The tree is up, the candles are lit, the cookies might be overbaked—but ready or not, holiday hosting season is here. And no matter how organized we plan to be, there always seems to be a last-minute scramble before guests pull into the driveway.

Good news: getting your home holiday-ready doesn’t have to mean an all-day deep clean or a full-on remodel (we’ll save that for January). Here are quick, contractor-approved fixes and fast clean-ups you can knock out in under an hour—so you can host confidently and actually enjoy your holiday gathering.

1. The 10-Minute Doorway Refresh

Your entryway sets the tone—so give it a quick spruce:

• Shake out or replace the welcome mat

• Sweep the porch and steps

• Tighten any loose railing screws

• Spot-clean the door and windows

• Add a simple wreath or greenery

Pro Tip: If the door handle is loose or squeaky, a 30-second adjustment or a dab of lubricant can make it feel “new” again.

2. Fix Those Quick “Eye-Twitch” Issues

You know the ones—little things you ignore all year until company is coming:

• Wobbly table or chair? Tighten screws.

• Loose cabinet handle? Quick re-secure.

• Running toilet? Jostle the chain or adjust the fill valve.

• Lightbulb out? Swap it for a soft-white LED and instantly upgrade the room.

These tiny tweaks make your home feel cared for without stressing your schedule.

3. Last-Minute Kitchen Speed Clean

The kitchen always becomes party central, so prioritize:

• Clear counters (stash non-essentials in a bin in the pantry)

• Wipe appliances people see—stove front, fridge handles, microwave door

• Empty trash and put in a fresh bag

• Start a holiday-scented simmer pot for instant “I totally didn’t panic clean” vibes

Fast Fix: If a cabinet door is sagging or popping open, most hinges have quick-adjust screws that bring everything back into alignment in under a minute.

4. Bathroom Ready in Under 5 Minutes

Guests always use the bathroom—make it quick and painless:

• Replace the hand towel

• Wipe counters + faucet

• Refill toilet paper

• Light a candle or use a neutral room spray

• Do a fast toilet bowl swipe

If your faucet aerator is clogged (low pressure), a quick twist-off and rinse can fix it instantly.

5. Living Room “Reset” for Company

Focus on the biggest impact for the least effort:

• Fluff pillows + fold throw blankets

• Declutter surfaces

• Vacuum main walkways

• Adjust crooked picture frames

• Add soft lighting—lamps on, overhead lights off

Contractor Tip: If a floor vent is rattling, a tightened screw or small strip of weatherstripping can silence it before guests arrive.

6. Quick Safety Check (Because Holiday Chaos Is Real)

A few 60-second safety fixes make a huge difference:

• Tape down tripping hazards (loose cords, sliding rugs)

• Make sure no décor blocks heat vents

• Test smoke detectors if you’ll have candles or cooking

• Check outdoor paths for ice or slick spots before guests arrive

7. Fast Outdoor Warm-Up

If you have guests arriving after dark:

• Replace burnt-out porch bulbs

• Sweep a clear walking path

• Knock down cobwebs

• Add a quick holiday spotlight or simple string lights

If you see a loose deck board while you’re out there? One screw can make it safe until a proper fix later.

Final Thought

Holiday hosting doesn’t have to feel like prepping for an inspection. A few quick fixes and intentional clean-ups can completely shift the energy of your home—and help you welcome family and friends with comfort instead of chaos.

If you’re dreaming of bigger changes for 2026, winter is the perfect time to plan them… but for now, focus on enjoying the glow, the gatherings, and the magic of the season.

With Christmas just five days away, there’s still time to give your home a festive makeover with quick accent wall and trim upgrades. Whether you're hosting holiday dinners or simply creating a cozy space for your family, adding a touch of wainscoting, shiplap, or paint can make all the difference. Here are some last-minute ideas to spruce up your home just in time for the festivities.

1. Wainscoting for an Elegant Dining Room

Transform your dining space into a holiday-ready showstopper with wainscoting. This classic wall treatment not only adds elegance but also frames your holiday décor beautifully.

• Quick Tip: Use pre-made wainscoting panels available at most home improvement stores. Install them below the chair rail, paint them in a crisp white or festive green, and pair them with a darker wall color above for a dramatic effect.

2. Shiplap for a Rustic Holiday Vibe

Nothing says cozy like the farmhouse charm of shiplap. Whether vertical or horizontal, shiplap can bring a warm and inviting feel to any room.

• Quick Tip: If time is tight, focus on one accent wall, such as behind the fireplace or the headboard in a guest room. Use peel-and-stick shiplap panels for a fast installation and finish with a neutral or bold holiday-inspired paint color.

3. Paint an Accent Wall in an Hour

One of the quickest ways to change a room’s atmosphere is with paint. An accent wall in a festive hue can make your living space pop without the need for a full-room repaint.

• Quick Tip: Choose a wall in a high-traffic area, such as the one behind your Christmas tree or the main wall in the entryway. Deep red, forest green, or even a chic navy are perfect holiday colors that transition well into the New Year.

4. Trim Work for a Polished Finish

New trim or crown molding can elevate any room. Adding a festive touch to your trim is easier than you think.

• Quick Tip: Upgrade baseboards or door casings with pre-cut trim pieces that you can install with minimal tools. For a seasonal look, paint the trim in a contrasting color like gold or silver.

5. Festive Add-ons

If you're short on time, enhance your accent walls and trim with these quick holiday additions:

• String lights or garlands: Frame the accent wall or trim with twinkling lights.

• Seasonal art or decals: Add holiday-inspired artwork or removable wall decals for a festive flair.

Why Choose Mr Clean Fix?

At Mr Clean Fix LLC, we know how to transform spaces with speed and precision. If you’re looking for professional help to get your home holiday-ready, our team is here to deliver! From wainscoting installations to perfectly painted accent walls, we’ll ensure your home shines this Christmas season.

Share the Festive Look!

📸 Have you updated your home with accent walls or trim work? Snap a picture and tag us @MrCleanFixLLC on social media! We’d love to see your holiday home transformations.