Airbnb Cleaning Checklist: The Secret to Superhost Status

Hey there, future Airbnb Superhosts! Learn how an Airbnb cleaning checklist can make your short-term or vacation rental stand out from the rest. 

Let's face it, the glitter of a 5-star review isn't just in the fancy amenities or the Insta-worthy decor; it's in the sparkle of a well-scrubbed toilet and the crispness of freshly laundered sheets. Yes, we're talking about the unsung hero of the Airbnb world: the Airbnb cleaning checklist. 

Any photo can be lightened or photoshopped to shine, but when your guests arrive they want to not only see pristine cleanliness but also enjoy the refreshing smell of everything being clean. 

One of the keys to standing out in the highly competitive world of Airbnb is to make sure yours is outstandingly clean! Whether you clean the place yourself or task the job to a professional cleaning service, you’ll need a checklist to ensure it gets done right. 

In this article, we are going to help you create a winning Airbnb Cleaning Checklist.

Airbnb First Impressions Are Everything

You have one chance to make an impression when your guests arrive. The first place many heads after a long car ride or flight - the bathroom. 

Imagine your guests walking in, and the place is so clean they could eat off the floor (but, please, let's stick to plates). That's the goal. 

Nothing says "I care" quite like a toilet with a sanitization strip. It's like a mint on the pillowcase but for your bathroom.

It's All About the Vibe

Your place doesn't just have to be clean; it needs to feel like a retreat from the wilds of the outside world. Whether your Airbnb pad is a chic city loft or a cozy cabin in the woods, cleanliness assures guests they've gotten their money's worth.

The Cleaning Schedule: Your New Best Friend

Lock in a cleaning ritual as sacred as your morning coffee. Ideally, it’s a swift operation between check-out and check-in. Think of it as a pit stop in a race – efficient, thorough, and, somehow, always against the clock.

The Magic Closet

Your supply closet is going to be your magic wand. Stocked with all white linens (because bleach is your friend), a battalion of cleaning supplies, and backups for your backups. 

Ever had a guest turn a towel into a modern art masterpiece with their makeup? You’ll be ready with this Airbnb cleaning checklist. 

Damage Control

Before you kick off cleaning, do a detective walk-through. Any new scratches, dents, or modern art on the walls?

Document it. It’s not about blaming; it’s about maintaining.

Kitchen Commandments

The kitchen should be so clean that guests wonder if anyone has ever cooked there. 

Clear out leftovers, make the chrome shine, and leave nothing behind but the potential for culinary masterpieces.

Bedroom Bliss

In the bedroom, it’s all about the bed. For most, the bedroom is a retreat and a place to get some much-needed rest. 

Crisp, clean sheets are non-negotiable. And inspect those linens closely – a stray hair can haunt a guest's dreams.

Bathroom Basics

The bathroom should gleam. Stock it with essentials plus a few luxuries, like fancy soaps or fluffy towels. It's the little touches that count.

Don't Miss the Details

Dust on the ceiling fan? Cobwebs in the corner? Guests will notice. 

And don’t forget the outside – a clean entrance sets the tone.

Staging for Success

A well-staged home isn’t just nice to look at; it feels inviting. 

Leave a little welcome surprise, like local snacks or a handwritten note. It’s like giving your guests a warm hug (but, you know, without the actual hugging).

Calling in the Cavalry

If cleaning feels like battling a hydra – chop off one mess and two more appear – it might be time to call a professional cleaning crew. They’re the superheroes of sparkle.

A MUST-HAVE Airbnb Cleaning Checklist

Creating a winning Airbnb checklist is all about ensuring your guests have a seamless, comfortable, and memorable stay. 

Here's a complete Airbnd cleaning checklist that not only covers the basics but also adds a few extra touches to make your place stand out from the rest: 

Pre-Arrival Preparation

• Confirm Booking Details: Yes, details matter so you know what to expect. Verify the reservation dates, number of guests, and any special requests.
• Personalization Takes it to the Next Level: Send a personalized message with check-in instructions, Wi-Fi password, and contact information - it’ll help make your guests feel special.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Check for Cleanliness: Carry out a walk-through to ensure the entire place is dusted, vacuumed, and spotlessly clean. What you missed on an initial pass-through you might notice the second time around. 

