Blog

The Ultimate Airbnb Cleaning Checklist for hosts

Maintaining a clean and welcoming Airbnb is essential for guest satisfaction and long-term success. Cleanliness consistently ranks among the top factors influencing guest reviews and booking decisions. A professional and repeatable cleaning checklist ensures consistency, prevents oversight, and supports a smooth turnover between stays.

This guide provides a comprehensive Airbnb cleaning checklist tailored for hosts managing one or multiple properties. It helps streamline the cleaning process, reduce guest complaints, and maintain a high hospitality standard.

Why Airbnb Hosts Need a Cleaning Checklist

A detailed checklist allows hosts to deliver consistent cleaning across stays, even when different cleaners are involved. It supports high guest ratings, increases chances of earning Superhost status, and prevents the small issues that turn into negative reviews.

Guests expect a hotel-like experience with personal touches. A clearly defined cleaning process helps hosts meet these expectations. Whether cleaning is done in-house or through a cleaning service, a checklist reduces communication gaps and ensures no task is missed.

Pre-Cleaning Preparation

Before starting, hosts should prepare for a smooth turnover by ensuring:

Cleaners have access to keys or smart locks
Cleaning supplies are stocked and accessible
A time buffer is available between check-out and check-in
All maintenance or repair issues are reported and resolved

Doing a quick inspection before cleaning begins can help identify damages, missing items, or unexpected messes that need attention.

Room-by-Room Airbnb Cleaning Checklist

Entire Property

Air out the space by opening windows if possible
Dust and wipe down all surfaces
Disinfect high-touch points like light switches, remotes, and doorknobs
Vacuum or mop all floors
Empty trash bins and replace liners
Look for signs of damage or missing items
Confirm the thermostat is set to a guest-friendly temperature

Bedrooms

Strip used bed linens and replace with fresh, clean sets
Disinfect bedside tables, drawer handles, lamp switches
Fluff pillows and neatly arrange bedding
Vacuum under beds and furniture
Ensure extra blankets or pillows are clean and accessible
Confirm closet space is tidy and hangers are in place

Bathrooms

Scrub and disinfect sink, toilet, shower, and tub
Clean mirrors and chrome fixtures
Wipe down bathroom walls and shelves
Replace used towels with fresh sets
Restock essentials: toilet paper, tissues, hand soap, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
Ensure bath mats are clean and dry
Empty trash and sanitize bin surfaces

Kitchen

Wash and store all dishes, glassware, and utensils
Wipe down countertops, cabinets, and backsplash
Disinfect high-touch appliances: refrigerator handle, microwave, stovetop, coffee maker, etc.
Remove expired items from the fridge
Sweep and mop floors
Refill coffee, tea, sugar, salt, or other commonly provided items
Check and restock cleaning supplies if provided to guests

Living Room

Dust and sanitize surfaces, including tables, electronics, and shelves
Vacuum sofa and cushions, checking for lost items
Straighten cushions and furniture
Wipe the TV remote and other electronic devices
Arrange any books, décor, or games neatly
Check for cobwebs or dust in corners and ceiling fans

Outdoor Spaces (If Applicable)

Sweep patio or balcony
Clean outdoor furniture and inspect for damage
Empty ashtrays or outdoor trash bins
Ensure any lighting works properly
Remove any trash, leaves, or debris

Final Touches That Make a Difference

Guests appreciate thoughtful presentation and a fresh environment. These last steps help complete the experience:

Use a mild air freshener or let in fresh air for natural ventilation
Place welcome cards or small gifts (like snacks or local maps) neatly
Turn on soft lighting for an inviting ambiance
Take photos for your records in case of disputes
Double-check that all doors and windows are locked

Tools and Systems to Simplify Cleaning

Many successful Airbnb hosts use tools to automate and organize the cleaning process:

Scheduling tools: Property management software can automate cleaner schedules after each check-out
Digital checklists: Shared documents or apps help track progress in real-time
Photo documentation: Encouraging cleaners to submit before-and-after photos supports accountability

Some property management systems (PMS) also integrate housekeeping coordination and can send reminders automatically. This is especially helpful for hosts managing multiple listings or remote properties.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with good intentions, a few cleaning issues can lead to poor reviews. To protect your reputation:

Avoid skipping high-touch areas like remotes, switches, and handles
Never leave used towels, linens, or partially used toiletries
Don’t assume guests won’t notice crumbs under beds or dust in vents
Resist rushing turnover cleaning without a checklist, even during busy periods

Consistency Is Key

Guests return to listings they trust. A consistent cleaning routine not only improves ratings but also reduces long-term wear on your property. A good checklist protects your investment and your reputation.

Download Your Printable Airbnb Cleaning Checklist

For easy reference, hosts can create a laminated checklist to keep on-site or share it with cleaners digitally. Customizing your list to match your property layout ensures better efficiency and results.