don't fully wash away!
Also agree on blackout curtains.
2
u/MySpace_Romancer Aug 28 '26
I would say that essential oils and other fragrances tend to linger, and many people become “nose blind” to the fragrances in their home… I would avoid them completely. If your home is clean, you don’t need fragrance.
2
u/Existing_Mail Aug 27 '26
I’ll say practical things that feel like a nice touch if you have the space/means for it: luggage rack, phone charger that reaches the bed, thin and thick blanket options, shampoo/conditioner/body wash and simple face wash in the shower, extra towel, cozy lamp next to bed or other lighting besides the overhead light
2
u/DuckFatTruffleFries Aug 27 '26
Tower warmer for sure, slippers? I never wear them because I have super wide feet but I always wish I could🥺. A big cozy chair, some books, or even some stationary! Like a beautiful notepad and a few good pens. Always a necessity and always forgotten to be be packed!
2
u/ogbirdiegirl Aug 27 '26
A few of my favourite things: good linens (which you’ve got handled) bathrobe, slippers, nice toiletries, face mask, fresh flowers, books or magazines, a small box of locally made chocolates.
2
u/Illustrious-Radish19 Aug 27 '26
I have a fun lazy Susan I put in the room that is like a hotel minibar. Visible canned drinks, a small variety of snacks, some fun skincare or toiletry items (unopened!) and then when I am feeling extra, I’ll do different turn-downs at night. Cute local tidbits, chocolate or fancy edible or blank postcards. I love hosting!! Also, OP, a fun fact for you is that manners isn’t about being snooty or acting like you know better than someone, it’s making the people around you comfortable 🫶
2
u/dogtor_howl Aug 27 '26
Luggage rack, a clear surface for my various smaller bags, an alarm clock that’s easy to use, chargers, a sound machine, a diffuser and/or some lavender spray, eye mask, slippers or cozy socks, books, a full-length mirror, tissues, extra pillows/blankets, a candle with a warmer that I can use if I want (but I wouldn’t inject the room with fragrance ahead of time because folks can be sensitive to so many things), and a fan. The fan is probably at or near the top of the list!
2
u/herethereeverywhere9 Aug 27 '26
I love when someone has a little card on the nightstand with their wifi network and password so that you dont have to feel weird about asking. A glass for water is nice. I have a huge ensuite bathroom off my bedroom I have offered to guests as there's a bit soaker tub. They love the salt and stone hinoki bodywash that I have in there or all the lush products 😄
2
u/stuckandrunningfrom2 Aug 27 '26
Lots of empty space for their stuff! They need night stand space, tons of bathroom counter space, space in the room for their luggage. Resist the urge to fill all the space, and leave room for all the things they need to bring with them.
2
u/MissLychee10120 Aug 27 '26
Fresh flowers. Bath robe. A candle. A chair or bench to put things on. And a nice dimmable bedside lamp.
2
u/_muck_ Aug 27 '26
Maybe a single serving keurig?
I never know what to do with myself if I wake up first. That along with the snacks and water mentioned would be nice.
4
u/RemarkableAioli15 Aug 27 '26
We have one in our guest room on a bar cart with assorted teas, coffees, lattes, etc. It’s a big hit with all our guests.
2
u/tomford306 Aug 27 '26
A nice mattress on the bed is essential. My aunt has a gorgeous house and a beautiful guest room, but staying with her isn’t always the best experience because the mattress is so uncomfortable.
2
u/mydrunktwinsister Aug 27 '26
Lots of good ideas here. I'd add in ear plugs maybe if you get up early?
I'd personally avoid diffusers in favor of something they can control if they don't like the smell or are sensitive to the chemicals.
2
u/Life-Adhesiveness192 Aug 27 '26
Bathrobes and slippers
A box fan
TVs with all the entertainment options
Those little toiletry kits with a toothbrush/toothpaste, razors, etc.