Sanitize High-Touch Areas: Post-COVID, guests want things CLEAN and sanitized more than ever. Disinfect doorknobs, light switches, remotes, and countertops.

Functional Check: Check the operations of the place. Make sure all appliances, electronics, and lights are working.

Safety Inspection: Verify smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are properly working. Also, maintain a top-notch first aid kit that is fully stocked on the premises. 

Maintain the Outdoor Spaces: In Vegas, people want to spend time outdoors. Clean and tidy outdoor areas, ensuring furniture is clean and gardens or patios are well-maintained.

Kitchen

• Check to Ensure the Appliances Are Clean and Empty: The fridge, microwave, oven, and dishwasher should be clean and empty.
• Stock Essentials: Check the essentials. Ideally, there should be an ample supply of tea, coffee, sugar, paper towels, and basic condiments. 
• Load Up the Kitchen With Cooking Supplies: Airbnb guests want a well-stocked kitchen with the latest cooking gadgets. Always take the time to check that there are enough pots, pans, utensils, and dishes for the maximum number of guests.
• Stock Up On Cleaning Supplies: You should always provide dish soap, dishwasher tablets, and cleaning materials for your guests to encourage cleanliness and show that you care. 

Bedrooms

• Stock Up on the Fresh Linens: Take a few moments to check for fresh, clean sheets on all beds, with extra blankets available.
• Pillows: Provide at least two comfortable pillows per guest - or more if needed.
• Storage Space: Check to ensure there's ample closet or drawer space for all of the guests' belongings.

Bathrooms

• Provide Ample Towels: Supply a full set of towels (bath, hand, and face) for each guest.
• Load Up On Toiletries: Stock up on toilet paper, hand soap, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.
• Check from Top to Bottom for Cleanliness: Ensure the bathroom is sparkling clean, with special attention to the toilet, shower, and sink.

Living Area

Take a Moment to Weigh the Comfort: Yes, take a load off and check that seating is comfortable and sufficient for the number of guests.

Provide Entertainment: Test the TV, and streaming services, and leave detailed instructions for use.

Information Packet: Leave a packet or binder with house rules, emergency contact numbers, local guides, and recommendations.

Extras for a Winning Touch

• Provide a Nice Welcome Basket: Most guests appreciate a small welcome basket with snacks, local treats, or a bottle of wine so why not go the extra mile?
• Leave a Personal Note: Taking the time to leave behind a handwritten note can add a warm, personal touch to welcome your guests.
• Invest in a Local Guidebook: Leave a local guidebook with local spots, tips, and tricks to help guests enjoy the area. Vegas is filled with fun - so let your guests get the upper hand on the planning with a guidebook. 
• Always Provide Contact Information: Make sure guests have a way to reach you 24/7 in case of emergencies or questions.

Post-Departure

• Don’t Hesitate to Ask for Feedback: After check-out, send a thank you message and kindly ask for feedback or a review.
• Carry Out an Inventory Check: Quickly inventory the space for any damage or missing items.
• Reset and Clean for the Next Guests: Replenish all of the Airbnb supplies, and prepare the space for your next guests.

Remember, the key to a winning Airbnb experience is in the details. Going above and beyond in preparing your space can lead to glowing reviews and repeat guests.

Wrap-Up Wisdom With the Airbnb Cleaning Checklist 

Keeping your Airbnb spotless is your secret weapon to becoming a Superhost. It’s about creating an experience that feels personal, welcoming, and above all, clean.

It’s time to grab your gloves and your magic wand (aka mop), and let’s make those 5-star reviews roll in!

Need a professional cleaning service? 

Happy Home Helpers is here to make your Airbnb shine. Drop us a line for a free quote and sparkle session!