As a seasoned Airbnb host, I’ve learnt that immaculate cleanliness isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s absolutely essential for success in the short-term rental market. With guest expectations higher than ever in 2025, a spotless property directly translates to better reviews, higher ratings, and ultimately, more bookings.
Over the years, I’ve refined my cleaning approach to ensure every guest walks into a pristine space that feels both welcoming and professionally maintained. Today, I’m sharing my complete cleaning checklist that has consistently earned my properties five-star cleanliness ratings.
Why Proper Airbnb Cleaning Matters
Before diving into the checklist, let’s talk about why cleaning your Airbnb properly is non-negotiable:
- Guest expectations are at an all-time high – Post-pandemic cleaning standards haven’t relaxed
- Direct impact on ratings and reviews – Cleanliness is typically the first aspect guests mention
- Higher booking rates – Properties with spotless reputations command better occupancy
- Reduced maintenance costs – Regular thorough cleaning prevents long-term damage
- Host sanity – A systematic approach saves time and reduces stress
Essential Airbnb Cleaning Supplies
Having the right tools makes all the difference when cleaning an Airbnb efficiently:
- Microfibre cloths (colour-coded for different areas)
- Multi-surface disinfectant spray
- Glass cleaner
- Bathroom cleaner with limescale remover
- Toilet cleaner and brush
- Vacuum with upholstery attachments
- Mop and floor cleaner appropriate for your flooring type
- Air freshener (subtle, non-allergenic)
- Laundry detergent and fabric softener
- Magic erasers for marks on walls
- Stain remover for carpets and upholstery
The Room-by-Room Airbnb Cleaning Checklist
General (All Rooms)
- Dust all surfaces from top to bottom
- Wipe down all light switches and doorknobs
- Clean air vents and ceiling fans
- Vacuum or mop all floors
- Wash windows and mirrors
- Check for and remove any cobwebs
- Empty all bins and replace bin liners
- Check for lost items under furniture
- Sanitise remote controls, light switches and door handles
Kitchen
- Deep clean inside microwave, oven and toaster
- Descale and clean kettle and coffee machine
- Wipe down all appliance exteriors
- Clean and organise refrigerator (check expiry dates)
- Sanitise countertops and sink
- Clean inside and outside of cabinets
- Check and replenish essentials (washing up liquid, bin bags, dishwasher tablets)
- Run dishwasher through empty cleaning cycle monthly
- Wipe down dining table and chairs
- Clean inside drawers and organise utensils
Bathroom
- Scrub toilet bowl, seat, and exterior
- Clean shower/bath, removing any soap scum or limescale
- Replace shower curtain if showing signs of mould
- Clean and shine all fixtures
- Wipe down vanity, sink and mirror
- Restock toilet paper (leave 2-3 spare rolls)
- Replenish hand soap and toiletries if provided
- Check and clean drains
- Wash bathroom rugs regularly
- Sanitise hairdryer and any provided appliances
Bedroom
- Change all bedding (including mattress and pillow protectors monthly)
- Vacuum under the bed
- Dust bedside tables, lamps and decor items
- Clean inside wardrobes and drawers
- Check for stains on mattress and treat if necessary
- Rotate mattress quarterly
- Ensure adequate hangers are available
- Test all lamps and alarm clocks
- Vacuum upholstered furniture
- Check behind furniture for lost items
Living Areas
- Vacuum sofas and armchairs (including under cushions)
- Clean TV screen and entertainment equipment
- Organise magazines, books and tourist information
- Dust bookshelves and decor items
- Wash throw pillow covers and blankets
- Check remote controls (batteries working)
- Clean inside drawers and cabinets
- Wipe down coffee table and side tables
- Check lighting fixtures and replace bulbs if needed
Outdoor Areas
- Sweep patios, balconies or decking
- Clean outdoor furniture
- Empty and clean ashtrays if smoking is permitted
- Check garden furniture cushions are clean and dry
- Clean BBQ after each guest if provided
- Check outdoor lighting functions properly
- Tidy any garden areas, removing weeds and debris
- Clean windows from outside quarterly
Turnover Day Efficiency Tips
The changeover between guests is often time-sensitive. Here’s how I optimise the process:
- Start with laundry first – Get sheets and towels washing while handling other tasks
- Open all windows to air out the property while cleaning
- Use a systematic approach – Clean from top to bottom, room by room
- Create a standardised routine that you follow each time
- Use a checklist app to ensure nothing is missed
- Take before/after photos for your records and accountability
- Time yourself to identify areas for efficiency improvement
- Prepare welcome items only after cleaning is complete
Professional Airbnb Cleaning Services: When to Outsource
While many hosts choose to clean themselves, professional cleaning services can be worth considering when:
- You manage multiple properties
- You live far from your rental
- You have back-to-back bookings with tight turnarounds
- You need deep cleaning services periodically
- Your time is better spent on other aspects of hosting
When selecting a cleaning service:
- Look for companies specialising in short-term rentals
- Check reviews from other Airbnb hosts
- Ensure they offer flexible scheduling for last-minute bookings
- Agree on a detailed cleaning checklist in advance
- Consider services that offer digital reports with photos
Advanced Airbnb Cleaning Tips for Hosts
After years of hosting, I’ve developed these advanced strategies:
Preventative Maintenance
- Apply protective treatments to high-wear areas
- Use mattress and pillow protectors on all beds
- Select easy-clean furnishings and materials when renovating
- Install adequate storage so guests can keep spaces tidy
- Consider shoe-free policies for certain properties
Seasonal Deep Cleaning Tasks
- Steam clean carpets and upholstery quarterly
- Clean behind and under large appliances
- Wash curtains and blinds
- Descale showerheads and taps
- Clean out gutters and external drains
- Check and clean extractor fans
- Service HVAC systems before peak seasons
Guest Psychology and Perception
Understanding how guests perceive cleanliness has helped me focus my efforts where they matter most:
- First impressions – Entryway, kitchen and bathroom must be spotless
- Smell – A neutral, fresh scent signals cleanliness (avoid overpowering fragrances)
- Hidden areas – Guests often check under beds and inside ovens
- Touch points – Door handles, light switches and remote controls receive scrutiny
- Forgotten spots – Ceiling fans, top of refrigerator, behind toilet
Creating Systems That Scale
As my hosting business grew, I developed these systems to maintain consistency:
- Property manual with detailed cleaning instructions
- Inventory checklists for supplies and consumables
- Cleaning verification photos between stays
- Maintenance log to track deep cleaning tasks
- Guest feedback collection specifically about cleanliness
Eco-Friendly Airbnb Cleaning Approaches
Increasingly, guests appreciate sustainable cleaning practices:
- Use environmentally friendly cleaning products
- Offer optional towel reuse for multi-night stays
- Use microfibre cloths instead of disposable wipes
- Install refillable dispensers for soap and shampoo
- Choose concentrated products to reduce packaging
- Use energy-efficient appliances for laundry
Final Thoughts: The Hidden Value of Cleanliness
While cleanliness requires investment of time and resources, I’ve found it delivers returns well beyond just positive reviews. A properly maintained property:
- Retains its quality and appeal longer
- Commands higher nightly rates
- Attracts more conscientious guests
- Suffers fewer maintenance issues
- Creates word-of-mouth referrals
The effort you put into cleaning today protects your investment for years to come. By following this comprehensive checklist and developing systems that work for your specific property, you’ll create a foundation for hosting success in 2025 and beyond.
What cleaning challenges do you face with your Airbnb? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!