Airbnb and Short Term Rental Cleaning: A Guide for Hosts
Running an Airbnb or short-term rental is a fantastic way to earn extra income, but keeping it clean is crucial for success. Did you know that nearly 70% of negative reviews on short-term rental platforms mention cleanliness issues? First impressions matter, and cleanliness can make or break your rental's reputation. At Mi Madre Cleaning, we understand the importance of keeping your rental spotless. Let’s dive into the essential components of Airbnb and short-term rental cleaning, and why it's worth getting it right every single time.
Why Cleanliness is Key to Success
A sparkling clean rental isn't just nice to have—it's essential. Guests expect a high level of cleanliness, and they won’t hesitate to mention any shortcomings in their reviews. In today’s competitive rental market, even a small lapse can lead to a bad review, which can ultimately impact your booking rates. A clean rental means happy guests, positive reviews, and ultimately, higher occupancy rates.
Maintaining a spotless rental property also protects your investment. Regular, professional cleaning helps prevent long-term damage to your property and keeps everything looking and functioning its best. Cleanliness helps prolong the life of your furniture, flooring, and fixtures, saving you money on repairs and replacements in the long run.
The Essential Cleaning Checklist for Airbnb Hosts
When it comes to short-term rentals, every detail matters. Here's a room-by-room checklist to ensure your Airbnb or rental property is guest-ready.
1. Living Room
Dust and Wipe Surfaces: Dust all surfaces, including shelves, tables, and entertainment centers. Don’t forget lamps, picture frames, and decorative items.
Vacuum and Mop Floors: Whether you have carpet, hardwood, or tile, make sure the floors are clean and debris-free. For a touch of luxury, use a fresh vacuum pattern on the carpet to show guests it’s been cleaned.
Inspect Upholstery: Check for stains and crumbs on sofas and chairs. Vacuum the upholstery and use spot cleaner as needed.
2. Kitchen
Clean Countertops and Sink: Kitchen cleanliness is a top priority for guests. Wipe down all countertops, the sink, and backsplash to remove any residue.
Appliance Cleaning: Don’t skip the appliances! Clean the inside of the microwave, wipe down the stove, and empty the fridge of any leftover food.
Restock Essentials: Make sure there are fresh dish towels, soap, and enough kitchen supplies for the guests' stay.
3. Bathrooms
Disinfect Surfaces: The bathroom must be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Scrub the toilet, sink, shower, and tub, and wipe down mirrors and fixtures.
Replace Towels and Toiletries: Place clean, fresh towels for guests and make sure there is plenty of toilet paper, hand soap, and other essential toiletries.
Check for Mildew: Make sure no mildew is visible in the shower or sink. Guests expect a spotless bathroom—missing this step can lead to complaints.
4. Bedrooms
Change Bed Linens: Always replace sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers between guests. Make the bed neatly to give that "hotel-like" experience.
Dust and Vacuum: Dust all surfaces, including nightstands, dressers, and lamps. Make sure to vacuum the floors, even under the bed.
Check Storage Areas: Guests may use closets and drawers, so ensure they’re clean and empty, except for any amenities you provide, like extra blankets.
Deep Cleaning vs. Turnover Cleaning
It’s important to differentiate between turnover cleaning and deep cleaning. Turnover cleaning is what happens between each guest stay: it’s all about making sure the property looks fresh and clean for the next guest. This includes wiping down surfaces, changing linens, and doing a basic disinfecting.
Deep cleaning, on the other hand, should be done periodically. This involves cleaning areas that aren’t typically addressed during a turnover, like washing baseboards, deep cleaning carpets, and scrubbing grout. We recommend scheduling a deep clean every few months, especially if your property is consistently booked. Deep cleaning helps maintain the overall quality of your rental and prevents dirt and grime from building up over time.
Tips for Efficient Turnover Cleaning
1. Streamline Your Supplies
Having a cleaning caddy stocked with all necessary supplies can make turnover cleaning much quicker. Keep an all-purpose cleaner, glass cleaner, microfiber cloths, and disinfecting wipes handy. If you have a system in place, you’ll spend less time searching for supplies and more time cleaning efficiently.
2. Create a Cleaning Checklist
A checklist ensures that nothing gets missed during turnover cleaning. Room-by-room checklists help keep the process consistent and thorough, even if you have multiple properties to manage. Make sure your checklist covers all the essential areas, from wiping down surfaces to replacing toiletries.
3. Hire a Professional Cleaning Service
Let’s face it—keeping up with Airbnb turnovers can be exhausting, especially if you have back-to-back bookings. Hiring a professional cleaning service like Mi Madre Cleaning not only saves you time but also guarantees a high standard of cleanliness. Professional cleaners have the experience and equipment to get the job done efficiently, ensuring your guests are always greeted with a spotless space.
Common Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid
1. Neglecting High-Touch Areas
High-touch areas like light switches, remote controls, and door handles are often overlooked. These areas can harbor germs, and skipping them can lead to negative guest feedback. Always disinfect these spots during turnover cleaning.
2. Using Strong Scents
While it’s tempting to use air fresheners, be careful not to go overboard. Strong scents can be off-putting to some guests, especially those with allergies or sensitivities. Instead, focus on creating a neutral, clean-smelling environment by thoroughly cleaning and airing out the space.
3. Forgetting to Restock Essentials
There’s nothing more frustrating for a guest than running out of toilet paper or dish soap. Always double-check that essentials are well-stocked before new guests arrive. This simple step can make a big difference in the guest experience.
Conclusion
Airbnb and short-term rental cleaning can be the difference between a glowing review and a disappointing one. Cleanliness is the foundation of guest satisfaction, and ensuring your rental is spotless is key to running a successful short-term rental business. With a thorough cleaning routine, attention to detail, and possibly the help of a professional cleaning service like Mi Madre Cleaning, you can ensure that every guest enjoys a five-star stay.
If managing all the cleaning tasks feels overwhelming, remember that Mi Madre Cleaning is here to help. We specialize in Airbnb and short-term rental cleaning services, ensuring your property is always guest-ready. Reach out to us today to find out how we can make your hosting experience stress-free and successful!
