Airbnb Cleaning Checklist: The Secret to Superhost Status

Jon Margalit • September 19, 2023

Hey there, future Airbnb Superhosts! How an Airbnb cleaning checklist can help your short-term or vacation rental shine above the competition.


Let’s be real, that shine of a 5-star review isn’t in the luxe amenities or Insta-worthy decor; it’s in the gleam of a well-scrubbed toilet and crispness of clean sheets. Yes, we are referring to the secret weapon of the Airbnb industry: the Airbnb cleaning checklist.


Sure, any photo can be lightened or photoshopped to shine but the second your guests make it into your home they not only would want to see pristine cleanliness but also love the fresh scent of everything being clean.


​One of the tips for success and stand out amongst all other properties in the competitive Airbnb world is to ensure your soaps are really good! Whether you do the cleaning yourself or hire a professional service to perform the work, you will need a checklist to make sure it all gets done.


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.


Cleaning Schedule: Your New Best Friend

Make a cleaning ritual as sacred as your morning coffee. It’s, ideally, a quick operation between check-out and check-in. It’s a bit like a pit stop in a race — efficient, thorough and, somehow, always against time.

The Magic Closet

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

Ever had a “guest” use your towel as a modern art canvas with their moisturizer? You’ll have this Airbnb cleaning checklist in hand.

Damage Control

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


Document it. It’s not about assigning blame; it’s about holding on.


Kitchen Commandments

The kitchen should be so spotless, even guests question whether anyone has ever cooked in it.


Flush out the leftovers, polish the chrome and leave only room for gastronomic greatness.

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.


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 Airbnb 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: Walk through the entire space to make sure it is dusted, vacuumed and clean. What you missed on first pass-through you catch the second time around.
  • Disinfect High-Touch Areas: After COVID, guests expect things CLEAN and sanitized more than ever. Clean and disinfect doorknobs, light switches, remotes and countertops.
  • Functional: The function of the place. Check that you have power to all appliances, electronics and lights.
  • Safety: Check that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning. Also, keep a well-stocked first aid kit readily available on the premises.
  • Keep the Outdoor Spaces: While it works on a lot of environments, in Vegas individuals wish to enjoy themselves outdoors. Clean and tidy outdoor aspect – furniture should be clean, overgrown gardens/patios well-maintained.


Kitchen

  • Make Sure Appliances Are Clean & Empty: Refrigerator, microwave and oven should be clean and empty.Stock Essentials: Check the essentials. There should be a decent supply of tea, coffee, sugar, paper towels and basic condiments.
  • Stock Up the Kitchen With Cooking Tools: When it comes to cooking, Airbnb guests want a stocked kitchen with high-end cooking tools. Always consider that you have enough pots, pans, utensils and plates for the maximum number of people.
  • Stock Up On Cleaners: You have to keep dish soap, dishwasher tablets and cleaning supplies for your guests so they know you care and encourage cleanliness.


Bedrooms

  • Stock Up on the Fresh Linens: Spend extra time making sure all beds have fresh, clean sheets and that there’s an abundance of extra blankets.
  • Pillows: At least two per guest (more if needed).Storage Space Check to make sure there’s enough closet or drawer space for all the guests’ things.



Bathrooms

  • Provide Ample Towels: Ensure each guest has a full set of towels (bath, hand and face).
  • Load Up On Toiletries: Buy toilet paper, hand soap, shampoo, conditioner and body wash.put
  • Inspect from Top to Bottom for Hygiene: Make sure the bathroom is spotless, especially 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: Put together a packet or binder that includes 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 finishing check-out send a thank you message and kindly request for any feedback or 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.

Just remember that details are the key to an Airbnb experience with this winning strategy. Going above and beyond in preparing your space can lead to glowing reviews and repeat guests.


Overview Air Airbnb Cleaning Checklist Wrap-Up


Your secret weapon to becoming a Superhost is keeping your Airbnb immaculate. It’s about making an experience that feels personal, welcoming and most of all, clean.


It’s time to roll up your sleeves and grab that wand (i.e., mop)—and watch those 5-star reviews come rolling in!

Need a professional cleaning service?


Let Happy Home Helpers help your Airbnb shine! Most important thing here is to contact us for a get free quote and sparkle session!