Top guest room must-haves for even the smallest spaces. With just a few thoughtful touches, you can make your guests feel right at home.
This post is sponsored by Wayfair. As always all opinions and ideas are entirely my own.
Creating a welcoming guest room, even in a small space, doesn’t require much but thoughtful essentials. Whether you’re working with a spare room, a loft, or a compact corner, the key is to make your guests feel comfortable and at ease. From cozy bedding to easy extras like a gift basket, having the right items on hand ensures that your guests enjoy a restful, enjoyable stay.
In this article, we’ll cover the must-haves for hosting in any guest room, turning even the tiniest area into a cozy retreat.
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Top 10 Guest Room Must Haves
1. Private Sleeping Space
No matter how small your space is, it is essential to provide guests with a designated sleeping area that feels private and separate from the main living areas.
In our home, we turned our extra bedroom into an office/ guest room with the use of a sleeper sofa. This has allowed for a private space in our home for guests to use without having a dedicated guest room. I highly recommend the Godwin 67” Upholstered Sleeper Sofa.
If you do not have a dedicated space with a door, a room divider, a curtain, or even a strategic furniture arrangement can help create a sense of personal space. This separation, however subtle, makes guests feel more at ease and gives them a comfortable place to unwind.
shop: Boucle Throw Pillows/ Lumbar Pillow / sleeper sofa
2. Clean & Organized Space
This one may seem obvious but it is an important part of being a good host. A clutter-free, organized space is an easy way to make your guest feel comfortable regardless of how much space you have. Tidying up not only creates a more welcoming environment but also allows your guests to settle in without feeling like they’re intruding or encroaching on your personal space.
3. Comfortable Mattress
A good night’s sleep is one of the most important parts of a guest’s stay. Invest in a quality mattress, whether it’s a traditional bed, a sofa sleeper, or an air mattress. You don’t need to splurge, but choosing something that offers support and comfort will make all the difference.
Already have a mattress and want to make it more comfortable for your guest? Add a good-quality mattress topper. Memory foam toppers or mattress pads can enhance comfort for guests, especially if the bed isn’t used regularly. Guests will appreciate the effort to provide them with restful sleep.
We added a mattress topper to our sleeper sofa and it has made all the difference.
4. Cozy Bedding
Layering soft, high-quality bedding is a guest room must-have. Start with breathable sheets, then add a medium-weight duvet or comforter.
I highly recommend using a duvet. You can make a duvet feel extra cozy by doing this one simple trick. Order your duvet insert one size bigger than your duvet. This will make your bedding extra fluffy and way thicker than a traditional comforter making it feel luxurious without the price tag.
Finish off the bed with a throw blanket and some decorative pillows. Adding decorative throw pillows is an easy way to elevate a guest space no matter where it is located. It can make the space feel intentional and inviting for your guests.
Opt for neutral or calming colors to create a soothing atmosphere. Even if your guest room is on the smaller side, cozy bedding can transform the space into a restful haven. Ensure everything is freshly laundered, as nothing says “welcome” like crisp, clean linens.
shop: Duvet insert/ throw blanket
5. Pillow Options
Not everyone sleeps comfortably with the same type of pillow, so offering a variety of pillow options is a thoughtful touch. Provide a mix of soft, medium, and firm pillows to cater to different preferences.
Place one of each pillow type on the bed or store extras in a nearby closet or drawer, allowing guests to customize their sleeping setup. This small detail can make a big impact on your guests’ comfort and show that you’ve put extra care into their stay.
6. Extra Blankets
Even in the warmest climates, it’s always a good idea to provide extra blankets. Some guests may prefer more warmth when they sleep, and a lightweight throw or an additional comforter will ensure they stay cozy throughout the night.
I like to add a throw blanket or extra quilt at the end of the bed. Not only do they provide warmth, but extra blankets can also add texture and style to your guest room decor.
7. Towels
Placing fresh towels in the guest room is both practical and welcoming. Provide a set that includes a bath towel, hand towel, and washcloth for each guest, neatly folded on the bed or in the bathroom.
Opt for soft, absorbent towels in neutral colors that complement your guest room aesthetic. This ensures that guests don’t have to ask for essentials and can feel more independent during their stay, adding a layer of convenience to their experience.
8. Sound Machine/ Fan
A sound machine or fan can be a lifesaver, especially if your guest room is near a noisy area. We have two toddlers so this is a must.
Offering a sound machine with options like white noise or nature sounds can help guests relax and drift off to sleep while blocking out unwanted noise. If space permits, a small fan can provide cooling comfort while doubling as a noise buffer. These small details create a more restful environment, allowing your guests to recharge.
shop: basket
9. Gift Basket
This is my favorite way to make a guest feel special and welcome in our home. It may not exactly be a must-have but it is a kind gesture. This can elevate your guest experience especially if you are hosting a guest in a small space.
Include items like bottled water, snacks, travel-sized toiletries, and maybe a local treat or two.
This thoughtful touch adds warmth and personalization to their stay, making them feel cared for beyond the basic amenities. You don’t have to go overboard—just a few essentials show that you’ve gone the extra mile.
10. Wifi Password
This is one of the most requested guest room must-haves from guests. Provide your guests with the Wi-Fi password before they have to ask by writing it on a small card and leaving it in an obvious place, such as on the nightstand or inside the gift basket.
This small gesture ensures your guests feel connected and at ease without needing to ask, enhancing their overall experience from the moment they settle in.
Hosting guests, even in a small space, is all about providing comfort and convenience. With just a few thoughtful touches like cozy bedding, a clean space, and a little personalization, you can create a welcoming environment that makes guests feel right at home.
These guest room must-haves ensure that your guest room is well-equipped without overwhelming the space, allowing you to host with ease and confidence, no matter the size of your home.
I found the perfect guest room must-haves at Wayfair! Whether you’re looking for cozy bedding, comfortable mattresses, or stylish decor, Wayfair offers a wide range of options to suit any style or budget. With easy search filters, customer reviews, and fast shipping, you can quickly find everything you need to create a welcoming guest space without leaving your home.
Shop my favorite guest room must-haves
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