If you wish to maintain your rental in a blissful state and keep your guests happy, a good Airbnb cleaning checklist is an absolute must. Whether you host continuously or just rent your property sometimes, the cleanliness of your home is vital for great reviews and repeat bookings.
Whereas hotels have dedicated staff that clean each room, the Airbnb hosts themselves will either need to perform the turnover or hire a professional service. Airbnb also has an enhanced cleaning protocol that involves a five-step process, so a detailed checklist is a must.
Beyond great reviews, a well-maintained Airbnb prevents maintenance issues and meets guests’ high expectations for hygiene. In this guide, we’ll cover a simple yet effective cleaning checklist to ensure your property is guest-ready every time.
Airbnb Cleaning Checklist: Room-by-Room Guide
Cleaning an Airbnb is different from tidying up your own home. Every guest expects a spotless space, and even small details can make or break their experience. A well-structured Airbnb cleaning checklist ensures that nothing is overlooked and helps create a seamless transition between bookings.
Living Room & Common Areas
The living room is the first space seen by guests, so it should be very clean. All surfaces, including coffee tables, shelves, and electronics, should be dusted. Remote controls, light switches, and door handles must be wiped to remove fingerprints and bacteria.
The floors should be vacuumed or mopped, with extra care given to corners where dust gathers. If a rug or carpet is present, a deep clean should be done regularly to remove dirt and odors. Pillows, blankets, and decor should be arranged neatly to make the space feel inviting.
Lights must be checked to ensure they are working, and any burnt-out bulbs should be replaced. If a TV or game console is provided, it should be tested to make sure it works. A quick check of the WiFi and thermostat should be done to prevent any issues for guests.
Kitchen Cleaning Checklist for Airbnb
Even if visitors do not intend to cook, a clean kitchen is necessary for a pleasant stay. Start by cleaning and storing any leftover dishes from the last visit. Use a disinfectant to wipe down tables, chairs, and worktops to get rid of spills and crumbs.
Appliances ought to be thoroughly cleaned. Empty the refrigerator, clean the shelves, and discard any food that is left over. Remove any oil or food residue from the stoves, oven, and microwave. Make sure the kettle and coffee maker are clean and operational if you are providing them.
To get rid of any food residue, sweep and clean the floors. Replace the bin liner after taking out the garbage.
Bathroom Airbnb Cleaning Checklist
Bathrooms need extra attention to maintain high hygiene standards. Start by scrubbing the sink, toilet, and shower or bathtub. Pay close attention to drains and faucets, where grime tends to build up.
Replace used towels with fresh ones and check that toiletries like soap, shampoo, and toilet paper are fully stocked. Wipe down mirrors to remove water spots and streaks. Empty the trash bin and sanitize commonly touched areas like light switches, door handles, and toilet flush buttons.
Mop the floor and let the room air out to remove moisture and prevent mold. If you provide extras like a hairdryer, ensure it’s clean and working properly. A final check ensures everything looks fresh and inviting for the next guest.
Bedroom Turnover Cleaning Checklist
Guests expect a clean and comfortable sleeping space, so the bedroom should feel as fresh as a hotel room. Strip the bed and replace sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers with freshly laundered ones. Check under the bed and behind furniture for any forgotten items.
Dust all surfaces, including nightstands, lamps, and dressers. Wipe down light switches and remote controls. If the room has a wardrobe or drawers, ensure they are empty and free of dust.
Vacuum or mop the floors and shake out any rugs. Open the windows for fresh air if possible. A well-made bed, neatly arranged pillows, and a tidy space make a great impression on guests.
Outdoor & Entrance Areas
First impressions matter, and the entrance sets the tone for the stay. Sweep porches, balconies, and walkways to remove dirt and debris. Wipe down outdoor furniture and check for any signs of wear.
Make sure the door handle, lockbox, or keyless entry system is clean and functioning. A quick wipe of the front door and a welcome mat refresh can make a big difference. If you provide outdoor lighting, check that bulbs are working properly.
Essential Cleaning Supplies for Airbnb Hosts
Having the right cleaning supplies makes turnovers quicker and ensures your Airbnb meets high hygiene standards.
Must-Have Cleaning Products
A multi-surface cleaner works for countertops, tables, and high-touch areas. Disinfectants are essential for bathrooms and kitchens, while glass cleaner keeps mirrors and windows spotless. For floors, use a vacuum for carpets and a mop for hard surfaces.
