How to Look Good for Your New Girlfriend (in 20 Minutes)

You're dating someone new, and things look promising, so far. Out of the blue, she calls. She's suddenly in the vicinity and plans on stopping by for an impromptu visit. It's a reconnaissance mission to check you out, and see how you live as a single guy. You, of course, know this but you're caught off-guard because your cave is nothing short of a disaster zone. Enter a quick plan to get you and your place in respectable shape before she knocks on the door. You have twenty minutes to look good for your new girlfriend.

Minutes 1 through 4

Start with the living room. Place all magazines and anything else you don't want her to see into the nearest closet. Pick up any dishes and food items and dispatch them to the kitchen.

Smart tip: Don't vacuum because she'll notice the vacuum lines in the rug. It's a giveaway that you prepared for her visit. You don't want the impression you're trying too hard.

Minutes 5 through 8

Go to the kitchen. You want to look good for your new girlfriend here. If you don't have a dishwasher, chances are you have dishes piled up in the sink. You don't have time to clean, dry, and put them away. Grab a bathroom towel, place all the dirty dishes and silverware into the towel, and haul the bundle to the bathroom tub. Close the bathroom curtain.

Smart tip: Wipe off the counter tops, but don't use any cleaning spray. Her keen sense of smell will pick up the scent, so it's another giveaway you attempted cleaning prior to her arrival.

Minutes 9 through 11

Move to the bathroom. Wipe off the toilet seat and rinse out the sink. Place any toiletries into the medicine cabinet, so they're out of sight. In this area, a spray of Lysol is ok but just a quick spray only.

Smart tip: Make sure the bathtub curtain is completely shut.

Minutes 12 through 15

Hustle to the bedroom. Pick up all clothes off the floor and throw them into the closet. Fix the bed in a makeshift presentable manner.

Smart tip: Don't completely make the bed, just roll the sheets back.

Minutes 16 through 19

Do a quick cleanup of yourself in order to look good for your new girlfriend. Splash some water on your face, put some deodorant on, and use some mouthwash. Throw on a clean t-shirt if necessary.

Smart tip: Make a decision on whether to use cologne. She'll smell it, but it doesn't necessarily mean you're making too much of an effort. She'll appreciate good hygiene.

1 minute to spare

The last minute remains for any loose odds and ends. Scope the place, if it generally looks straightened up, you're golden. Relax, take a gulp of water, and well I think I hear someone at the door...