A clean home is a happy home, even if it’s only temporary. Your Airbnb listing serves as a temporary home for your guests. When they walk through the door, make them feel the need to come back. One of the best ways to ensure a repeat guest or referral is to operate a clean listing. Whether you are a DIY Master and handling the cleaning tasks yourself or outsourcing the deed – do it right. We have created the ultimate 2021 AirBnB house cleaning checklist.

Access the home: Remove all trash and left-behind items of previous guests

The very first thing to do following the completion of a stay is to access the entire house. Take a few minutes and walk the home, inspecting each room. It doesn’t hurt to take along a pen and pad or take notes on your phone. If you see something that is going to need a repair of some sort, make a note. Identifying damage beforehand is necessary for any damages needing to be billed and repaired.

While some may prefer to focus on one room at a time, removing all large and obvious trash during your walkthrough will carve your cleaning time. It also allows an easier maneuver when cleaning.

Start the laundry: This can be done while simultaneously cleaning.

Before starting the actual wipe-down and sanitizing of your Airbnb, remove all linen and towels. If they are a color other than white, be sure to separate the laundry accordingly. Color separation is necessary to avoid any color bleeding or fading.

Now, your space is free of trash, all damages, if any, have been noted, and the laundry is going – let’s clean.

Clean the kitchen

Two spaces will make or break your listing. The kitchen is one of them. Follow this list to get a spot-free kitchen.

• Clear the refrigerator of any items from the previous guest. 
• Wipe and sanitize the fridge.
• Wash and dry the dishes. Clear the dishwasher as well. Place the items neatly in the cabinets.
• Thoroughly wipe the stove and oven of any residue.
• Clear the countertops, returning any condiments or other items to their rightful place.
• Wipe countertops, appliances, and sink (hardware included).
• Sweep and mop the floor
• Empty the trash.

Clean the bathroom

The bathroom is the second space. A clean bathroom means comfort.

• Clean the mirrors
• Wipe and sanitize the sinks
• Properly clean the toilets. No stains, no residue! Pro tip (When done cleaning, pour a little fragranced cleaner in the toilet bowl for a lingering clean scent.)
• Clean the shower and tubs. If the shower has glass or tiled enclosures, scrub away soap residue and scum.
• Sweep and mop the floor
• Empty the trash.

Dusting, Tidying, Reset and Restock

A clean home gives a clean feeling. Your guests will appreciate the sense of cleanliness from the moment they walk through the door.

• Dust the common areas, including nightstands, entertainment center, and other end tables.
• Double-check the bulbs to ensure all are adequately lit. 
• Remove removable cushions to check for any remaining items, food, or other debris. Fluff the cushions and pillows. (Bonus tip, a fabric freshening mist will give the furniture a lasting pleasant smell.)
• Straighten any ornamental decor (table magazines/books, flowers, centerpieces)
• Restock all fresh items (milk, condiments, etc.) and paper and hygiene products (paper towel, shampoo, tissue, etc.)

The final thing to remember is to conduct a walkthrough to ensure you’ve taken care of each space entirely.

Keep in mind that the level of cleanliness can vary based on the home’s condition after the previous stay. It is also essential to conduct a deep cleaning of your Airbnb at least once a month. A deep cleaning will be the same as your typical cleaning except on a more intense level with greater detail.

During your scheduled deep cleans, be sure to inspect for cobwebs, steam clean the carpet, and check the wear of your linens and towels for replacements.

Pro Tip: Small things to keep in mind that can significantly impact your guest are in-home gifts such as a small basket of goodies. Great items to consider are wine and desserts or fresh fruits. If you prefer to avoid all food and beverage items, consider fresh flowers.

Read More: Red Flags to look for when renting on Airbnb (No review guests)