The Ultimate Guide to Airbnb Cleaning: Impress Your Guests Every Time

By: John Doe | May 19, 2025

Whether you’re a new host or a seasoned pro, one thing is certain: cleanliness can make or break your Airbnb reviews. Guests expect a spotless, hotel-like experience — and with high standards come high expectations. That’s why having a reliable Airbnb cleaning routine is essential.

Here’s everything you need to know about Airbnb cleaning, from why it matters to how to streamline your cleaning process for five-star reviews every time.

Why Airbnb Cleaning Is So Important

Cleanliness directly affects:

  • Guest satisfaction and reviews

  • Your listing rating

  • Booking frequency

  • Health and safety (especially post-pandemic)

Even the most beautifully styled home can fall flat if it’s not clean. A single hair in the shower or crumbs on the counter can lead to bad reviews and lost bookings.

What to Include in Your Airbnb Cleaning Checklist

A thorough cleaning should go beyond just surface tidying. Here’s a standard checklist:

General Areas

  • Dust all surfaces, furniture, and décor

  • Vacuum and mop floors

  • Empty trash bins and replace liners

  • Check and replace lightbulbs if needed

Living Room

  • Wipe down tables and remote controls

  • Fluff and arrange pillows/cushions

  • Clean under furniture

Kitchen

  • Clean all appliances (microwave, oven, fridge, etc.)

  • Disinfect countertops and sink

  • Empty dishwasher or wash dishes

  • Refill coffee/tea stations if offered

Bedrooms

  • Change and launder bed linens

  • Dust bedside tables and lamps

  • Check under the bed for forgotten items

Bathrooms

  • Scrub toilet, shower, tub, and sink

  • Replace used towels with fresh ones

  • Restock toilet paper, toiletries, and hand soap

  • Empty bathroom trash

Outdoor Areas (if applicable)

  • Sweep patio/balcony

  • Wipe down outdoor furniture

  • Remove any litter or debris

Pro Tips for Airbnb Cleaning Success

  1. Create a Cleaning Schedule: Whether you clean yourself or hire help, have a system in place to ensure nothing is missed.

  2. Use Hotel-Quality Linens and Supplies: Crisp, clean sheets and fluffy white towels give a luxury feel and are easier to bleach clean.

  3. Keep a Backup Supply Closet: Store extra paper products, cleaning supplies, and linens to handle quick turnovers.

  4. Do a Final Walkthrough: Before each guest arrives, walk through the property with fresh eyes and check for details like smudges on mirrors, streaks on glass, and odors.

  5. Consider Hiring a Professional Cleaner: Especially if your Airbnb is busy or you’re managing multiple properties, a trusted cleaner can be a lifesaver.

Automating the Process

Use tools like:

  • TurnoverBnB or Properly: Apps that schedule cleanings and send task lists to cleaners.

  • Smart locks and cameras (only in common areas and with disclosure): To monitor guest check-out so cleaning can begin immediately.

Final Thoughts

In the world of short-term rentals, cleanliness is non-negotiable. Investing time (or money) into a consistent and thorough Airbnb cleaning process pays off through higher ratings, repeat bookings, and glowing reviews. Whether you clean yourself or hire help, keeping your Airbnb spotless is one of the best ways to set your listing apart and keep guests coming back.

Have tips of your own? Share your Airbnb cleaning secrets in the comments below!