Housekeeping Made Simple for Your Holiday Stay

If you’ve booked a cottage, cabin or tiny house at Ocean's Reach Retreats, you probably want the place to stay tidy without spending all day cleaning. Good housekeeping isn’t about deep‑cleaning marathons; it’s about a few smart habits that keep the space fresh, comfortable and ready for you to relax.

Quick Prep Before You Arrive

First thing you can do is pack a small cleaning kit. A travel‑size all‑purpose spray, a microfiber cloth, and a handy scrub brush take up almost no space but can tackle spills quickly. When you walk in, do a quick sweep of the rooms. Pick up any stray socks, empty the rubbish bins and check that the dishwasher (if there is one) is empty. A clean start means you won’t be bothered by mess later.

If the property has a washing machine, run a quick cycle with a towel or two to clear any leftover detergent residue. This also gives you fresh towels for the first night. Many guests skip this step and end up with damp towels that develop a smell overnight.

Everyday Habits That Save Time

While you’re on holiday, treat the space like a mini‑home. Wipe down the kitchen counter right after you finish cooking. A splash of spray and a wipe takes less than a minute and prevents sticky crumbs from attracting ants. In the bathroom, a quick swipe of the sink and shower after each use keeps grime at bay, especially in tiny houses where the bathroom is shared and small.

For cottages with open‑plan living, use coasters on coffee tables and placemats on dining tables. It sounds simple, but it stops coffee rings and food stains from soaking into wood surfaces. When you’re done with a meal, just lift the placemat and give it a shake – no mess left behind.

When you’re ready to head out for the day, gather any used dishes and load them into the dishwasher or sink. Running the dishwasher at the end of your stay avoids a mountain of dishes for the next guest and keeps the kitchen looking neat for the host.

One habit that often gets overlooked is managing laundry. Most holiday rentals provide a laundry basket, so toss dirty clothes in as soon as you can. If you have a limited number of loads, wash larger items (like towels) first and use the dryer for smaller items to speed things up. Fresh linens make the bed feel like a hotel, even in a rustic cabin.

Finally, don’t forget the outdoor areas. A quick sweep of the patio or balcony each evening removes leaves and sand that can get tracked inside. If you have a grill, brush the grates after each use – it keeps the flavor of your food pure and prevents flare‑ups for the next cookout.

By following these easy steps, you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying the sea views, beach walks and cozy evenings that Ocean's Reach Retreats offers. Good housekeeping isn’t a chore; it’s a set of tiny actions that protect the charm of your holiday home and make every stay feel just right.

Theo Frayne January 3, 2025

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