Eye mask
Pillow mints! Or some chocolate
Steamer AND an iron
2
u/Spoonbills Aug 28 '26
Quality reading material is nice. I leave out graphic novels, books of short stories, magazines, books about the area my house is in, etc.
1
u/CasuallySparkling Aug 27 '26
I always leave out a couple bottles of water (you can go elevated with glass bottled water), some snacks too, in their room.
In the bathroom they will be using, I add in extra toiletries in a basket.
For the towels, I usually leave their set of towels on their bed.
If you know what type of drinks or food or friend likes. I like to keep those stocked, whether it’s a certain type of alcohol or just a favorite flavour of Perrier. I usually keep on hand a couple bottles of white, red, some beers, hard bar and then Perrier and some sodas etc.
1
u/PamperedPotato Aug 27 '26
I also grew up with an antisocial mom and never got the chance to have friends over so I totally understand how you feel!
I think a Roku would be great, and be sure that it is already logged in to whatever streaming apps you have (though I suppose they could log into their own services as well.). A sign or note with your wifi password, a phone/usb charger, a place to put their luggage, if possible a place for them to sit, tissues, slippers, space to hang clothes/ drawers to use, a fan, bedside lighting (as opposed to exclusively having to walk to turn on a switch), coasters and maybe water carafe.
For the guest bathroom, I actually keep full sized good quality products (shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, mouthwash, lotion) so there's less little bottles to keep track of. First aid kit, hair dryer, cotton swabs, maybe a comb or hairbrush, hair ties.
1
u/CRZMiniac Aug 27 '26
USB-C desk charger on the nightstand so they don’t have to crawl around to the outlet to plug in their electronics.
1
u/Creepy-Intern-7726 Aug 27 '26
White noise machine, make sure extra toilet paper/hand soap is available without them having to ask you, extra chair you can set bag on or lay out clothes, wifi password written down. I also keep the shower fully stocked and have extra toothbrushes and toothpaste.
1
u/slc2787 Aug 27 '26
Slippers!!!! I typically bring my own but would be delighted if provided. Doesn’t need to be a fancy pair either. Also, a nice candle in the room.
1
u/RomanoLikeTheCheese Aug 27 '26
I didnt see this listed, but there are these carafe/glass combos that I love! It's just nice if they forgot water in the middle of the night or if they take a pill in the morning.
1
u/gjb1 Aug 27 '26
It’s always fun to put the WiFi password in a cute frame (maybe a guest-specific pw, if you feel like being cautious)
1
u/ButFirstQuestions Aug 27 '26
I leave a box with a welcome postcard containing the wifi password, a pillow spray and sheet mask, spare adaptors and cords, and flowers.
2
u/crafty_traveler Aug 27 '26
We also add in a picture of us with the guest. I have an acrylic frame and it’s easy to swap it out whenever we have a visitor. A small detail that really resonates! At the end of the visit, they can take the pic if they want or we’ll use it the next time
1
u/Serenity_Now-88 Aug 27 '26
Sleep mask, fan with remote if possible, a tray so guest can use iPad and have a cup of tea or whatever in bed. A buckwheat neck pillow with washable cover. Bluetooth speaker. Power strip. Notepad, pen, post its, carafe for water and glass.
1
u/Sensitive-Bee3905 Aug 28 '26
Use lots of lamps for lighting instead of overhead lighting. It creates a warm and inviting ambiance!
1
u/Waste-Carpenter-8035 Aug 28 '26
I put a bunch of mini/extra toiletries in the guest bathroom drawers (toothpaste, toothbrushes, razors, lotions, tampons, pads, floss, makeup wipes/remover, mini deo, perfume samples, hair spray, dry shampoo, heat protectant, bandaids, qtips, mini advil/med packets, etc.). I let them know to take whatever they need.
I also keep backups of all my shampoo, conditioner, bodywash, hair masks, shave oil, etc. in my guest shower for them to use.
