Cleanliness is the #1 factor in Airbnb guest reviews. A single "unclean" mention can tank your ratings and bookings. This comprehensive checklist covers everything guests notice—and the hidden details that separate 4-star from 5-star reviews.
The Golden Rule of Airbnb Cleaning
Think like a hotel—then exceed hotel standards. Your guests are paying for an experience, and cleanliness sets the tone from the moment they walk in. A spotless property gets better reviews, higher occupancy, and justifies premium pricing.
Before Each Turnover: Quick Assessment
- Check for any damage or maintenance issues
- Note items that need restocking
- Look for guest left-behind items
- Check that all amenities are in place
- Verify previous cleaning issues are resolved
Room-by-Room Turnover Checklist
Entryway (First Impressions!)
- Sweep/vacuum floor and mat
- Wipe door handle (inside and out)
- Clean light switches
- Dust any entryway furniture
- Arrange welcome materials neatly
- Fresh flowers or plant (if applicable)
- Check lighting works
Pro Tip: The entryway sets the tone. A clean entry with good lighting and a subtle pleasant scent immediately reassures guests they made the right choice.
Living Area
- Vacuum all floors/rugs thoroughly
- Fluff and arrange throw pillows
- Fold throw blankets neatly
- Dust all surfaces, electronics, and decor
- Clean TV screen (streak-free)
- Wipe remote controls with disinfectant
- Check under couch cushions for debris
- Clean windows and sliding door tracks
- Arrange coffee table items
- Check all lamps and lighting work
Kitchen
- Clean all appliances inside and out
- Wipe down refrigerator, remove old food
- Check freezer for forgotten items
- Clean microwave thoroughly
- Wipe oven and stovetop
- Run dishwasher empty (sanitize cycle)
- Clean coffee maker/Keurig
- Wipe all countertops
- Clean sink and polish faucet
- Wash, dry, and put away all dishes
- Check utensil drawers for cleanliness
- Wipe cabinet fronts
- Empty and clean trash can
- Replace trash bag
- Restock paper towels, dish soap, sponge
- Sweep and mop floor
Bedrooms
- Strip and remake bed with fresh linens
- Check mattress for stains or damage
- Vacuum/mop under bed
- Dust all surfaces and furniture
- Wipe down headboard
- Clean mirrors
- Vacuum floors and rugs
- Empty closet of previous guest items
- Provide enough hangers
- Check drawers are empty and clean
- Wipe light switches and door handles
- Check all lights work
- Set thermostat to welcoming temperature
Bathrooms (The Most Scrutinized Room)
- Deep clean toilet (bowl, base, behind, handle)
- Scrub shower/tub thoroughly
- Clean glass shower doors (no spots!)
- Wipe shower fixtures until they shine
- Scrub grout if needed
- Disinfect sink and polish faucet
- Clean mirrors (streak-free)
- Wipe all countertops
- Empty and wipe cabinets inside
- Restock toilet paper (3+ rolls visible)
- Provide fresh towels (hotel-fold)
- Set out fresh bath mat
- Restock toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, soap)
- Clean exhaust fan cover
- Empty trash and replace liner
- Mop floor thoroughly
- Leave toilet seat down with paper tent
Pro Tip: Guests judge your entire property by the bathroom. A sparkling, well-stocked bathroom can compensate for minor issues elsewhere. A dirty bathroom cannot be forgiven.
Laundry Area (If Applicable)
- Wipe down washer and dryer exterior
- Clean washer drum and door gasket
- Empty lint trap
- Wipe counters/folding area
- Sweep/mop floor
- Leave detergent and instructions
The Details Guests Notice
- Hair anywhere (bathroom floor, shower drain, bedding)
- Fingerprints on stainless steel appliances
- Dust on ceiling fans and light fixtures
- Streaky mirrors and glass
- Crumbs in kitchen drawers
- Stains on upholstery or bedding
- Smells (cooking odors, mustiness, previous guests)
- Toothpaste splatters on bathroom mirror
- Ring stains in toilet bowl
- Outdated/expired food items left behind
Final Walkthrough Checklist
- All lights work
- HVAC set to comfortable temperature
- Fresh scent (subtle, not overpowering)
- All supplies restocked
- Lockbox or smart lock tested
- Wifi credentials visible/accessible
- Welcome materials in place
- TV/remotes work and accessible
- Check-in instructions clear
- Property is photo-ready
Time Estimates by Property Size
- Studio/1BR: 1.5-2 hours
- 2BR: 2-3 hours
- 3BR: 3-4 hours
- 4+ BR: 4-6 hours
DIY vs. Professional Turnover Cleaning
Many hosts clean their own properties initially, but there are compelling reasons to hire professionals:
- Consistent quality every time
- Frees your time for hosting/communication
- Professionals catch details you might miss
- Reliable scheduling, even for back-to-back bookings
- Tax-deductible business expense