Airbnb Cleaning Checklist – Prepare Your Rental for Guests

How much time does it take to thoroughly clean a flat? The time depends on the property’s size, condition, and number of rooms. A small, well-maintained flat may take around 2–3 hours to clean, while a larger property or one requiring deep cleaning may need 4–6 hours or more.

For Airbnb hosts, a consistent cleaning routine is essential for creating a welcoming space and earning positive guest reviews. Our practical Airbnb cleaning checklist helps you clean every room efficiently, maintain high hygiene standards, and prepare your property for the next check-in.

From gathering cleaning supplies to checking the final details, follow these professional cleaning tips to keep your Airbnb spotless, comfortable, and guest-ready.

Assemble Your Cleaning Supplies

A well-organised cleaning kit makes every turnover easier. Having the right products and tools ready before you begin helps prevent unnecessary delays and ensures you can clean each area thoroughly.

Before starting, gather the following essentials:

• Microfibre cloths and dusters

• A vacuum cleaner and mop

• Suitable floor and surface cleaners

• Glass and mirror cleaner

• Bathroom and kitchen cleaning products

• Disinfectant for appropriate high-touch surfaces

• Sponges, scrub brushes, and disposable gloves

• Fresh bin liners

• Clean towels, bed sheets, and pillowcases

• Toilet paper, hand soap, and other guest toiletries

Choose cleaning products suitable for your property’s surfaces and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Keep cleaning chemicals safely stored away from children and pets, and never mix products such as bleach and ammonia.

Pro tip: Keep a separate cleaning checklist and supply inventory for your property. This simple habit helps you identify missing items before the next guest arrives.

Prepare the Flat for Cleaning

Before deep cleaning begins, prepare the property to make the process faster and more organised.

Open the windows when appropriate to ventilate the space, collect used linens, and remove rubbish from every room. Check for items left behind by previous guests and follow your property’s lost-property procedure before handling or disposing of them.

Walk through the flat to identify spills, stains, damaged items, or maintenance issues that need attention. Prioritise heavily used areas, including the kitchen, bathroom, living room, and bedroom.

Preparing the property first allows you to clean systematically rather than moving repeatedly between rooms.

Declutter and Organize Every Room

A tidy property creates a positive first impression and makes detailed cleaning easier. Start by removing rubbish and returning misplaced items to their proper locations.

Follow these steps:

• Empty all rubbish bins and replace the liners.

• Remove used towels, bed sheets, and pillowcases.

• Arrange furniture neatly and fluff decorative cushions.

• Return books, games, and entertainment items to their designated places.

• Organise kitchen utensils, cookware, and dishes.

• Check bathroom storage and arrange guest toiletries neatly.

• Remove unnecessary clutter from tables, counters, and shelves.

Pay attention to small details, such as straightening chairs, arranging cushions, and ensuring surfaces are clear. These finishing touches help the flat look organised, comfortable, and ready for new arrivals.

Follow a Room-by-Room Airbnb Cleaning Checklist

Cleaning one room at a time helps ensure that nothing is overlooked. Work from higher surfaces to lower ones, and clean floors towards the end to avoid repeating tasks.

Clean the Kitchen

The kitchen requires particular attention because guests expect food preparation areas to be hygienic.

• Clean and disinfect suitable worktops and frequently touched handles.

• Clean the stovetop, microwave, sink, and splashback.

• Wipe the exterior of the refrigerator and other appliances.

• Check the refrigerator for leftover food and remove items according to your property policy.

• Wash and put away dishes, glasses, and cooking utensils.

• Empty the rubbish bin and replace its liner.

• Sweep and mop the floor.

• Restock essential items such as washing-up liquid, bin liners, and dishwashing supplies.

Check that appliances are clean and functioning properly. If you discover a fault, report it promptly rather than leaving the issue for the next guest.

Refresh the Bathroom

Bathrooms must be clean, fresh-smelling, and hygienic. Start with cleaner areas and finish with the toilet to reduce the risk of cross-contamination.

• Clean and disinfect the toilet, including the seat, flush button, and surrounding surfaces.

• Scrub the shower or bathtub and remove visible soap residue.

