Don’t pack it stained

Before you put away your holiday linens or holiday attire for the season, be sure to check it for stains. "One of the most common misconceptions about stains is that colorless beverages such as ginger ale, white wine or vodka will not leave a stain. When such beverages first dry, the stain is colorless, but most of these beverages contain sugars that aren’t immediately visible. Age and atmospheric exposure caramelize the sugars and the stain will become yellow or brown. Be sure to take these items in for cleaning before you put them away," says Marilyn Fleming, owner of Natural Cleaners.

Tip: Wash delicate heirloom fabrics by hand with a gentle detergent.

The cleaning calypso

Left to right, top to bottom!

This isn’t a dance step, but a method for going around a room only once, cleaning methodically as you circulate. "This is the most efficient way to clean and it goes even faster if you play some lively music!" says Cindy Shicotte, owner of Molly Maids of Lake Country in Pewaukee. "Dust first, then vacuum, so you can pick up all the crumbs and dust bunnies you knock off the furniture," she says.

Warm holiday greetings

"Make sure music and aroma fill the air as your guests arrive. Have a simmering pot

of spiced apple cider spiked with brandy ready to serve as guests come in from the cold. A greeting drink saves time and congestion at the bar," according to Marija Madunic of Gracious Events in Wauwatosa.

And, for a great last impression, send guests off with hot chocolate or hot mochas in to-go cups for their departure into the cold night air, suggests Madunic.

Red, red wine (stains)

If one of your guests spills wine or another beverage, don’t try to remove it with club soda. Instead, use a little cold water, says Fleming. She also recommends taking your garment to the dry cleaner as soon as possible while the stain is still fresh. "At the check-in counter, inform the dry cleaner of any stains. Be as specific as possible as to the type of stain and any stain removal techniques you used," she says.

Keep holiday linens fresh

After the start of the New Year, holiday tablecloths, napkins and throws are usually crammed into a box and put into storage. For a sweet-smelling surprise next year, try storing them with cinnamon stocks wrapped in a plastic bag pierced with small holes to let out the aroma. "Next year, unfurling the linens will bring the aroma of the holidays instead of the attic," says Shicotte.

Avoid the buffet crush