Are you throwing a graduation party this year? Here is a handy checklist to help you transform your home into a functional and beautiful entertaining space that’s ready to welcome your guests!
[Check out our Spring Home Maintenance Checklist for more tips for spring home updates!
Safety First
Do a thorough walk-through of your home–inside and out–to check for safety hazards. There’s nothing like an injured guest to ruin a celebration!
- Secure any loose railings.
- Fix any tripping hazards, such as loose stones or deck boards.
- Mend any damaged screens, windows, or doors.
- Put childproof locks on any hazardous areas such as cleaning cabinets or basement staircases.
De-Clutter
Graduation is the perfect excuse to clear out all the excess clutter that has gathered over the years. Start with things you know you won’t need to have out, like craft supplies, personal items, and extra books or puzzles. It’s also a good idea to remove any breakables or valuables that you would be worried about during a party.
- Move craft supplies, personal items, and extra clutter into storage.
- Remove any breakables or valuables and secure them safely.
Entryway
Tackle the entryway before moving on to the rest of the house! It’s the first thing guests will see when they arrive, and you’ll want it to be clean, welcoming, and well-lit.
- Empty the coat closet or add a coat rack.
- Clean and refresh your welcome mat.
- Set out a bench or table for gifts and cards.
- Consider putting out a sign to direct guests to different areas, such as the food, bathroom, and outdoor areas.
Outdoor Spaces
If the weather will be nice, create welcoming spaces on your lawn, porch, or patio so that guests can spread out and enjoy the outdoors!
- Mow and water your lawn, and sweep up grass clippings.
- Add flowers in a pot, or spruce up your landscaping.
- Sweep your porch and walkways.
- Clean your windows inside and out.
- Arrange chairs, tables, and standing areas for people to gather.
Kitchen
Your guests are going to want food and drinks, so get your kitchen ready for serving! In addition to your normal cleaning tasks, add these to your graduation to-do list:
- Clean out the refrigerator, freezer, sink, and dishwasher.
- Hang fresh hand towels. Have plenty extra on hand in case of spills!
- Choose designated areas for food and drinks, and make sure they aren’t too crowded or congested.
- Keep cups, napkins, and silverware well stocked.
- Have trash and recycling bins in easily-accessible areas.
Bathroom
You can count on pretty much everyone needing to use the restroom at some point during the party! In addition to your normal scrubbing, consider these extra steps for graduation day:
- Clean or replace your bath mats.
- Tidy the cabinets and drawers, and stock extras of things guests might need, such as toilet paper, clean hand towels, feminine products, and tissues.
- Empty the trashcan.
- Provide an air freshener or candle for guests to use as needed.
Living Room
Expect your guests to migrate to the living room when they are looking for a comfortable place to sit and relax. Here are some ways to get your living room party-ready:
- Deep-clean your carpets and upholstery.
- Wash and fluff any pillows.
- Dust your ceiling fan and vents.
- Add extra seating options.
- Put out an extra garbage can.
Graduation parties are an exciting time to open your home to friends and family, and with this checklist, you can be sure to be prepared ahead of time so you can relax and enjoy the celebration!