• Clean the sink, taps, and countertop.

• Polish mirrors and glass surfaces.

• Wipe suitable tiles and frequently touched handles.

• Remove hair and debris from the floor.

• Replace used towels with fresh ones.

• Replenish toilet paper, hand soap, and other included toiletries.

Inspect corners, grout lines, and shower fittings for visible dirt or mould. Any persistent mould or drainage issue may require additional treatment or professional assistance.

Clean the Bedroom

A clean, comfortable bedroom is essential for a positive guest experience.

• Strip used bed linen and replace it with fresh sheets and pillowcases.

• Inspect the mattress and pillows for visible stains or damage.

• Dust bedside tables, wardrobes, lamps, and other furniture.

• Clean mirrors and accessible glass surfaces.

• Wipe door handles, light switches, and other high-touch points.

• Check drawers and wardrobes for forgotten belongings.

• Vacuum carpets or mop hard flooring as appropriate.

Make the bed neatly and arrange pillows consistently. If you provide spare blankets or extra pillows, check that they are clean and stored properly.

Tidy the Living Room

The living room should feel inviting and ready for guests to relax.

• Dust shelves, tables, lamps, and decorative items.

• Vacuum sofas and upholstered furniture, including accessible gaps.

• Check cushions for stains, crumbs, and loose debris.

• Wipe suitable electronic surfaces and remote controls carefully.

• Clean glass tables and mirrors.

• Arrange furniture and decorations neatly.

• Vacuum or mop the floor.

Pay particular attention to sofa seams and areas beneath furniture, where crumbs and dust can accumulate. For stubborn upholstery stains or unpleasant odours, consider professional sofa cleaning.

Finish Hallways and Shared Areas

Hallways, entryways, and balconies can easily be overlooked during a busy turnover.

Dust accessible surfaces, clean door handles, wipe switches, and remove visible marks where appropriate. Sweep balconies and entryways, and check that pathways are clear of rubbish or personal belongings.

These areas contribute to the overall impression guests form when they first enter the property.

Replace Essentials and Check the Inventory

Restocking is an important part of preparing an Airbnb for the next arrival. Guests appreciate finding the essentials they need without having to contact the host.

Check your inventory for:

• Toilet paper and hand soap

• Fresh towels and bed linen

• Bin liners and cleaning essentials

• Dishwashing liquid and kitchen supplies

• Coffee, tea, and other advertised refreshments

• Cooking utensils, plates, and glasses

• Additional amenities included in your listing

Restock according to your property’s occupancy, length of stay, and advertised facilities. Keep an inventory list to monitor supplies and identify items that need replacing.

Also check for damaged crockery, missing remote controls, and other issues that could affect the guest experience.

Add Thoughtful Guest-Friendly Touches

Small details can make your Airbnb feel more welcoming without significantly increasing cleaning time.

Arrange towels neatly, ensure the lighting works, and leave the guest information in an easy-to-find location. You might also provide a local guidebook, restaurant recommendations, or a short welcome note.

Make sure any complimentary refreshments or toiletries match your listing description. Avoid adding unnecessary decorations or personal items that create clutter.

The goal is to create a comfortable, practical space where guests can settle in easily and enjoy their stay.

How Long Does Airbnb Cleaning Take?

The time required depends on the property’s size, cleanliness, number of bathrooms, and the services needed.

These estimates are general guidelines for routine cleaning and turnover preparation. Laundry, extensive restocking, stubborn stains, and maintenance issues can increase the time needed. Deep cleaning typically requires a separate schedule.

Make Every Airbnb Turnover Easier

Keeping an Airbnb clean between bookings takes planning, consistency, and attention to detail. With an organised cleaning kit, a room-by-room checklist, and a thorough final inspection, you can maintain a welcoming property and provide a better experience for your guests.

If you manage multiple properties or have tight check-in and check-out schedules, professional cleaning support can save valuable time and help you maintain consistent standards.

Need help preparing your property for the next guest? Contact a professional cleaning service to discuss your Airbnb turnover or deep cleaning requirements. Get your flat cleaned, refreshed, and ready to welcome your next guests with confidence.