5 quick ways to get your home guest-ready according to a styling and cleaning expert Chantel Mila
Spring in the air and Kitchen Week on The Block has us excited about hosting season, but there’s one thing you should always do before inviting guests in.
At least according to styling and cleaning expert, and best-selling author Chantel Mila, known as Mama Mila to her 3 million followers.
Adam and Jolene in House 1 were the Block 2026 Kitchen, Pantry and WC winners. Nine
Chantel dropped by this year’s winning Block kitchen to share five tips you can use to get your own home reveal ready – for judges or guests!
1. Let the air flow
“Firstly, you want to open up all your doors and windows to let that beautiful air flow through your home,” says Chantel.
Opening up doors and windows instantly blows away lingering cooking smells and stale air too, filling your home with light, breezy and inviting atmosphere.
2. Clean up the cutter
“Always make sure your bench tops are clutter-free and clean before you start hosting,” Chantel adds.
Clearing off counter tops and tucking away everyday mess instantly resets your space (and makes room for food and entertaining). Removing visual clutter can help create an open, relaxed environment too.
3. Empty bins
“This helps eliminate any foul odours around the home, but also comes in handy to make sure that your guest have somewhere to put their rubbish,” Chantel explains.
Yep, even hidden waste can leak subtle odours. If hosting a large number of guests, additional bins for rubbish and recycling can help too.
No lingering smells here! Nine
4. Empty the dishwasher
“Make sure your dishwasher is empty before you start hosting so you can load your guests’ dishes up as you go,” stresses Chantel.
Unlike the Block houses this year, not every home is lucky enough to have a butler’s pantry (and a second sink) to hide dirty dishes.
Clearing out the dishwasher can help prevent dirty dishes from piling up during the event, leaving you more time for hosting!
5. Finish with fragrance
Chantel’s favourite final tip. Nine
Chantel’s favourite finishing touch is lighting a candle. A carefully chosen scented candle can add a layer of subtle luxury the moment your guests walk through the door.
Like lamps, candles can create a warm, welcoming ambience while leaving a lasting impression of a beautifully cared-for home.
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