Although the busiest entertaining season is upon us, few homeowners have time to spend readying their homes for holiday houseguests and last- minute gatherings. According to Tara Aronson, lifestyle expert and author of "Mrs. Clean Jeans' Housekeeping with Kids," preparing your home does not have to take away from enjoying time with friends and family and the joys of the holiday season.
"Break the cleaning process into manageable loads," advises Aronson. "Tackle problem areas that your guests will notice when they first enter your home- entryways, floors and the kitchen-and skip areas that won't play a role in your entertaining." Aronson adds that focusing on specific areas rather than the whole house will allow time to decorate and create an inviting atmosphere for guests. The following tips will quickly have your home prepared for holiday entertaining while impressing last-minute houseguests:
• Pick a Room to Keep Clean. If you can't keep your entire home visitor-ready, resolve to keep at least one room clean, organized and visitor-ready. If your company often gathers in the kitchen, focus on cleaning appliances that work overtime during holiday cooking. Keep counters clutter-free and dust surfaces at eye level. To quickly rejuvenate and add shine to countertops, try Weiman Granite Wipes on granite, marble and other stone surfaces.
• It's Teatime. It's the holiday season-expect the unexpected visitor. Always have tea and coffee on hand that can be easily brewed or perked at a moment's notice. Consider having biscotti, scones, muffins and tea cookies in your pantry and keep the fridge stocked with cheese and fruits. Be sure to keep your favorite holiday serving dish on hand.
• Polish Party Ware. Keep your seasonal soiree tarnish-free. Give brass, copper, silver, gold, stainless steel, chrome and aluminum a quick but gentle cleaning with Weiman Metal Polish. Freshen silver serving ware and decorations with Weiman Silver Polish. The pleasant-smelling polish fends off tarnish and the gentle formula won't scratch fine silver.
• Get Your Swag On. At night, invite guests into your home with a twinkling trail of votive candles-in glass holders or decorative, weighted paper bags-on the walkway to your front door. By day, let swags of plant material or richly colored indoor-outdoor ribbon welcome visitors. Simple, inexpensive touches such as these can add a festive note that guests will detect even before they are welcomed inside.
• Add Ambience. When company drops by, play a favorite holiday CD or awake their senses with pleasant aromas. No need to keep an eternal batch of cookies in the oven, but do have aromatherapy, seasonal-scent candles and potpourri on hand. When unexpected guests arrive, just give a quick spray or light a candle to freshen the air.
