December can be a hectic time for busy families. With guests arriving for Christmas and the weather warming up as summer arrives, now is the perfect time to get your guest bedroom ship-shape for visitors. Plus it is a great time to get your summer quilts organised.

Here are some great tips for preparing your spare/guest room for Christmas holiday visitors.

The key is to ensure your guests feel at home.

Is there a bedside table with a reading lamp and coaster?
These are basic things that will show guests that you've considered their comfort:

Assume visitors will want to keep a glass of water by the bed, especially in a strange home where they'd be less comfortable getting up in the middle of the night. A lamp is a common courtesy: No one should have to navigate their way from the wall's light switch to the bed.

Does the room have an accessible and uncluttered power outlet?
Most guests will have at least a cell phone that they will want to charge each night.

How does the bed fit your guests?
High, old-fashioned beds can be difficult for small children and the elderly to get in and out of. Likewise, a low-to-the-floor futon can be hard on those with arthritis or joint issues. If your mattress is overly firm, consider a MiniJumbuk mattress topper to provide more comfort.

Do you have enough quilts and pillows?
Take inventory of your spare pillows and quilts. Don't assume someone can use a couch cushion for their head. If you have the storage space, you might as well err on the side of having more quilts and pillows than you think you need. Make sure your spare bedding is clean and must-free, we suggest that you air quilts and pillows outside on a warm breezy day, especially if they have been in storage over winter.

How is the temperature of the room?
Make sure the room is warm or cool enough. Temperature preference is highly personal, so you can anticipate your guests' needs by supplying a fan or a blanket in areas where it gets cold overnight even in summer.

Does your guest room feel like a guest room?
If your spare room doubles as an office or kids' room, remove anything you'll need during your visitors' stay. Don't make your guest stay in a cluttered environment that makes them feel like they are not welcome. Likewise, clear out some drawers and hanging space and provide ample hangers for their personal belongings.

Hopefully with these handy tips getting ready for your visitors will be a breeze.