Guest bedrooms are generally the last room in a house that receives attention. Frequently, the spare bedroom becomes a graveyard full of old outdated furniture. Guest who visit the home are then subject to uncomfortable, lumpy beds and nightstands that have an uncountable number of drink ring stains.

It is time to take the opportunity to redecorate and refurnish the guest room, and treat your visitors to a vacation-like stay. Here are several pointers that will have out-of-town family members and old high school friends refreshed from a stay at your home.

* Paint instantly refreshes any room. Make sure you fill in holes and clean the walls first. Use a soft tone to relax your visitors, and avoid reds and oranges, which are invigorating rather than calming colors.

* Display brochures of local attractions and events provided free from the tourist bureau. This assists your guest in determining what they would like to do while they are visiting. It is always helpful if you also have activity suggestions.

* Choose a theme for decor. Successful resorts and bed-and-breakfast establishments have used this technique for years. It is easy to go overboard, so proceed in moderation.

* Provide reading material for guests who arrive without books or magazines. If possible, supply a book that is set in the area, like Huckleberry Finn if you live near the Mississippi River or The Firm if you live in Memphis.

* Install window coverings that mostly darken the room, allowing your guests to sleep late if they prefer. Interior shutters are a perfect choice because they are easy to control, look great in any dcor, and keep the room relatively dark. Do provide an alarm clock for guests that want to get up before 10:00.

* In the bathroom, arrange toiletries in baskets or trays with folded towels and washcloths. Collect shampoos and soaps from hotels when you travel for a nice touch. Additional items that may be welcomed include suntan lotion, aspirin, contact case, face lotion, shaving cream, razor, and new toothpaste and spare toothbrush.

* Treat yourself and stay one night in your new retreat. You may find that you need to provide an extra blanket or the night-light is too bright. Use the bathing facilities to evaluate the water pressure and make sure the drain works properly.

Now, if you hate to entertain overnight guests, leave the cobwebs and the faded lampshade. Few people will return to another restless nights sleep.