Cleaning hacks that will make your life easier as an Airbnb host or holiday let owner

Establishing a cleaning routine

Ensuring a comfortable stay for your guests requires the establishment of an effective cleaning routine. Start by identifying tasks that need to be completed after each guest's stay, such as washing, vacuuming, disinfecting, and restocking essential items.

We suggest creating a checklist of these tasks to simplify the process and ensure every critical task is completed - you can refer to the advice from Airbnb, for further guidance.

If you choose to outsource cleaning, clearly communicate your expectations and standards to the cleaners. To avoid confusion, provide them with the checklist and walk them through the process. Always have a backup plan in case your cleaner can't make it. In addition to cleaning between each guest's stay, schedule deep cleanings periodically to address areas that may be overlooked during regular cleanings, such as carpets and curtains.

If you're listing on multiple platforms, keeping on top of turnaround times becomes even more important. A channel management tool like Travelnest can sync your calendars across Airbnb, Booking.com, Vrbo and more, so you always know when your next guest is arriving and can schedule cleaning accordingly.

Consider the time you'll need to clean between guests

Sometimes guests may leave the property in a less-than-ideal state. It happens and can make the cleaning process take longer than expected. But here's the thing: rushing through the cleaning won't work. You've got to take the time to do it right.

Allow yourself more time than you initially thought. Give each room the attention it deserves and schedule a day between guests to keep up those cleanliness standards right from the start. That way, you'll have enough time to clean and sanitise every nook and cranny.

This approach is about ensuring each new guest walks into a spotless and safe environment. It's like rolling out the red carpet for them. A clean, welcoming space sets the tone for the entire stay and often shows up in your reviews. Take the time, clean it up right, and watch your guests be blown away by your attention to detail. It's the little things that make all the difference.

Focus on the areas guests notice most

Kitchen: Your Airbnb kitchen should be clean and well-stocked, providing guests with a safe and hygienic space to prepare delightful meals. 

First things first, say goodbye to any leftover food hiding in the freezer. Toss it out and make room for fresh ingredients. Then, give that oven a good scrub and check those cabinets for cleanliness and organisation. No one likes surprises when they're searching for a snack!

Next up, let's check those small appliances. Give the toasters and coffee machines a test run to ensure they work well. Remember to empty that kettle. We want everything to be spick and span for your guests.

Clean under the sink, dust those shelves like a pro, and ensure you have plenty of dish soap and detergent on hand. Oh, and keep that floor clean and trash-free.

Last but not least, empty that dishwasher and make sure those countertops are shining bright.

Bathroom: Guests appreciate a clean and tidy bathroom, so make sure you give it a good scrub. To make your guests find a spotless bathroom follow these steps as follows:

• Start by cleaning the shower head and vanity area.

• Stock the cabinet with essentials and clean the toilet both inside and outside.

• Sanitise the bathroom and wipe down the walls and tiles.

• Check the bathtub for hair residue and address the shower curtain or glass-encased shower.

• Remember to refill shampoos and conditioners, ensuring they are at least half full.

By following these steps, you'll ensure your guests will have a spotless bathroom once they stay in your Airbnb. Remember to check for any leftover toiletries or stray hairs that might have escaped during the last guest's stay. It's all about those little details that can make a big difference. You can also check Airbnb's bathroom cleaning checklist. So get ready to impress your guests with a clean, fresh, and inviting bathroom. 

Bedroom: Every guest appreciates a fresh-smelling bedroom. You must focus on every detail and be prepared to have extra supplies such as clean sheets, pillowcases, and towels in case your guests need them.

To get started:

1. Gather your cleaning supplies.

2. Grab some disinfectant wipes, microfiber cloths, a vacuum cleaner, laundry detergent, and fresh linens.

3. Start by dusting all the surfaces in the bedroom.

Nightstands, dressers, and headboards, every surface should be noticed. Once the dusting is done, it's time to tackle those high-touch areas: Disinfect doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls.

Give that floor a good vacuum and mop, paying extra attention to corners and under the bed. Once the bedroom is clean, make the bed with fresh linens and add finishing touches to make the room welcoming. These could include a small vase of fresh flowers on the nightstand, a stack of neatly folded towels, or a welcome note for your guests. They all add that special touch.

You can also use automated messaging to let guests know their room is ready or to share check-in instructions ahead of arrival. Tools like Travelnest's guest messaging feature make it easy to keep communication consistent without sending every message manually.

Don't overlook any small details

When hosting guests, it's critical to pay attention to the details. Experienced holiday let hosts emphasise cleanliness and tidiness, reinforcing that even minor aspects can significantly influence a guest's experience. For instance, some Airbnb hosts recommend using a lint roller on bedding after washing to catch stray hairs. Others advise giving bathroom floors and drains a thorough cleaning. It's also vital to keep amenities well-stocked and include personal touches to make guests feel welcome. These small details can go a long way in demonstrating to guests that they are valued.

Maintaining a high standard of cleanliness in your holiday rental is one of the most important parts of successful hosting. It leads to better guest experiences, stronger reviews and more repeat bookings. The key to an effective cleaning routine is organisation and attention to detail, and the right tools can make the whole process easier. With Travelnest, you can manage your listings, sync calendars, automate guest messages and get support from our property experts, all from one dashboard. That means less time on admin and more time making sure your property is guest-ready.