The Ultimate AirBNB Cleaning Checklist: A Comprehensive Host’s Guide
Hosting guests on Airbnb comes with the responsibility to meet—and often exceed—cleanliness expectations. Whether you’re a first-time host or a seasoned property manager in Chicago, following a proper AirBNB Cleaning Checklist is essential for positive reviews, smooth turnovers, and happy guests. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step checklist developed from professional standards, plus practical advice to help you organize your workflow, maximize efficiency, and ensure your rental shines after every stay.
Understanding AirBNB Cleaning Standards for Hosts
To maintain your reputation and comply with guest expectations, it’s vital to grasp the current AirBNB cleaning standards. Platforms like Airbnb and VRBO expect cleanliness to prevent health hazards and to promote guest comfort. For example, VRBO’s official vacation rental cleaning standards offer universal guidance on what guests expect. These standards outline which spaces must be sanitized, how often items like linens should be replaced, and steps to limit germs and allergens.
- Follow local protocols and CDC guidance: In locations like Chicago, referencing CDC prevention guidance is especially important for hygiene and safety.
- Always update your checklist: Health recommendations evolve, and keeping your approach up-to-date is essential for compliance and safety.
- List the exact cleaning and disinfecting products: Use professional products appropriate for different materials and surfaces.
Essential Supplies for a Thorough AirBNB Clean
Preparation is key to efficient turnovers. Before you start, assemble all necessary supplies in a portable caddy. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Multi-surface disinfectant and cleaners
- Glass and mirror spray
- Disposable gloves and microfiber cloths
- Trash bags and extra liners
- Mop, broom, and vacuum with HEPA filter
- Bathroom and toilet cleaners
- Paper towels and cleaning sponges
- Laundry detergent and fabric sanitizer
- Replacement toiletries and amenity kits
Tip: For best results, rotate stock so all supplies are fresh and regularly replaced—don’t forget batteries, light bulbs, and HVAC filters.
Structured AirBNB Cleaning Checklist: Room-by-Room Breakdown
Professional teams, like our staff at Quick Cleaning, follow an itemized approach. This checklist can be adapted for use by individuals or teams:
| Area | Tasks | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Entryway & Hallways | Clean door handles, wipe switches, sweep/mop floors, check for clutter | Every turnover |
| Kitchen | Sanitize counters, sink, appliances (in & out), replace towels, empty and disinfect trash/bin area, check dishware, sweep/mop | Every turnover |
| Living Room | Dust surfaces & décor, vacuum/sweep floors, wipe remotes & switches, check for stains/spots | Every turnover |
| Bedrooms | Change bedding, vacuum/sweep floors, sanitize bedside tables, wipe light switches | Every turnover |
| Bathrooms | Disinfect sink, shower/tub, toilet, replace towels/toiletries, polish mirrors, mop floor | Every turnover |
| Outdoor Spaces | Sweep, clean furniture, empty trash, check for debris or hazards | As needed |
Step-by-Step System for Efficient Turnovers
- Inspect: Do a walkthrough first to spot repairs, missing items, or excessive messes.
- Remove: Collect and bag trash, dirty linens, and used towels from each room.
- Prepare: Restock amenities, set out fresh linens and basic toiletries, and check that kitchenware is complete.
- Clean: Tackle one room at a time in a top-down process—start with dusting, then surfaces, then floors.
- Disinfect: Pay extra attention to high-touch points like light switches, doorknobs, remote controls, and faucets.
- Final Walkthrough: Evaluate the space as a guest would—adjust for presentation, scents, and lighting.
Maintaining a sequence keeps cleaning organized and limits cross-contamination.
Prioritizing High-Touch and Hygiene-Sensitive Areas
Properties in bustling cities like Chicago see frequent guest turnover, increasing exposure to germs. Prioritize:
- Light switches, handles, remote controls, thermostats
- Bathroom faucet and toilet levers
- Appliance touchpads, drawer pulls, kitchen surfaces
- Shared electronics and communal items
Disinfect these using EPA-approved products and fresh cloths for each surface group. You can reference authoritative safety guidelines from the CDC for updated recommendations.