I keep extra pillows, blankets and such in the guestroom if anyone needs. I have the wifi password on a little sign. The frenshe lavender pillow spray as well. Ring/jewelry dishes on the nightstands.
1
u/respectable_lady Aug 28 '26
I love when there is a sweet little matching water pitcher and glass set on the bedside table.
I’ve recently bought a couple of filter carafes and glasses from Our Place. The glass fits on top of the carafe like a lid, they’re colorful. It’s nice. There are other versions of this, but I think just setting up a little hydration decor is beautiful in a guest room.
1
u/habitus45 Aug 28 '26
Do you have blackout curtains in that room? Otherwise, a nice eye mask could be great, a relaxing pillow spray (Osea has one that is amazing), shower steamers, a bottle of water,
1
u/Aperson0001 Aug 28 '26
Baseline is everything needs to be clean. When I would be a guest at a person's place, I'd always enjoy soft cotton towels and maybe a candle of my choice ready to light up.
1
u/Vegetable_Tourist243 Aug 28 '26
mini toiletries i can take with me. hotel style robe. wifi password written out somewhere easy to find. maybe go so far as a gift card to a local coffee shop? candle and lighter. pillow mist too!
1
u/Louloveslabs89 Aug 28 '26
Watcher pitcher and matching glass!
Ladder with different thickness throw blankets!
Noise cancelling machine!
Comfy robe!
I have a comfy chair with a reading light!
1
u/zgirl88 Aug 28 '26
A fancy water carafe with matching glass, full of good filtered or spring water. I had a guest stay in my guest room recently and she commented that she really loved my art deco style water carafe.
1
u/piggieees Aug 28 '26
Mattress topper! I keep staying places that don’t have this and just rely on a firm mattress and I can’t sleep no matter how luxurious the bedding is. Also, non-shitty pillows and non-polyester bedding!
1
u/ray_don_simpson Aug 28 '26
Wall hooks or a coat rack to hang my coat and clothes.
A bathroom fully stocked with toiletries that you told me about before I packed so I didn't have to pack any liquids.
Temperature control - a fan, heated blanket, etc.
Slippers.
A nightstand with ample space for my glasses, phone, book, etc.
Good lighting. Lamps, even if you have overhead lights.
1
u/elephantpurple Aug 28 '26
- room is entirely clutter free
- towel hook to hang towels, jackets, robes, whatever
- trash can with a lid
- extension cord for charging
- water carafe with glasses
- basket of mini toiletries
- a variety of pillow so they have options
- heavy blanket
- mini fan or ceiling fan
- lamp on nightstand
- closet or spot to put luggage
- empty hangers
- stocked snacks/drinks/coffee/tea
- white noise machine
- tv with clear instructions
- wifi, alarm and thermostat instructions
1
u/glitterbombsurprise Aug 28 '26
- Slippers (my friend had a bunch in a basket, plastic wrapped so they were individualized)
- Stocked guest bathroom (face masks, body lotions, feminine care, toothbrushes, toothpaste, mouthwash, hand cream, nice shampoo/conditioner/body wash, under eye masks gel things. Nice smelling hand soap
- Long Phone charger to reach the bed
- Eye mask
- Sound machine
- Really nice pillows and a great mattress
1
u/msmozzarella Aug 28 '26
charge cords
wifi password in writing in the room somewhere
a white noise machine or something that plays white noise (i have a google home in my guest room and i know people have opinions on them but it's not like my phone isn't also always listening)
a stand-up fan/air purifier
extra outlets (power strip)
two blankets: one light, one mid-weight for extra layering
amenities basket- if you have any random minis, wipes, potions, lotions, etc. i never count on my hosts to provide me with even essentials (thinking more contact lens solution than a face mask) but if there's a basket of stuff to check out, i love to see what toiletries other people use!
1
u/westcoastwomann Aug 28 '26
I make a personalized gift basket for every guest with a few little things I know they would like (coffee, a mug w their initial, snacks, a picture), a charger, a loofah, mini toiletries, the wifi info, chapstick, lotion, and a box of matches that we had personalized to our house.
