Airbnb Cleaning Checklist [Ultimate Airbnb Cleaning Guide]

Jon Margalit • September 19, 2023

The key to running a successful Airbnb is prioritizing the guest experience above all else. From the moment guests check-in, the place must look, smell, and feel like a 5-star hotel.

Every detail matters! A great example is a toilet sanitization strip which provides a classy and elegant touch to let guests know you've sanitized and cleaned their toilet.

No matter the location or age of the property, the home's cleanliness will ultimately determine whether guests feel that their perceived value of the stay is aligned with the price they paid. A clean and tidy space is what your guests expect when they book your property, and it's your responsibility as a host to make sure that you meet that expectation.

But keeping an Airbnb clean can be overwhelming, especially if you are new to hosting. In this ultimate Airbnb cleaning guide, Happy Home Helpers has created a comprehensive cleaning checklist that will make your life easier.

Create a consistent schedule

A good rule of thumb is to always schedule your cleaning (if possible) on the same day the guests check-out. If your property is booked with back-to-back stays, make sure to allocate enough time between check-out and check-in for a thorough cleaning.

We recommend allowing at least 4 to 6 hours for this process. Most of our clients set the check-out time between 10-11 a.m. and the check-in time between 4-5 p.m.

This is a short window to ensure that all surfaces are cleaned and disinfected, appliances are cleaned out, linens and towels are changed, and the property is ventilated.

Hiring a professional cleaning service that specializes in cleaning short-term rentals is the best way to ensure your Airbnb is always ready on time. Depending on the size of your property and how many beds it has, it may require more than 1 cleaner to turn it and it may require offsite laundry.

Maintain an Organized Supply Closet Stocked With Backups

Having a fully stocked supply closet ensures that you're prepared for any situation, whether it's an unexpected mess to clean up or you need to replace damaged or lost items.

We recommend stocking all white bedding and towels so you can eliminate stains with bleach and extend their shelf life. Sheets and towels stain easily and need to be replaced often. Skin and hair oils, blood, makeup, and urine are the most common culprits we find.

Always keep a backup stock of sheets, bath towels, hand towels, and comforters. If stains cannot be removed, you won't have time to purchase new ones, so every time you use the backups be sure to replace them.

Always stock cleaning supplies that include multi-purpose cleaners, window cleaners, disinfectant sprays, floor cleaners, bathroom cleaners, and scrub brushes. Additionally, stock up on paper products such as paper towels and toilet paper.

Lastly, always have extra shampoo, conditioner, hand soap, laundry detergent, dryer sheets, etc. on hand. Think about what your guests might need for a comfortable stay and keep those items available for them in small quantities.

We recommend rationing supplies and towels, leaving out only enough for the number of guests that are staying and the duration of the booking. We've found that if you leave out more than enough, guests end up using it all or taking the extra supplies with them.

Put a simple keyless entry lock on the supply closet. This ensures the guests can't enter without your permission and help themselves to all of the stocked supplies.

Keeping your supply closet filled and organized makes the cleaning process more efficient. Whether you clean the Airbnb yourself or hire professional cleaners, it's best that everyone can easily find the needed supply refills and replacements.

Assessing and Documenting Potential Damage

Before the cleaning process begins, it's crucial to walk through your property and assess any potential damage that may have occurred during the previous booking. This step is pivotal in maintaining the quality of your Airbnb over time.

Start by checking for any obvious signs of damage, like broken items, or less apparent signs, like stains on the carpet or upholstery. Don't forget to check the functionality of appliances, furniture, and electronics.

Make a detailed list of all the damages you notice. Taking photos is the best way to keep visual records that will be invaluable in the event you need to file a claim for damages caused by guests.

This practice ensures that you don't overlook any damages and allows you to take appropriate steps for repair or replacement before your next guests arrive.

Start with the kitchen

The kitchen is the heart of a home and the most important area that needs to be spotless when guests arrive. Every drawer and cabinet must be cleaned out and its contents organized.

The goal should be to eliminate any signs or traces of the previous guests. This means that all appliances need to be empty and clean. The kitchen sink, countertops, and floors will be noticed. Dispose of any food and empty the trash can.

Leaving a sufficient supply of trashbags for the duration of the guest's stay is crucial. Also, make sure that dishes and cookware are clean and put away in the right places and that the kitchen is stocked with paper towels, dishwasher detergent, and soap for handwashing pots and pans.

