Ultimate Cleaning Checklist for Airbnb Cleaners

Hey hosts! Keeping your Airbnb squeaky clean isn't just about impressing guests—it's the secret to raking in those rave reviews! Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, having a killer cleaning checklist is your ticket to ensuring guest satisfaction and those coveted five-star ratings.

Now, depending on how close you are to your rental, you might want to consider hiring cleaning pros. If, like me, you're not exactly next door to your property (mine's a solid hour and a half away), having a reliable crew on standby is critical because they can not only clean between turnovers, but also act as your eyes and ears on your property when you’re not there. 

But teaching a crew to leave your property in a fashion that demonstrates they've got a spotless reputation to uphold? That's where the real adventure begins. It took me a bit to coach up my team to clean and set up the rooms the way I would. A checklist like this would have been extra helpful! 


In this post you I will share: 

  • A comprehensive cleaning checklist

  • A free downloadable version that you can share with your cleaning crew

  • Additional Tips

Comprehensive cleaning checklist:

  • Bedrooms:

    • Change and make used beds with fresh linens (I ask guests to leave used beds unmade for clarity, and if anything is stained I ask the cleaning crew to report that back to me) 

    • Dust all surfaces including nightstands, dressers, and shelves

    • Vacuum carpets or rugs; mop hard floors

    • Check under beds for any left items

    • Replace any used towels with fresh ones

  • Bathrooms:

    • Scrub and sanitize toilets, sinks, showers, and tubs

    • Refill soap dispensers and toilet paper rolls (I extra toilet paper under sink just in case)

    • Clean mirrors and any glass surfaces

    • Replace used towels with fresh ones

    • Empty trash bins and replace liners

    • Make sure there are no hairs anywhere (that is a major turn off!)

  • Living Areas:

    • Dust all surfaces including furniture, shelves, and electronics

    • If the couches appear to have any lint or hair, lint roll them

    • Vacuum carpets and rugs; mop hard floors

    • Clean any decorative items or artwork

    • Check remote controls and replace batteries if necessary

    • Empty trash bins and replace liners

  • Kitchen:

    • Remove any clean dishes from the dishwasher and put them away (I ask that guests load dirty dishes prior to check out)

    • Clean and sanitize countertops and backsplash

    • Wipe down exterior of cabinets and appliances

    • Clean inside microwave and toaster oven

    • Remove any left food in refrigerator 

    • Refill dish soap, and replace sponge if dirty

    • Empty trash bins and replace liners (if it is trash/recycling day or the day before take the bins to the road) 

  • General:

    • Check for any maintenance issues (e.g., burnt-out light bulbs, leaky faucets, missing items)

    • Ensure all amenities are stocked (e.g., coffee, tea, paper towels, toilet paper, toiletries).

Additional Tips: 

  • Arrival and Departure Times: Guest check-in is 3pm and check-out is 11am. Cleaning should occur during that time window.

  • Attention to Detail: Pay special attention to high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls.

  • Communication: Always communicate with the host or property manager about any issues or out of stock items. 

With this super-detailed cleaning checklist, you'll have your place sparkling like a five-star hotel, guaranteed to wow every guest who walks through the door.

Remember, you're creating an experience. And your dedication to cleanliness will definitely pay off in happy guests and high ratings!



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