How to Make Your Guest Bedroom Feel Like a 5-Star Hotel

When guests come to stay – especially during the holidays – we want them to feel like they’re stepping into a space that was put together with them in mind, not like they’ve been plunked down in a storage room with an air mattress and a pile of old winter coats. A truly welcoming guest room isn’t just about looking pretty; it’s about making people feel at ease, like they can kick off their shoes, unwind, and help themselves to a cup of tea without feeling like they’re intruding.

So today, we’re talking about the little luxuries that make a guest feel at home – the thoughtful touches that turn a basic spare room into a place where people actually want to stay. And no, this doesn’t mean you need to build a five-star guest house or run out and buy matching monogrammed robes (though, that would be a lovely touch). It’s about creating a space that’s warm, functional, and just a little indulgent – because the holidays should feel special for everyone, even your guests.

In this post, we’re going beyond the basics – yes, a clean bed and fresh towels are a must, but it’s those small, thoughtful details that make a guest room feel truly inviting. Think about the last time you stayed somewhere that made you feel instantly comfortable – what was it? The perfectly fluffed pillows? A cozy throw at the foot of the bed? A little tray with late-night snacks (because, well, who doesn’t love that)?

We’ll walk through all the little details that make a difference, from a well-stocked nightstand to the small indulgences that show your guests you’ve thought about their comfort. Whether you have a dedicated guest room or just a cozy corner to offer, these ideas will help you create a space that’s not just a place to sleep but a place to truly unwind. Because the best kind of hospitality is the kind that makes people feel like they belong.

A Bed That Invites You In

Let’s start with basics – no one remembers the decor if they spend the night tossing and turning on an uncomfortable mattress. A comfortable bed is the single most important thing in a guest room. You don’t need to splurge on something extravagant, but if your current guest bed is a decades-old relic that sags in the middle, it might be time for an upgrade. Guests may never mention it, but they’ll feel it.

Start with good, breathable sheets – crisp cotton or linen are always winners. Skip anything too synthetic or scratchy; no one wants to feel like they’re sleeping in a sandwich bag. Layer a lightweight blanket for versatility and top it off with a soft, cloud-like duvet. And pillows – well, pay attention to those! Some people love the structure of a firm pillow, while others prefer something they can sink into. Offer both, because the only thing worse than a bad pillow is having to fold a towel in half and pretend it’s one.

If the room isn’t perfectly soundproof or has a lot of natural light, providing earplugs or an eye mask can help ensure your guests get a peaceful night’s rest.

Alos, choosing a twin bed set-up makes the best use of space, especially when you’re not just hosting couples. It creates a flexible, comfortable arrangement for friends or family, giving everyone their own space to unwind and sleep so no one feels cramped or crowded.

The Perfect Nightstand Setup

A well-thought-out nightstand is one of those small details that can make a guest’s stay feel effortless. It’s not just a place to set down a phone—it should offer a sense of comfort and convenience.

A good reading lamp is a must – bright enough for a book but with a warm, soft glow for winding down. I also like to include a small dish for jewelry or a watch, so guests have a safe spot for their essentials. A carafe of water on the nightstand means they won’t have to make a trip to the kitchen in the middle of the night, and a charging station ensures they can keep their devices powered up without hunting for an outlet.

One final touch: the Wi-Fi password. Rather than having guests search for it or ask, I like to write it on a simple card and place it in a small frame. It’s a little detail, but it makes settling in that much easier.

Closet Space & Luggage Solutions

Giving guests a little space to settle in makes a big difference. No one wants to live out of a suitcase on the floor, digging for a sweater in a tangle of clothes. A simple luggage rack or a small bench makes unpacking easier and keeps things feeling tidy.

I always clear out a section of the closet—just a few open hangers can go a long way in making guests feel at home. Wooden hangers add a nice touch, sturdy enough for heavier items like coats or dresses. And a full-length mirror is a must, especially during the holidays when everyone wants to take a quick look before heading out. It’s a small detail, but it makes getting ready that much more convenient. Plus it makes the space feel bigger.

Keep a small, discreet laundry basket in the room for guests to use during their stay. It makes it easy for them to keep things organized and tidy.

The Bathroom Basket: Essentials & Indulgences

Nothing makes a guest feel more cared for than a well-stocked bathroom. I always set out a stack of plush towels – because it makes the space feel like a boutique hotel. A soft robe is a nice extra, perfect for those slow holiday mornings or winding down at night.

Then there are the essentials. Travel-sized toiletries are always appreciated – because at some point, we’ve all forgotten a toothbrush or run out of shampoo. I like to keep a small basket with cotton pads, Q-tips, tissues and a hairdryer so guests don’t have to go searching for the basics. And for a final touch, a lightly scented candle  or some seasonal blooms adds a bit of warmth and makes the space feel all the more inviting. It’s these small details that turn a guest bathroom from functional to simply luxurious.

Little Luxuries That Make an Outsized Impact

The small, personal details are what truly make guests feel at home. A fresh flower in a bud vase, a selection of books or magazines tailored to their interests, and a tiny bowl of chocolates on the nightstand make all the difference.