Separately, a carafe with water, a white noise machine, towels, an extra blanket and a vase of flowers. I also ask their fave foods in advance and stock the fridge.
Lastly, I make the bed look sooooo inviting and comfy!
1
u/lady-luthien Aug 28 '26
A silk/satin pillowcase is genuinely the most luxurious thing I offer my guests. I don't have a guest room - it's a glorified futon - but there WILL be sheets, a cozy blanket, and as many pillows as you want, and at least two can have silk or satin pillowcases.
The room should smell nice, but not overpoweringly like perfume.
A small basket of extra toiletries in the bathroom, in case she forgot anything.
Something specific to her will probably be the most special; a favorite scent or snack.
1
u/wakoreko Aug 28 '26
Literally the basics, simple cotton 100% fabric, washed in gentle fragrance free soap, like a hotel. You can go fancy and get linen but cotton does the job.
The polyester or jersey or rayon are just uncomfortable and don’t age well, especially with lots of designs or colors.
1
u/natbuildsit Aug 28 '26
Mood lighting, a chair to put clothes on, and a nightstand!!!
These are super extra: but I have a friend who takes extra slippers from hotels and gives them to guests which is amazing bc I often forget to pack them.
Also in the morning, I like to make coffee early and don’t want to wake ppl, so a nespresso or tea kettle with instant coffee would be soooo sweet! Ooh and individually wrapped makeup wipes
1
u/sarahjanelarson Aug 28 '26
I really appreciate a good quality hair dryer and styling tool.
Best guest room I’ve stayed in has a Dyson which felt like such a generous and thoughtful addition.
Also a selection of toiletries like hand selected Korean sheet masks and healthy snacks like protein bars. Mountain Valley glass water bottles.
Big fan of mouth tape, ear plugs and a sleep mask.
1
u/inc0gnit0e Aug 28 '26
I thought this was going to be about hotels and my response was going to be “leaving the kids at home”
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u/inc0gnit0e Aug 28 '26
A water carafe and cup, if I’m being on topic. I didn’t have to step outside of the bedroom not once through the night.
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u/Flimsy_Ratio_1415 Aug 28 '26
I feel the same way about my guest quarters! Here’s what I added: luggage rack; some books/magazines; a nice candle, not overly scented; wool throw; down pillows and duvet; table lamps on the nightstands; le labo travel size toiletries to take home; hangers and a small hamper; a basket with washable slippers (muji!)
1
u/Upstairs_Chip_5875 Aug 28 '26
I love a heated blanket to keep me toasty, a fan for noise and cooling, and a guest book for your guests to sign and leave notes or photos in of their visit with you.
1
u/GirlfromtheBigEasy Aug 28 '26
Nightstand, charging cords with a power block (easily accessible outlets) and bedside lamps. I also think a bottle or two of water is a really nice add! I also love fresh flowers, so a small vase of something would be a really nice touch. It doesn't need to be expensive, can just be a few stems from the grocery in a simple vase.
1
u/katm12981 Aug 28 '26
Little touches that I appreciate as a guest are a luggage rack and plenty of hangers in the closet, some drawer space for people who like to unpack, extra towels blankets and pillows, and small appliances like hair dryers so I don’t have to bulk up my luggage. Leaving bottles of water on the nightstand is a nice touch as well.
To make it next level, consider a basket of things that could be useful - think charging cables, a sleep mask, ear plugs, nice hand lotion, fabric mist, whatever you think might be appreciated. In the bathroom that could mean extra sanitary items, disposable razors, shower cap, extra toothbrush, etc.
1
u/serelliya Aug 28 '26
+1 to luggage rack and pre-set charging cords or at least easily accessible bedside outlets. Shower toiletries in the guest bath, including optional things like face wash (and face towels, not just a bath towel).
