If you’ve ever had guests stay over and secretly worried about what they really thought of the setup, you’re not alone. A guest bedroom often becomes the catch-all space. A bit of storage, a spare bed, maybe a leftover chair from the lounge room. But it doesn’t take much to turn it into a space where people actually feel comfortable. Whether you’ve got a full room to work with or just a small nook, there’s plenty you can do to make it feel thoughtful and welcoming.

Start With the Bed (Obviously)

Comfort trumps everything here. If the bed is uncomfortable, it doesn’t matter how nice the lighting is or how fresh the towels are. So let’s get this right.

A king single mattress is a smart choice for most guest rooms. It gives more room than a standard single without eating up the whole space. Perfect for solo guests and just enough for a couple if needed. If you’ve got the space and expect two people more often than not, a double or queen works too, but king single is a great balance.

Pay attention to the mattress quality. Doesn’t have to be top-tier luxury, but something firm, supportive, and clean is essential. Add a mattress protector while you’re at it—easier to keep fresh between visits.

Layer it up with:

• A fitted sheet that actually fits
• A top sheet (yes, some guests still love them)
• A doona or quilt that suits the season
• A couple of comfortable pillows
• Optional throw blanket for extra warmth or style

The key? Keep it simple, but don’t go cheap.

Clear the Clutter

This one’s easy to overlook. If your guest room is also your storage space or your home office, the line gets blurry fast.

Guests need space to put their bags, a surface for small items like phones or books, and a sense they’re not intruding.

If your cupboards are full, at least clear out a drawer or two. Make space in the wardrobe, even if it’s just enough to hang a couple of jackets.

Avoid having your treadmill, Christmas decorations, or laundry rack in the room when guests are coming. You don’t want people feeling like they’re sleeping in a storeroom.

Don’t Skip the Lighting

Lighting can make or break the mood of a room. Overhead lights are harsh, and if that’s the only option, it’s not ideal for winding down at night.

Add at least one bedside lamp. Bonus points if it’s touch or has a dimmer. Guests don’t want to be fumbling for switches in the dark. If you’ve got room, a standing lamp in the corner helps soften the space and makes it feel more lived-in.

Natural light is a win too. If the room gets good sun during the day, even better. Just make sure you’ve got proper blinds or curtains so guests can block it out in the morning.

Think About the Basics Guests Always Forget

This is where the little details come in. The things you don’t think about until you’re the one staying somewhere unfamiliar.

Here’s what’s worth including:

• Towels – Clean, soft, and placed somewhere obvious
• Tissues – Not a huge deal, but appreciated
• Spare blanket – Especially if they don’t want to ask
• Waste bin – Not having one is more noticeable than you think
• Clock – Doesn’t have to be digital, just something to glance at
• Power access – An extension cord or visible outlet near the bed helps

None of this is hard, but it shows you’ve thought about their stay.

Create Some Storage Space

Even if guests are only staying for a night or two, having somewhere to unpack makes a difference. No one wants to live out of their suitcase on the floor.

A simple solution?

• A small set of drawers
• A luggage rack
• Hooks on the back of the door for coats or bags
• Space in the wardrobe (with hangers!)

It doesn’t have to be a full walk-in. Just a bit of room for guests to settle in and feel like the room is theirs for the time being.

Keep Décor Neutral But Cosy

Guest bedrooms don’t need to be bland, but you don’t want them too personal either. That loud art piece you love might not be everyone’s vibe.

Stick to soft tones—whites, greys, warm beige. Add texture with cushions, a throw, maybe a simple rug. Plants (real or fake) add life without being too bold.

Try to avoid family photos or anything that makes the space feel like it’s still someone else’s room. The idea is to create a bit of a blank canvas where anyone can feel comfortable.

Small Touches Go a Long Way

You don’t need hotel-style service, but a few thoughtful extras never hurt. Things like:

• A small tray with a water bottle and glass
• Books or magazines
• A notepad and pen
• A couple of extra toiletries (toothpaste, shampoo, a spare toothbrush)

These are the little moments that make someone feel like you’ve actually prepared for their stay. And that’s what they’ll remember.

Make It Easy to Sleep In

Let’s be honest, most guests want a lie-in. So help them out. Blockout curtains or at least something thicker than sheer blinds will make a big difference. If the room backs onto a noisy street or morning traffic, consider white noise (a small fan can do the trick). And if the house creaks or dogs bark, maybe leave out some earplugs just in case.

The goal here is simple: create a space where someone can actually rest. Not just a bed in a spare room.

Make It a Space You’d Stay In

That’s the best test. Would you want to sleep here for a few nights? Is it clean, quiet, and easy to use? Or would you be tossing and turning, wishing you’d booked a hotel?

A great guest bedroom isn’t about luxury. It’s about comfort, thoughtfulness, and making people feel like they’re not just crashing somewhere but that they’re welcome.