Managing Laundry and Linens: Best Practices for Turnovers
Fresh, stain-free linens are a top priority for guests. Professional cleaning standards require:
- All bed linens, comforters, pillowcases, and throw covers laundered after each departure
- Separate towels and bathmats washed at high temperature
- Extra linen sets available onsite for emergencies
- Inspection for wear and stains before resetting beds
If your property offers longer stays, schedule a mid-stay linen refresh. For more tips, visit our AirBNB laundry and turnover tips internal guide.
Stocking Essentials: Guest Amenities & Supply Checklist
Stocking the right supplies not only boosts guest comfort but also maximizes reviews. Here’s a sample amenity list, widely appreciated by Chicago guests:
- Individually wrapped soap/shampoo, spare toothbrushes
- Coffee/tea, bottled water, and small snacks (if permitted by platform policy)
- Paper towels and extra toilet paper
- First aid kit and basic safety supplies
- Dish soap, sponge, and kitchen towels
- Hand sanitizer
Pro Tip: Keep a locked closet for surplus items and rotate consumables every quarter for freshness and inventory accuracy.
Dealing with Tough Messes and Stains
Incidents happen—red wine spills, pet accidents, or burned-on kitchen grime. For professional results:
- Treat carpet and upholstery stains fast using the right products for the material
- Degrease kitchen appliances with non-abrasive cleaners
- Bathe or replace pillows and comforters if soiled
For issues beyond repair, document damage for your claims process and update your inventory list.
Quality Control: Final Walkthrough and Staging Before Guests Arrive
A property’s first impression sets the stage for reviews. Before each check-in:
- Stage the beds with crisp linens and neatly folded towels
- Ensure all surfaces, mirrors, and windows are streak-free
- Check thermostat settings and air out the space for freshness
- Leave informational cards or guides on Wi-Fi and appliances
- Do one last pass for missed spots and personal items
This is also when hosts confirm compliance with Airbnb’s enhanced cleaning protocols (including extra disinfection where required).
Frequency Guide: When to Deep Clean Your Airbnb
Even with regular turnover cleaning, deep cleans are necessary for longevity. Schedule as follows:
- Every 3–6 months: Deep clean carpets, upholstery, drapes, and behind furniture
- Seasonally: Wash windows, sanitize HVAC vents, steam clean bathrooms/kitchens
- Annually: Full appliance maintenance, wall washing, professional pest check
To dive deeper, read our dedicated guide on Airbnb cleaning frequency.
Special Situations: Pet-Friendly, Allergies, and Long-Term Rentals
Your checklist needs additional steps for pets or allergy-prone guests:
- Use HEPA-filter vacuums for pet hair and dander
- Double-wash linens where pets are allowed
- Use allergen-blocking pillow and mattress covers
- Include a pet check/post-clean checklist for safety and odors
For longer stays, schedule periodic cleans—these help maintain standards and discover developing issues.
What to Document and Photograph for Peace of Mind
Good record keeping protects both guests and hosts. Document:
- Condition of the property after each turnover—photograph key areas
- Any damage, missing items, or unusual dirt/grime
- Dates/times cleaning was completed
- Receipts for professional services if used
Thorough documentation assists with platform resolution processes and supports your reputation.
Do-It-Yourself vs. Professional Airbnb Cleaning: Pros & Cons
- DIY: Greater control, possible cost savings, but time-consuming and labor-intensive. Risk of oversight or not meeting updated standards.
- Professional Help: Consistent quality and trained staff, especially for busy hosts or larger property managers. Efficient turnaround and proper insurance for peace of mind. See our in-depth comparison of DIY vs. hiring a professional service.