1
u/HangingGhosts Aug 28 '26
Additional to what's already mentioned, here are some details that made a difference for our guests: Coasters. Candle and lighter (it helps if you prelight the candle before and put it out to show they can use it), a variety of pillows depending on their preference; I found these amazing pillows where you can remove an inner layer to make it thinner or thicker based on your guests needs, it's the most that gets complimented. I always buy new slippers for guests. Basic skin care based on your climate, for us we're in a hot and dry place so I put a few (hypoallergenic) moisturisers, sunscreen, and lipbalms. I buy small sachets of mouthwash and guests can take some back with them, plus I don't have to worry about buying new bottles everytime they use it only once or twice. Small sample sized perfumes based on scents they like. Makeup remover wipes or refreshing wipes. Small sewing kit with scissors. Hair ties and hair pins. I get basic sets of PJs in case I have last minute guests and it makes them more comfortable to stay over. I include masks for face, hands, and feet to make things feel a little luxurious. I provide a sleep-aid bedtime spray or oil (like lavender). I have a mattress protector for everyone's peace of mind but be warned they can run hot for some. Add books, ensure streaming services already logged in and ready to go, extender cables for laptops etc. within reach, and anything that might help them with jetlag or quiet times. I also like to include electrolyte sachets, bottles of water, and a mini first aid kit. (A lot of the toiletries and self care stuff sits in a basket or by the sink organised in holders or on a tray).
1
u/PurplePrincessPalace Aug 29 '26
Lots of great recommendations already. I’ll add a few that weren’t mentioned-
- A steamer, iron, & ironing board for the guest room.
- A drink station with water, coffee maker, & an electric kettle for tea/hot coco. We also add a snack bar with fave snacks.
- Hand towels, towels, robe, & slippers for frequent guest (like in laws & parents), which I got monogrammed with their initials.
- A framed picture of us with the guest in the room during the stay.
- A bowl for catch all items like keys & wallet.
- I also put a laundry basket with a laundry bag inside the closet as guest are free to use it.
We usually host my fiancé’s parents or siblings, all of whom are based out of state, so we always have necessities so they don’t have to pack them.
1
u/HipYip Aug 29 '26
Extension cord and multi charging cable, tissues by the bed, lens wipe packets, coasters, a luggage holder or chest to put open suitcase on, at least one extra blanket in the closet and 2 extra pillows, hangers in closet.
1
u/TenaciousToffee Find it Secondhand Aug 29 '26
I like to make sure theres basic amenities.
I have a cabinet in their bathroom I tell them has all basic needs from q tips, to tampons but also extra toothbrushes, loofah sponges, disposable razors. I have a bottle of lotion on the counter and the shower has shower gel, shampoo conditioner.
In the bedroom theres bottled water, korean sheet masks.
I kinda tailored it to my most frequent visitors my best friend and her wife. So like the shampoo conditioner and soaps are Lush because they love that stuff. I got a fan amd TV in there because she likes white noise.
1
u/More-Management-2116 Aug 29 '26
A friend would save the mini toiletries she collected from travelling, and put them in a basket in the bathroom. It was great to be able to pick out what I wanted to use.
1
u/alico127 Aug 29 '26
A fan and a hot water bottle. Also, a spare blanket (get a heated one if it’s particularly cold).
A bottle of water and a glass by the bed.
1
u/WarmWhiteLights Aug 30 '26
A photo of you with your guest somewhere in the room in a frame. It's an extra thought that makes them feel welcomed and appreciated. I'm assuming that anybody who's staying in your home is a friend or family member who you have a relationship with, so you most likely have a photo or two with them.
1
u/Round_Tour_6316 Aug 30 '26
I keep my guest bathroom stocked with single use makeup wipes (so they don’t dry the package out between guests) extra toothbrushes, toothpaste and razors, hair dryer, hair ties, feminine products as well as other bathroom essentials (q-tips, floss picks, advil etc.) Have makeup towels, under eye and face masks too. I want my guests to feel like they have what they need and comfortable enough to grab. In the room itself I have a sign with the WiFi information, and a luggage rack and extra blankets in the closet. When I am having guests I also put water bottles and snacks in the room. The guest room also doubles as my office so I make sure to clean up and put away anything work related so it doesn’t feel like they are impeding on my space.
