10 Things That’ll Stress You Out Before They Even Pull in the Drive
Sometimes the hardest part of hosting is before your guests even show up. These are the things that’ll spike your blood pressure while you’re still vacuuming or checking the clock.
Dirty Windows or Glass Doors
Once you notice a smudge, you can’t unsee it—and then suddenly every window looks grimy. Guests might not say anything, but you’ll be annoyed with yourself for skipping it. A quick wipe makes everything look a little cleaner and brighter.
Dog Hair Everywhere
If you have pets, you know. No matter how clean you think your house is, pet hair has a way of clinging to furniture and floating through the air at the worst moment. A quick once-over with a lint roller or vacuum can calm your nerves.
Not Enough Clean Dishes
You’re setting the table or thinking through the meal and realize—uh oh—you’re out of clean glasses or forks. Now you’re rewashing things while watching the clock. Always check earlier in the day so you’re not scrambling last minute.
The Bathroom Sink Is Gross
You meant to get to it, but it slipped your mind—and now there’s dried toothpaste and mystery gunk staring you in the face. A 2-minute scrub makes a huge difference, and it’ll keep you from cringing when someone heads to the bathroom.
Your Kids’ Mess Isn’t Done
You told them to clean up. They said they did. But somehow the living room still has a stack of books, a half-built Lego tower, and a shoe with no match. Even if guests won’t care, you’ll feel better having it out of sight.
No Room for Coats or Shoes
If your entryway is already jammed with your family’s jackets and bags, it’ll feel cluttered the second guests walk in. Clear a little space ahead of time so you’re not frantically moving stuff as they knock on the door.
The Smell of Dinner Is Still Hanging Around
If you cooked something heavy earlier in the day, the smell might still be lingering. That garlic or grease smell can make your whole house feel stale. Crack a window or simmer something fresh—anything to reset the space.
You Forgot to Take the Trash Out
Nothing throws you off like realizing your kitchen trash is full—and smells like it. Even if it’s not overflowing, the smell alone can make you second-guess yourself. Take it out, replace the bag, and move on with peace of mind.
You’re Out of Ice
You don’t notice until you’re filling up the drink pitcher—and then it’s too late. Guests are pulling in, and your freezer has five half-melted cubes and a frost chunk. Pick up a bag or freeze some earlier if you think you’ll need it.
Your Outdoor Area Isn’t Guest-Ready
If anyone’s going to hang out outside—even for a minute—make sure it doesn’t look like a mess. Wipe off the chairs, pick up yard toys, and do a quick sweep if needed. You’ll feel way more confident when people head outside.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
