From flight delays to undercooked turkeys, the holidays throw a lot at us, and we all need plenty of rest and relaxation to enjoy it. That’s why creating a guest room that is peaceful, comfortable, and inviting as possible is essential to being a good host. House Beautiful asked board-certified health and wellness coach Stephanie Wagner of Healthy Minds Innovations, a research-based nonprofit that develops well-being tools, how to ensure your guests get a deep, restful night of sleep and a reinvigorating stay.
1. Give the Space a Spruce-Up
First, swap out that futon and basic bedding for a truly comfy mattress with linens to match. Tuft & Needle, home of top-quality mattresses and bedding, makes it easy with products like the Mint Mattress, linen sheet set, and down-alternative pillows.
Wagner also suggests adding a weighted blanket. “It can help settle the body and the nervous system after a busy day and can be a wonderful support to a good night’s sleep," she says. For an added touch, stock the nightstand with a relaxing sleep spray, made with lavender and frankincense.
2. Offer a Wind-Down Activity
For jet-lagged or restless guests, a little light distraction can go a long way toward helping them chill out and settle in, says Wagner. Have the room stocked with options for what your weary traveler might love, like a yoga mat or a jigsaw puzzle (try an artsy one from Galison).
3. Set Them Up for a Silent Night
After the bustle of traveling and family dinners, your guests are probably in need of some peace and quiet. The best way to cancel out unfamiliar sounds (car horns, barking dogs, rampaging kids) is to plug a white noise machine. Try the T&N + SNOOZ uses a real fan with no moving air to provide a consistent hum. It's 98 percent more energy-efficient than a standard box fan (and sleek-looking too).
4. Consider Blackout Curtains
They're by far the best way to make sure early-morning sunlight doesn’t get in the way of a full night’s sleep. (You can find affordable ones at most home improvement stores.) This easy upgrade can make the difference between a lovely Thanksgiving dinner and cranky, sleepy guests at the table.
5. Keep Things Cozy
We all have our preferred thermostat setting. While you may keep your house at a cool 63 degrees at night, some guests need warmth, so leave a stylish throw or quilt folded at the bottom of the bed. This cotton/linen blended quilt in Cayenne adds a splash of color, and its medium weight is right for any season.
6. Include a Noteworthy Element
Looking for a thoughtful gift to greet your guests? Wagner suggests tucking a blank journal next to their bed, so they can jot down random thoughts and ideas in the wee hours. “Journaling can be helpful for an active mind and gives those restless sleepers a place to record those to-do’s that might keep them up at night.” Almost anything from Moleskine should fill the bill.
7. Add a Turndown Touch
Most of us know we should turn off our screens at least an hour before bed because, as Wagner says, “Bright light can make the body feel too energized." (Blue light from phones, tablets, and laptops may suppress the secretion of melatonin, which can influence the circadian rhythm and disrupt sleep.)
But it's easy to forget that guidance, especially when you're away from home and without your non-electronic diversions. That's why it's a nice idea to leave your guests a selection of books on the bedside table. Pair that with a lamp that gives off soft light, like the warm glow from the built-in nightlight in the Loftie alarm clock which gives off all the cozy sleep vibes your guests will need.
Tuft & Needle Guest Room
White Noise Machine
Quilt
Calm Meditation Cushion
