Preparing your home before going on holiday: a checklist to ensure you can set off with peace of mind

Getting the house ready before going on holiday is one of those little tasks that help you set off with greater peace of mind and enjoy your time off more fully. Tidying up a bit before you close the door can make coming home feel much more pleasant.

Because there’s nothing quite like coming home after a few days away to find your home clean, tidy and ready to welcome you back.

Before you go, take a few minutes to go through this simple checklist. Your future self will thank you for it.

1. Tidy up the surfaces and make the bed

It may seem like a small thing, but leaving your home looking tidy makes a big difference to how you feel when you get back.

Before you go out, tidy up the tables, worktops, side tables and walkways. Put the cushions back in place, make the bed and avoid leaving clothes or unfinished tasks lying about. That way, when you return, the house will feel much more welcoming.

2. Check the kitchen before you leave

The kitchen is one of the most important things to sort out before going away for a few days.

Take out the rubbish, leave the sink clean and check the fridge to remove any food that might go off whilst you’re away. You can also take the opportunity to clear the worktop and switch off or unplug any appliances if you don’t need them.

These are quick steps that help prevent unpleasant odours and unpleasant surprises when you get back.

3. Water the plants and place them in a suitable spot

If you have plants at home, remember to water them before you go away and to leave them somewhere where they’ll be well looked after whilst you’re away.

Avoid exposing them to too much direct sunlight if it’s going to be very hot, and if you’re going to be away for a while, you could ask someone you trust to pop round and check on them, or use an automatic watering system.

That way, when you return, your home will still feel lively and well looked after.

4. Before closing the door, have a final check

Once you’ve packed your suitcase, take a moment to check the windows, blinds, lights, sockets and taps.

Check that everything is properly locked, that there are no lights left on unnecessarily, and that the house is secure. This final check will help you set off with greater peace of mind and enjoy your break to the full.

Small gestures to help you leave calmly… and come back a better person

Getting your house ready before you leave doesn’t have to take long. Sometimes, just a few minutes spent tidying up and checking things over can make a big difference.

Because travelling, relaxing and unwinding also start with leaving your home in a state of calm.