A properly made guest bed starts with the basics, but it’s the details that make it special—like comfortable sheets, extra blankets and pillows, an essential oils diffuser, and even a welcome note. All of these thoughtful touches help create a guest retreat that’s so memorable they might never want to leave. Use our helpful tips to create an atmosphere visitors will dream about long after they’ve said goodbye.

Set the Foundation

The number one rule for a great guest bed is to create a haven that you would enjoy curling up in yourself. This includes a mattress that meets your discerning standards. If you wouldn’t sleep on it night after night, it’s best to either replace it or make it more comfortable with a high-quality mattress topper.

A mattress pad is another essential element of a well-made bed. Ensure it fits on the mattress properly and is pulled tight enough to avoid shifting, wrinkling, or coming undone in the night. Select the ideal mattress pad or protector based on your needs. For added comfort, opt for a plush option that provides one more layer of cushion. If children will be using the guest bed, you might want to opt for a waterproof pad to avoid spills and stains from infiltrating your mattress.

Use the Correct Linens

Think about how much care you put into selecting the linens for your primary bedroom—now channel that same level of enthusiasm for outfitting your guest bed. Give yourself a primer on thread count, fabric types, and other factors that impact sheet quality. From there, determine the best option for your price point.

A fitted and flat sheet are essentials, but the rest of the bedding is dependent on the weather and season. A coverlet or quilt is often the next layer, with a plush duvet folded across the bottom of the bed. A throw blanket can also be the ideal finishing touch during the winter months or even year-round if you keep your thermostat low throughout the night.

Stack the Right Pillows

Sleep pillows are tricky, it’s best not to go too niche (like a firm foam pillow for side sleepers) unless you’re preparing your guest bed for a specific person and you are well-versed in their ideal pillow parameters. Instead, play it safe and use pillows with medium firmness that work for a variety of sleeping positions. Use two pillowcases per pillow for a more comfortable feel and to act as an additional cleanable layer. Silk pillowcases can be a nice, luxurious touch, but they’re by no means necessary.

Once the sleeping pillows are situated, it’s time to focus on the decorative elements. Shams, euros, bolsters, and more are all great additions. Let the style of your bed and home lead you. Just make sure you don’t go overboard as you don’t want your guests to stress about properly situating 10 pillows every morning when they make the bed.

Other Essential Tasks

Now that you have everything you need to make a luxurious bed, consider completing these other small tasks to make the experience even more enjoyable for your guests.

Freshen Up the Linens

You likely stuck the guest sheets in the wash as soon as your last visitors left, but if more than a couple weeks have passed you’ll want to freshen them up. Linen spray, fluffing the pillows, and hand smoothing the quilt or coverlet are all that’s needed in a pinch, though it’s best to rewash any sheets that have been sitting on the bed for more than two weeks.

Stock the Closets

Ensure you have extra blankets, pillows, and sheets in a nearby linen closet or wardrobe, and don’t forget to mention their availability and location to your guests when they arrive. They’ll likely appreciate avoiding a drowsy, late-night scavenger hunt.

Check the Mattress and Bed

Examine your mattress and bed for any issues before guests arrive and vacuum and deodorize your mattress with baking soda. You can also add these tasks to your typical sheet-washing routine. Not only will it provide a more comfortable environment for your visitors, but taking proper care of your mattress will also help extend its life.

Tips for Creating a Cozy Atmosphere

Consider all the senses when you create a serene setting for guests. Plush pillows and linens, soft, adjustable lighting, a sound machine, and a scented candle or essential oil diffuser can help set a tranquil scene. Fresh flowers and a bedside carafe and glass can also provide the perfect finishing touch.