When it comes to managing a short-term rental, cleanliness isn’t just a nice gesture—it’s a business essential. Whether you’re a seasoned host or preparing for your first guests, knowing how to clean an Airbnb properly can make or break your reviews. Cleanliness is one of the key factors that determines guest satisfaction, and even the most charming listing can earn negative feedback if it’s not fresh and clean upon arrival.
Let’s take a look at how to clean Airbnb efficiently and thoroughly, without cutting corners or relying on harsh chemicals. If you’re looking for guidance on how to clean Airbnb’s regularly or between guests, you’re in the right place.
How to Clean an Airbnb: A Step-by-Step Guide
Your guests expect a clean Airbnb that makes them feel comfortable, welcomed, and safe. With travelers becoming increasingly selective, especially post-pandemic, a sparkling clean space is no longer negotiable but expected. Many guests also compare the cleanliness of an Airbnb to hotel standards, which means hosts must meet high expectations.
A fresh, tidy space leads to better reviews, repeat bookings, and fewer complaints. For property owners who want to maintain a strong rental reputation and reduce vacancy, learning how to clean for an Airbnb stay is key to high reviews and even repeat stays. Follow these steps to ensure every guest walks into a clean, welcoming space:
Step 1: Strip the bedding and Towels
Start in the bedrooms and bathrooms by removing all bedding. Place the sheets, pillowcases, duvet covers, and towels in your laundry basket. Even if they appear clean, always wash them between guests. This includes mattress protectors and bath mats.
Step 2: Load the Laundry
Begin the first laundry load right away, as it will likely take the longest. If you have multiple sets of bedding, rotate them to speed up the process. Use a fresh-scented detergent that’s free from harsh chemicals. While the laundry runs, move on to the rest of your cleaning.
Step 3: Clean the Kitchen
Wipe down the countertops, cabinet handles, backsplash, and any small appliances. Be sure to clean the sink, faucet, and inside of the microwave. Check the fridge and freezer for leftover food and remove anything left behind. When cleaning an Airbnb turnover, remember to wipe down the outside of the fridge, dishwasher, and oven so they are polished and free of smudges or fingerprints. Don’t forget to empty the trash and recycling and replace the liners.
Step 4: Disinfect Bathrooms
Spray all surfaces, including the toilet, shower or tub, sink, and countertops, with your chosen cleaner and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping. Pay extra attention to high-touch areas like the toilet handle, faucet knobs, and light switches. Polish the mirror until it’s streak-free and make sure there’s plenty of toilet paper, hand soap, and clean towels available.
Step 5: Dust and Wipe Surfaces
In all living areas and bedrooms, dust every accessible surface, including shelves, picture frames, and ceiling fans. Wipe down tabletops, nightstands, and dresser tops. Check for any water rings or smudges left behind by guests. Make sure the remote controls, lamps, and window sills are clean, too.
Step 6: Vacuum and Mop Floors
Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture thoroughly. If your Airbnb has hard floors, mop them with a mild, all-natural cleaner to maintain a fresh feel without any sticky residue. Don’t forget the entryway and hallways, as dirt can accumulate quickly in these high-traffic zones.
Step 7: Restock Essentials
Restock toilet paper, paper towels, tissues, hand soap, dish soap, and trash bags to ensure your newly cleaned Airbnb is ready for the next guests. If you provide extras like coffee, tea, or snacks, replenish them at this time as well. Also, replace any missing items from the guest checklist.
Step 8: Final Touches
Neatly replace the clean linens on all beds. Fold towels and place them where guests can easily find them. Walk through the space one last time to spot anything out of place or areas that might have been missed. A quick refresh of pillows or a light spritz of linen spray can leave a lasting impression.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Airbnb’s
Even experienced hosts can overlook key areas during turnovers. A quick walkthrough might make everything seem in order, but guests experience the space differently—they’re not just passing through, they’re living in it. They close the bathroom door and notice what’s behind it, or they may drop something under the bed, and see the room from the floor as they reach for it. These moments reveal dust, missed trash, or forgotten items that a surface-level inspection can miss. Areas under beds and furniture, behind doors, inside drawers, and in closets should never be skipped—because chances are, your guests will notice what you didn’t.
That’s why many hosts turn to professional cleaning services for their Airbnb turnovers. Professional cleaners understand what guests expect, and they’re trained to clean according to Airbnb standards while respecting the unique needs of your property. A service experienced in vacation rental cleaning can help ensure your space is always guest-ready, even when your schedule is packed.
Fresh, Clean, and Guest-Ready: Trust Sage Cleaners for Your Airbnb Turnovers
Sage Cleaners offers reliable, all-natural cleaning services tailored for short-term rentals in Salt Lake, Utah, and surrounding areas. Our team follows a thorough checklist, focusing on proper cleanliness, not just surface tidying, while accommodating your unique needs.
With easy online inquiries, flat-rate pricing, and service across Utah, Salt Lake, Davis, and Weber Counties, we make Airbnb turnovers simple and stress-free. Contact us today to give your guests the fresh, clean experience that only professional Airbnb cleaners can provide.