Sometimes it's the little things that leave a big impression. Leave a fresh dish towel so the guests can dry their hands or dishes as well as a brand-new sponge.

Freshen up the bedrooms

The bedrooms in your Airbnb should be the epitome of comfort and cleanliness. Wash the linens, including sheets, pillowcases, and comforters, after each guest's stay.

The bed should be the focal point of the room as it's often the first thing your guests see when they enter the bedroom. A well-made bed is inviting, comforting, and a visual treat.

Start with mattress and pillow protectors. We cannot express how important it is to preserve the cleanliness of the mattress and the pillows from day one. Next, always have a clean, wrinkle-free bedsheet, preferably in a neutral shade. A fluffy and clean comforter is a must, and don't forget to fluff up the pillows too.

When you are making the bed inspect every linen for stray hairs. Sometimes, even during the washing and drying cycles hair can get stuck in the sheets. Nothing ruins a guest's experience faster than pulling back the covers to find unwanted hair.

Also, consider putting a fresh set of towels on the bed for your guests. Vacuum carpets and rugs, dust all surfaces, and wipe down furniture. Pinesol is our favorite surface and furniture cleaner because it has that classic American clean scent.

Finally, make sure every bedroom is organized so there's enough storage for your guests' clothing and luggage.

Tidy up the bathroom

A clean bathroom is a non-negotiable. Make sure the toilets, sinks, showers, bathtubs, and mirrors are sparkling.

Providing a selection of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion and even a few extras like cotton balls, q-tips or makeup remover wipes can greatly enhance your guests' experience, making them feel catered to and adding a touch of luxury to their stay.

Don't overcrowd the available counter space. Some guests bring their own toiletries based on preferences and sensitivities. Lastly, don't forget to empty every trash can, replace the liners, and leave out extra rolls of toilet paper.

Pay attention to the small details

The smallest details matter when it comes to Airbnb cleaning. Make sure to check all areas of your rental, including ceiling fans, windows, doors, and light fixtures.

Pay attention to the outdoor areas, like balconies and patios, and make sure that they're clean and welcoming. Dust off and wipe down all outdoor furniture so it looks and feels presentable.

Take stock of your towels and linens - are any stained or torn? Are you a few sheets short of what you need to make all the beds? Is your lint catcher in your dryer full?

Furthermore, make sure to check all drains in the property - in the kitchen sink, bathroom sink, and shower or bathtub. If you find any that are slow or partially blocked, make sure to unclog them before your next guests arrive.

Staging the property

Staging your Airbnb property goes a long way in creating a positive first impression for your guests. Start by decluttering the space and removing any personal items.

Consider investing in quality, stylish furniture that is comfortable and functional. Add soft furnishings like rugs, throw pillows, and curtains that complement the interior design.

Lastly, don't forget to add some personal touches, like a welcome basket with local products or a guidebook with your favorite local spots, to make your guests feel at home. Remember, a well-staged property is not only visually satisfying, it adds to the guests' experience, leaving a more lasting impression.

If you have different cleaners maintaining the home, leave a lookbook with staging photos for reference so they know exactly how to display the details.

Consider Hiring Professionals

If you own multiple Airbnb properties or run an Airbnb as a means of passive income in addition to your day job, keeping up with the cleaning schedule can be a challenging task. In such situations, it could be beneficial to hire professional cleaning services.

They bring expertise and efficiency to the table, ensuring your properties are spotless and ready for the next guest. This not only saves you valuable time but also ensures high standards of hygiene and cleanliness.

Moreover, a professional cleaning team can handle high occupancy periods effortlessly, ensuring uninterrupted service. Remember, a meticulously maintained property is always appealing to guests, leading to positive reviews and repeat bookings.

This will also ensure your Airbnb property is always ready before the next guest's arrival. Furthermore, having a shared calendar minimizes the risk of miscommunication, enhancing the overall efficiency of your Airbnb management .

Conclusion:

In all, maintaining an immaculate space is absolutely essential to the success of your Airbnb venture. Remember, a clean, well-maintained property can lead to positive reviews, increased bookings, and a solid reputation.

Embrace a systematic approach, pay attention to every detail, and when necessary, don't hesitate to seek professional help. At Happy Home Helpers, we specialize in professional Airbnb cleaning solutions tailored to meet the exact needs of your property.

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