Company’s Comin’? Here’s How to Speed-Clean Like a Pro

Company’s Comin’? Here’s How to Speed-Clean Like a Pro

We’ve all been there. That one friend calls and says, “Hey! I’m in the neighborhood—mind if I swing by real quick?”
And just like that, you’re looking around your house thinking… I am not ready for this.

Don’t worry. You don’t need to scrub every baseboard or deep-clean the fridge to make your place feel guest-ready. You just need a game plan—and a little strategic speed-cleaning.

Let me walk you through it, neighbor-style.

• Start With What They’ll See First
  Guests aren’t gonna be poking around in your closet or peeking under the bed. So focus your energy on the spaces they’ll actually be in—like the entryway, living room, guest bathroom, and kitchen (if they’ll be hanging out there).
  Tidy up shoes, wipe off countertops, and fluff those couch pillows. If there’s clutter on surfaces, stash it in a cute basket or drawer—no shame in the hide-and-seek game.
• Tame the Smell Factor
  Nothing makes a home feel clean like it smells clean. Light a candle, simmer a pot of water with cinnamon and vanilla, or spritz a room spray with a fresh scent.
  Got pets? Do a quick check for any “doggy” zones and give them a once-over with a deodorizing spray or a fast vacuum. Don’t underestimate the power of Febreze and a cracked window.
• Hit the Bathroom Like a Tornado
  This is a non-negotiable. Even if the rest of your house is a bit lived-in, a clean bathroom makes everything feel more polished.
  Wipe down the counters, change out the hand towel, give the mirror a quick once-over, and double-check for any… well… surprises in the toilet. It’s worth the two minutes. Trust me.
• Clear Off Flat Surfaces
  Kitchen counters, dining tables, coffee tables—if it’s flat, it’s probably cluttered. And visual clutter makes everything feel messier than it really is.
  Tuck away mail, wipe down surfaces with a multi-surface spray, and clear the clutter hotspots. Suddenly, your whole house feels cleaner.
• Add a Cozy Touch or Two
  This part’s totally optional, but it goes a long way: throw a cozy blanket over the couch, light a lamp in the corner, or set out a bowl of mints or snacks if they’re staying a while.
  It’s not just about making your home look clean—it’s about making it feel inviting. A little warmth goes a long way.

In Conclusion...

Speed-cleaning isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. A clean-ish, welcoming space sets the tone for connection, comfort, and good conversation (even if there’s a laundry basket hiding in the bathtub).

Whether you’ve got guests popping by or you're getting ready to show your home to buyers, knowing how to clean smart—not just hard—is a total game-changer.