These days, most people are on their phones, so I’ll also make sure there’s a charging station nearby with extra cables – because no one likes scrambling for an outlet when their phone’s at 2%. If my guest enjoys a warm drink, I’ll set up a little tea or coffee station with their favorite blends, a kettle, and a few biscuits or snacks for a cozy touch.

For those who tend to stay up reading or watching shows, a dimmable bedside lamp is a good idea – it lets them enjoy their late-night moments without disturbing others. And staying on the topic of light control – while dainty, sheer curtains may look pretty, they might not be the best choice for guests who prefer a darker room to sleep well. Blackout or heavy curtains can make a huge difference for those who need total darkness to get a restful night’s sleep.

Final Flourishes for a Cozy Stay

Soft lighting is key – I avoid harsh overhead lights and instead use lamps and dimmers to create a warm, inviting glow. A small armchair or bench  gives guests a place to sit other than the bed. And if it’s the holiday season, I might add a little festive décor – a sprig of greenery, a scented candle, or a small dish of spiced nuts to nibble on.

And pay attention to  the temperature! In summer, I make sure to have a fan available to keep things cool and comfortable, as not everyone enjoys the heat or prefers sleeping with AC on. In the winter, a warm throw or an extra blanket on the bed makes all the difference, and I might even leave a small space heater nearby for a quick warmth boost. It’s the thought that counts.

If space allows, consider adding a small work desk or table to the guest room. Even if your guest isn’t planning to work, it’s nice to have a designated spot for catching up on emails or writing a postcard. A simple desk with a comfortable chair, some pens, and maybe a notepad or two offers that extra bit of functionality without taking away from the cozy vibe of the room. Plus, it’s great for those guests who might appreciate a little quiet time to journal or even plan their day. A thoughtful work nook can actually make a guest feel at home and catered to.

If your guest room has a dresser, it can be more than just a place for clothes. For example if  you have a larger dresser, consider using one of the drawers to store extra blankets or pillows for your guests, especially during colder months. It’s an easy way to keep everything organized while making sure they have everything they need at arm’s reach.

You can also use the top of the dresser to display a few welcoming items, like a small vase of fresh flowers, a decorative bowl for change, or even a pretty candle. If space allows, it could double as a little prep area for guests to store their items while they’re settling in. 

If there’s a mirror, make sure it’s clean and well-lit, so guests can use it comfortably. A basket filled with essentials like hand sanitizer, lip balm, a sewing kit, and tissues can be a lifesaver for guests, especially if they forget anything.

A few more ideas to truly round out the experience:

1. A Bedside Clock: If your guest prefers to know the time without reaching for their phone, a simple bedside clock is both practical and old-school charming.
2. Extra Pillows & Throw Blankets: Keep a variety of pillows (firm, soft, and decorative) on hand, as well as an extra blanket, so guests can choose what feels best for them.
3. A Guest Wi-Fi Guide: A cute, discreet little guide with the Wi-Fi password and any other useful information about the house, like local restaurants, public transport, or check-out times, can be really helpful.
4. A Nightlight: If your guest is unfamiliar with the space or comes in late at night, a small nightlight by the bed or in the bathroom can help them find their way without turning on bright overhead lights.
5. A Pet-Friendly Touch (if applicable): If your guests have pets with them, providing pet essentials like a blanket, water bowl, or even a few dog treats can show you’ve considered their needs too.
6. A Small Basket of Snacks: A basket with granola bars, nuts, or even a few pieces of fruit can be a thoughtful touch, especially for guests who may get hungry late at night or early in the morning.
7. A Whiteboard or Chalkboard for Messages: A little whiteboard or chalkboard near the door or on the dresser can be a nice touch for leaving a short, personal message or important reminders.
8. A Plush Start to the Day: A soft, shaggy rug by the bedside always adds a luxurious feel, letting guests sink their feet into cozy warmth the moment they wake up.
9. A Scent of Home: A lightly scented linen spray or a small sachet of lavender in the closet adds a subtle, calming fragrance, making the space feel fresh and inviting.
10. A Cozy Reading Nook: If space allows, a comfy chair with a throw pillow and a small side table can create a quiet spot for guests to read, relax, or enjoy a cup of tea.

At the end of the day, it’s the thought that counts. You don’t need a perfectly decorated guest room or expensive amenities to make your visitors feel at home. It’s the little details, the care you put into creating a space that’s comfortable, welcoming, and personalized, that truly matters. Whether it’s a fresh flower, a cozy throw, or just a clean, inviting bed, these tiny details make all the difference in helping your guests feel relaxed and at home.

Remember, you don’t have to have a large space or a big budget to create a memorable guest experience. It’s about doing the best with what you have, and with a bit of creativity and thoughtfulness, you can turn any room into a warm and inviting retreat.After all, there’s no better way to show someone you care than by making them feel truly at home.

I’d love to hear from you – what do you add to your guest room to make it feel welcoming? Do you have any special ways of making your guests feel comfortable and at ease during their stay? Let me know your favorite ideas!