What Does Airbnb Cleaning Include?
If you manage a short-term rental property, one of the most important factors in maintaining consistent bookings and five-star reviews is cleanliness. Guests expect hotel-level standards every time they walk through the door, and even small oversights can lead to negative reviews and lost revenue. This is why understanding what Airbnb cleaning includes is essential for hosts, property managers, and investors alike.
Airbnb cleaning is more than a standard residential cleaning. It is a detailed, systematic process designed to reset a property between guests, ensuring it is spotless, fully restocked, and ready for immediate occupancy. In this guide, we will break down exactly what Airbnb cleaning includes, why it matters, and how professional services help maximize your rental success.
Why Airbnb Cleaning Standards Are Different
Unlike traditional home cleaning, Airbnb or vacation rental cleaning is driven by turnover speed and guest expectations. A property may be cleaned dozens of times per month, often with only a few hours between check-out and check-in.
Because of this fast turnaround, Airbnb cleaning focuses on three key goals:
Immaculate presentation
Sanitization and hygiene compliance
Consistency across every guest stay
Guests are not just comparing your property to other homes—they are comparing it to hotels. That means expectations are significantly higher, and even minor details matter.
What Does Airbnb Cleaning Include?
Airbnb cleaning is a full turnover service that resets the entire property. Below is a breakdown of the core tasks included in a professional Airbnb cleaning service.
1. Full Property Inspection
Before cleaning begins, most professionals perform a quick walkthrough to identify:
Guest damage
Missing items
Maintenance issues
Excessive mess or unusual conditions
This step ensures nothing is overlooked and helps hosts stay ahead of repair needs.
2. Bedroom Reset and Linen Service
Bedrooms must feel fresh, clean, and hotel-ready. This includes:
Removing used linens
Washing or replacing sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers
Making beds neatly and uniformly
Dusting all surfaces, including nightstands and headboards
Vacuuming carpets or mopping floors
Checking under beds for forgotten items
Clean, crisp bedding is one of the most noticeable factors for guests, and it heavily influences reviews.
3. Bathroom Sanitization
Bathrooms are one of the most scrutinized areas in any rental. Airbnb cleaning includes deep sanitization such as:
Scrubbing toilets inside and out
Disinfecting sinks and countertops
Cleaning showers, tubs, and glass doors
Polishing mirrors and fixtures
Restocking toilet paper, soap, and toiletries
Emptying trash bins and replacing liners
Mopping floors with disinfectant solutions
A spotless bathroom builds trust instantly with guests.
4. Kitchen Deep Cleaning
The kitchen must be fully reset, even if guests did not cook. Tasks include:
Cleaning and disinfecting countertops
Wiping down cabinet fronts and handles
Cleaning inside and outside of microwave, oven, and refrigerator (as needed)
Washing or loading dishwashers
Cleaning sinks and faucets
Sanitizing small appliances like coffee makers or toasters
Restocking essentials (paper towels, dish soap, sponges)
A clean kitchen signals a well-managed property.
5. Living Room and Common Areas
These areas create the first impression when guests walk in. Cleaning typically includes:
Dusting furniture, shelves, and décor
Vacuuming sofas and rugs
Wiping down tables and remotes
Fluffing pillows and arranging seating
Cleaning glass doors and windows
Ensuring entertainment systems are organized and functional
Everything should look staged and inviting.
6. Floor Care Throughout the Property
Floors experience the most wear between guests. Airbnb cleaning includes:
Vacuuming all carpeted areas
Sweeping and mopping hard floors
Spot-cleaning stains when possible
Ensuring no sand, dirt, or debris remains
In vacation-heavy areas, this step is especially important due to foot traffic from beaches and outdoor activities.
7. Trash Removal and Odor Control
Guests expect a fresh-smelling space. Cleaning services include:
Emptying all trash bins in every room
Replacing liners
Removing food waste from kitchen areas
Checking for hidden trash under beds or furniture
Using deodorizing products if needed
Odor control is critical for maintaining positive guest impressions.
8. Restocking Supplies and Amenities
One of the most important parts of Airbnb cleaning is preparing the property for the next guest. This includes restocking:
Toilet paper and paper towels
Soap, shampoo, and conditioner (if provided)
Coffee, tea, or welcome kits
Trash bags
Dishwashing supplies
Towels and linens
Well-stocked rentals often receive better reviews and repeat bookings.
9. Final Inspection and Staging
Before the cleaning is complete, a final walkthrough ensures:
Everything is in its place
Beds are properly made
Lights, remotes, and appliances are working
No cleaning supplies are left behind
The home looks photo-ready
Some cleaners also stage the property to enhance visual appeal, especially for listings with professional photos.
Optional Add-On Services in Airbnb Cleaning
Depending on the service provider, Airbnb cleaning may also include:
Laundry Management
Washing, drying, folding, and restocking linens between guests.
Restocking Concierge Services
Managing guest welcome baskets or luxury amenity kits.
Deep Cleaning Services
Periodic deep cleans that include baseboards, vents, behind furniture, and more.
Maintenance Reporting
Notifying hosts of repairs needed such as broken fixtures or appliance issues.
How Often Should Airbnb Cleaning Be Done?
Airbnb cleaning is typically required:
After every guest checkout
Before every new check-in
During long-term stays (weekly or bi-weekly refreshes)
Consistency is key. Even one missed cleaning can lead to negative reviews or refund requests.
Why Professional Airbnb Cleaning Matters
While some hosts attempt to manage cleaning themselves, professional Airbnb cleaning services offer major advantages:
Faster turnovers between guests
Higher guest satisfaction ratings
Reduced stress for property owners
Better attention to detail
Fewer maintenance surprises
Professional cleaners understand the urgency and precision required for short-term rental success.
The Impact on Reviews and Revenue
Cleanliness is one of the top-rated categories on Airbnb. A consistently clean property can lead to:
Higher occupancy rates
Better nightly pricing
Increased Superhost eligibility
More repeat guests
Improved search ranking on listing platforms
In contrast, poor cleaning standards can quickly damage your reputation and reduce bookings.
Choosing the Right Airbnb Cleaning Service
When selecting a cleaning service for your short-term rental, look for:
Experience with vacation rentals or Airbnb turnovers
Fast response times
Consistent staff or teams
Supply restocking options
Clear communication and reporting
Flexible scheduling for same-day turnovers
Reliability is just as important as cleaning quality.
How Wild Broom Cleaning Can Help
Managing a short-term rental can be demanding, especially with back-to-back bookings and high guest expectations. That’s where Wild Broom Cleaning comes in. We specialize in Airbnb and vacation rental cleaning, helping hosts maintain spotless, guest-ready properties with reliable turnover service and attention to detail.
Final Thoughts: What Does Airbnb Cleaning Include?
Airbnb cleaning includes a complete reset of the property—covering bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, living spaces, floors, supplies, and final staging. It is a detailed, fast-paced service designed to ensure every guest walks into a clean, welcoming, and fully prepared home.
For hosts who want consistent five-star reviews and higher occupancy rates, professional Airbnb cleaning is not optional—it is essential.