Guests rate small properties against hotel expectations — charging by the bed, a decent kettle tray, an iron that works. This hub is the equipment list we supply to guest houses, B&Bs and serviced-accommodation hosts, organised the way you set up a room.
The bedside test
The first thing guests check: can they charge their phone from bed? A USB-A+C socket each side beats adaptor strips for safety and looks. Our USB socket install guide covers the swap; matched finishes across the room are what make a small property feel considered — see the finishes guide.
The welcome tray
Welcome tray sets, compact steel kettles and sachet holders from Corby of Windsor — hospitality-grade, so they survive daily guest use. The kettle & tray guide compares options by room size.
Ironing & garment care
Irons walk out of guest rooms more often than towels. Hotel practice is a steam iron with anti-theft security box plus a compact board — or a Corby trouser press for the premium touch (compared in our trouser press guide).
Bathroom & hair care
Wall-mounted hair dryers can't disappear and free drawer space; portable dryers with storage bags feel more homely — our comparison guide picks by property type. Shaver points and bathroom electrics must respect zones: bathroom zones explained.
The details guests notice
Luggage racks, proper hangers, bins, tissue box covers and bedside torches & alarm clocks — the difference between a spare room and a listing that reviews well.
Safety & compliance for paying guests
Hosting paying guests brings duties: smoke/heat detection, fire doors on escape routes in larger properties, and safe electrics. Start with the fire safety guide, EICR checklist and fire door seals. Emergency lighting for larger guest houses: BS 5266 guide.
Buying smart as a small property
- Multi-buy savings apply automatically from just 2 units — useful when you're equipping 4–12 rooms.
- A trade account isn't just for big hotels — guest houses and SA hosts qualify.
- Setting up from scratch? Request a quote with your room count and we'll build the list.