For Chicago-area hosts, professional companies like Quick Cleaning are familiar with local cleaning expectations and regulations, offering flexible scheduling for recurring, deep, or last-minute jobs.
Safety Requirements and Guest Health in AirBNB Cleaning
Guest safety is paramount. Always maintain:
- Proper ventilation during and after cleaning
- Labeled, safely stored cleaning products
- No residue from harsh chemicals on surfaces
- Hand sanitizers and disinfectant wipes available for guests
Comply with guidelines like those from the CDC and check out our resource on cleaning and safety for Airbnb experiences.
Preparing Your Property for Same-Day Turnovers or High Volume
If you host back-to-back stays, efficiency is crucial. Tips for rapid turnovers:
- Keep a duplicate set of linens and towels ready
- Use a collaborative checklist app for cleaning crews
- Set a timer per room to maintain pace
- Double-check forgotten areas (under beds, behind doors)
Consider automating notifications or partnering with reliable cleaning providers to minimize downtime. For automation, review our automation guide for Airbnb turnovers.
What to Include in Your Own Tailored AirBNB Cleaning Checklist
No two properties are identical. Tailor your checklist to match:
- Property size and unique amenities (fireplace, hot tub, gym equipment)
- Seasonal factors—Chicago winters require entryway and sidewalk care
- Special guest requests or accessibility features
Update your process as you receive feedback, and maintain flexibility to adapt to city changes or evolving platform requirements.
FAQ: AirBNB Cleaning Checklist & Hosting Cleanliness
- What should be included in an AirBNB cleaning checklist?
A room-by-room guide covering surfaces, high-touch points, linens, kitchen, bathrooms, and amenities. Disinfecting and documentation are also important. - How often should I deep clean my rental?
Plan for a deep clean every 3–6 months, with a complete sanitation annually. - What are the biggest hygiene mistakes Airbnb hosts make?
Missing high-touch points, reusing linens, or skipping behind/under furniture. - Do guests expect hotels’ level of cleanliness?
Yes—guests expect a standard at least as high as hotels. Reviews reflect this standard. - What products work best for disinfecting?
Use professional-grade, EPA-approved cleaners tailored to various materials and non-toxic where possible. - How can I limit turnover time for last-minute bookings?
Have backup linens, a supply caddy, and a reliable cleaning partner like Quick Cleaning for rush requests. - Who pays for property damage caused by guests?
Hosts should document damage; recovery often goes through the platform’s resolution center. - How can I make my checklist easier for cleaners?
Use an itemized, room-specific list and leave space for notes. Digital copies are easier to update. - What if my guest reports a cleanliness issue?
Respond promptly, review your checklist, and offer solutions like a complimentary re-clean or partial refund, depending on circumstance. - Should I hire a professional service for every turnover?
Not always, but professional services can help maintain high standards and streamline operations, especially for multiple or luxury listings.
Wrap-Up: Next Steps for Successful Airbnb Cleaning
A consistent, detailed AirBNB Cleaning Checklist can transform your hosting business, improve guest satisfaction, and simplify turnovers. By adapting professional-level routines—whether you clean yourself or use a company like Quick Cleaning—you reduce stress and increase your chance of five-star reviews. For more specialized needs, such as deep cleaning or move-out jobs, consider our deep cleaning options or move-out cleaning services. Ready to streamline your turnovers? Explore our Airbnb cleaning services overview for the next steps.
About Quick Cleaning
Quick Cleaning specializes in residential and commercial cleaning with a focus on recurring house cleaning, deep cleaning, move out cleaning, office cleaning, and special facility projects. Serving homeowners, landlords, Airbnb hosts, and business owners across Chicago, Illinois and nearby areas, our trained staff follow detailed checklists and the highest quality standards to ensure every space is spotless. We use certified cleaning products and equipment, and pride ourselves on transparent communication, flexible scheduling, and a strong focus on long-term client relationships. Choose Quick Cleaning for your next cleaning campaign and experience the difference professional care makes.
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