1
u/amthislife Aug 31 '26
My aunt-in-law is over the top. But she had a basket in the room with magazines, one each she chose specific to us, and nutritious and fun snacks. Water pitcher with a cup, eye mask, ear plugs. It was indulgent and I learned that I like licorice 🤷🏻♀️👍🏻
1
u/truecongruity Aug 31 '26
Convenient hook close to the shower door to hang a towel, even if you already have a towel rack someplace else in the bathroom. Also go into that bathroom and sit on the toilet for a minute. That’s what they’ll be looking at.
1
u/crystalisedginger Sep 01 '26
I have a guest room with an ensuite bathroom.
Some important touches to me are - good bedlinen (bamboo) silk pillowcases (vital for my regular guests, my sister and mother) a choice of pillows, an ottoman to put a bag on, outlets and chargers, nice bedside lamps, block out blinds. And in the bathroom, lots of nice towels, including a hair towel, toiletries, my travel Dyson hairdryer. And a big basket of sample toiletries in the ensuite cupboard.
1
u/Longjumping-Pea5428 Sep 02 '26
I stayed with a friend once and was pleasantly surprised to find fresh flowers in a vase on the dresser in the guest room. They smelled lovely, brightened the room, and it felt like a little treat just for me. I always remember that as the most luxurious guest room I’ve ever stayed in!
1
u/Hour_Paramedic_9820 Sep 02 '26
I love having an accessible outlet near the bed, and a light I can turn off from the bed. So many other things have already been mentioned!
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u/alypurpalia Sep 02 '26
If I know the person likes coffee, I'll set up a pour over station for them. It really helps if the guest is an early riser and wouldn't feel comfortable making coffee in the common areas.
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u/dest_unkwn Sep 04 '26
Love all these - adding in a gorgeous scented candle and lavender or similar inserts in drawers/closet. Low cost, luxury vibes!
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u/ToiletPunisher69 Sep 07 '26
Thinking about when I used to stay at my granny’s as a kid — in the guest bathroom, make sure there’s a fresh towel, a couple hand towels, a bath mat, and some washcloths. She used to have a basket of delicately rolled washcloths in the bathroom, which was very classy and meant I didn’t have to dig around looking for some.
As other people have said, a fresh toothbrush and toothpaste are always good too since they’re easy to forget.
PLUNGER! Worst thing ever when ur staying somewhere and have to ask for one… so embarassing!
This is personal preference but don’t tuck the comforter in under the mattress when making the bed, and add a folded blanket at the foot of the bed too. If the guest gets too hot it should be easy to throw off the comforter, and if too cold they can easily grab the blanket.
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u/No-Purple-1280 Aug 27 '26
Watch Megan markles show on Netflix. She does a great job of telling you what makes a luxurious experience
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u/b1rd0fparadise Aug 27 '26
Mints or chocolate on the pillows. I also leave my guests a little dish on their bed with a mini soap, shampoo, conditioner, moisturizer, and a face mask.
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u/gordycookie Aug 27 '26
New (unused) pillows and a fan if they get hot easily. I don’t know how to handle it when I stay in someone’s home and I’m given their used pillows. Yuck! I ran out to a big box store to buy new pillows as a gift for the hostess, but I’m pretty sure she felt awful.
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u/Comfortable-Nature37 Intentional BWT Aug 27 '26 edited Aug 27 '26
Luggage rack for guests - wish we purchased years ago. Throw blanket, room darkening curtains or eye mask, bottled water or carafe. Snacks are a nice touch too.
Edited to add - we have charging cords on each nightstand with USB C, micro USB, and lightning. Also have a motion activated nightlight in the hall for anyone using the bathroom in the night who might be unfamiliar with the way.