Tools for a Thorough Clean
Stock microfiber cloths, scrub brushes, and disposable wipes for easy maintenance. Keep extra garbage bags, paper towels, and gloves handy to avoid last-minute shortages. A handheld vacuum helps with quick touch-ups.
Eco-Friendly Options
Consider plant-based cleaners, reusable cloths, and biodegradable soaps to reduce waste. Guests appreciate sustainable cleaning practices.
Keeping Supplies Organized
Store everything in a dedicated closet and label items for easy access. If using professional cleaners, provide a checklist to maintain consistency.
A well-stocked Airbnb cleaning kit ensures every turnover is efficient and stress-free, keeping your rental in top shape.
Deep Cleaning vs. Regular Turnover Cleaning: How Often?
Keeping an Airbnb clean isn’t just about tidying up between guests. While regular turnover cleaning ensures the property is guest-ready, deep cleaning is necessary to maintain long-term quality and hygiene.
Turnover Cleaning: Every Stay
Turnover cleaning happens after every guest checks out. This includes changing linens, wiping down surfaces, sanitizing high-touch areas, and restocking essentials. It keeps the space fresh and welcoming for the next booking.
Deep Cleaning: Every Few Months
A deep clean should be done at least every three to six months. This involves tasks like steam-cleaning carpets, washing curtains, scrubbing grout, and cleaning inside appliances. Regular deep cleaning prevents buildup of dust, mold, and odors that turnover cleaning might miss.
When to Schedule Extra Cleaning?
If your property has had back-to-back bookings or long-term guests, consider deep cleaning sooner. Seasonal changes, like winter dampness or summer dust, may also require extra attention.
Balancing turnover and deep cleaning ensures your Airbnb stays in top condition, leading to happier guests and better reviews.
Should You Hire a Professional Cleaning Service?
Deciding between DIY cleaning and hiring a professional depends on your schedule, budget, and booking frequency.
When to Clean Yourself
If you have one property and manageable turnover, handling cleaning yourself saves money and ensures quality control. It also lets you spot maintenance issues early.
When to Hire a Cleaning Service
For frequent bookings, multiple properties, or limited time, a professional Airbnb cleaning service can streamline turnovers. Cleaners follow a structured process and ensure consistently high standards, which helps maintain positive reviews.
Cost vs. Benefits
Cleaning services increase costs, but they save time and effort, making them a smart investment for busy hosts. Some firms even provide Airbnb-specific thorough cleaning programs, which aid in long-term home care.
Check out Keey’s housekeeping services for professional Airbnb cleaning that keeps your property guest-ready.
Final Touches to Impress Your Guests
A clean Airbnb is essential, but small finishing touches can elevate the guest experience and lead to glowing reviews.
Add a Personal Touch
A simple welcome note, a small local snack, or fresh flowers can make guests feel at home. These small gestures create a memorable stay and set your property apart.
Double-Check Essentials
Have WiFi details, spare toiletries, and fresh towels ready before guests arrive. Confirm that all appliances, lights, and locks are operating correctly.
Prepare a Clean Space with Fresh Air
Open windows for fresh air, wear a light, neutral fragrance, and make sure beds are tidily made. A final walkthrough also helps you catch anything that may have been overlooked.
These little touches can go a long way in terms of guest satisfaction and repeat bookings.
By following this guide and putting on thoughtful finishing touches, you’ll support a consistently high standard of cleanliness, resulting in better reviews, increased bookings, and happy guests.
FAQ: Airbnb Cleaning Checklist
1. How often should I do a deep clean on my Airbnb?
You should do a deep clean every three to six months, based on how often you are booked. If you see back-to-back guests or long-term stays, do a deeper clean more frequently so dust, grime, and odors don’t have a chance to build up.
2. Can I charge guests a cleaning fee?
Yes, Airbnb provides an option for hosts to set a cleaning fee to cover turnover cleaning. Keep it reasonable to be competitive, and be specific about what it covers, like laundry, sanitizing, and replenishing necessities.
3. What are the most frequently missed cleaning spots?
Some places hosts often forget to clean are light switches, remote controls, under beds, inside appliances, and behind furniture. Acquiring these items for your Airbnb cleaning checklist makes for a truly immaculate stay for guests.
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