When you become an Airbnb host, you quickly realize that managing your property is much more than just handing over keys or a code and providing a nice accomodation. The number one factor that impacts your reviews (and thus your success) is cleanliness.
If you’re renting a small studio or a guest bedroom, you can probably handle the cleaning job. But if your property is a bigger apartment or a house, and you get frequent back-to-back bookings, it’s a much bigger job. When I was new at hosting, I made it a habit to agree to early check-in requests. You can imagine the panicky cleaning state I was in when my guests checked out at 10AM and the next guests were due to arrive at 1PM.
Fast forward through lots of trial, error, and a bit of elbow grease, I figured out a system that works. Whether you’re considering hiring your first cleaner or looking to optimize your cleaning process, here are some insights and practical tips to bring your A-game when it comes to the cleanliness of your Airbnb.
Understanding Your Cleaning Needs
First off, your understanding of clean is not my understanding of clean. When guests mention an issue with cleanliness, it’s often about a different cleanliness standard than yours. So the first lesson here is: clean it better than what you think is clean.
Then, every property is different. The cleaning needs vary dramatically depending on whether you’re renting out a cozy studio or a big house with a pool.
I realized that my quaint two-bedroom beachfront condo needed more than me running from room to room with a vacuum cleaner and a mop. I needed a system. So I documented every single room/area of the house, what needed to be done in each room, and how I could make this process efficient.
Sounds so simple, but starting a laundry right when you come in, and batching tasks like vacuuming or mopping saves time down the road. Doing all of this yourself a few times will help you get the most our of your paid cleaners.
Where to find professional cleaners
Where do you start? Platforms like Handy or TaskRabbit can be useful for finding good cleaners who are already vetted. I personally found my rockstar cleaner, Sandra, in a local Facebook group.
A good referral can do the trick, too. Networking with other hosts can lead you to the best cleaners who understand the specific needs of Airbnb properties. And always, always read the reviews. Just like you wouldn’t order a product online without checking the ratings, don’t hire without reading the reviews.
Yes, you need to vet potential cleaners
Yes, I mean schedule an actual interview with the cleaner so you can get an idea oh who’d trust with this task. Vetting is crucial — a cleaner’s background in vacation rentals can be a huge plus, as they’ll be familiar with the quick turnarounds and high standards required.
Always check references—any reputable cleaner will expect this and be prepared. When I interview potential cleaners now, I focus on their problem-solving skills and reliability, asking questions like, “What would you do if you noticed something was broken or missing?”
Setting clear expectations and agreements
Having clear, written agreements with your cleaners will save you lots of headaches down the road. Specify everything from cleaning standards to which supplies they should use (because one time someone used bleach on my antique wood table…ouch).
Use a checklist tailored to your property to ensure nothing is overlooked. Remember when I told you to clean your property and create a system? That’s where the checklist will come from. It’s a simple tool, but it makes a huge difference in maintaining consistent standards. Also, ensure your payment terms are clear and fair. I like to treat my cleaners well, they get a bonus once a year and I check in with them frequently to ask if they have any feedback.
Tools and supplies for efficient cleaning
Providing your cleaners with the right tools and supplies is essential for efficiency. Stock up on quality cleaning products that are eco-friendly— you’re doing your part in caring for our planet and guests love that. And smart storage solutions for your supplies can prevent any mix-ups or shortages.
I’ve also started using management apps to keep track of inventory and cleaning schedules. It sounds a bit over the top, but it helps keep everything running smoothly.
Turn your clean team into a dream team
I like to have regular check-ins to address any concerns before they become problems. I’ve set up a WhatsApp group for my team—it’s perfect for quick updates and feedback.
And remember, feedback goes both ways. Encourage your team to share their insights or suggestions. They’re on the front lines and might notice things you miss.
Your takeaway
Cleanliness can make or break your Airbnb. Before you hire professional cleaners, make sure you clean the place yourself to understand what needs to be done. Create a cleaning checklist with that experience, and provide your professional cleaners with an efficient process. Make sure you treat them fairly and communicate with them often.
