4. Cleaning
As you get ready to welcome your first guests, make sure you have a cleaning schedule that you can easily update. Have a cleaning checklist that you can use or give to your cleaning person to follow. It should include often-overlooked tasks like cleaning the oven, emptying the coffee maker, unloading the dishwasher, cleaning the microwave, emptying the fridge from the last guest, etc.
Take note of how long it takes to clean your rental on average. This will help with scheduling in the future.
I’ve said it before, but it bears repeating: cleanliness is the single most important factor in your success as an Airbnb host. If your space is not clean, you will never make it to Superhost status. This is the reason we discuss cleaning in several sections.
When we started out and for years, I would create a calendar on word and send it out to my cleaner and co-host. Since you are likely to get reservations at all times, your cleaning calendar will change frequently. Every time we got a new reservation, I would have to go back, update the word file, and send it out to everyone again.
Use Google calendars
Google calendars has been a great way to avoid the constant updating and confusion, as you can update your cleaning calendar from your phone, tablet or computer, and everyone you’re sharing your calendar with has access to the latest version.
Google provides step-by-step instructions on how to create and share a group calendar here. Make sure to also download the Google calendar app for your phone so that you always have easy access to your cleaning calendar.
Cleaning checklists
Cleaning can be a lot easier when you have a set list of what needs to get done every time your rental is cleaned for the next guest. Beyond the regular cleaning, rental hosts need to be alert to certain issues like emptying the dishwasher; checking the closets, drawers and under furniture for forgotten items; and making sure the unit is fully stocked with toilet paper, paper towels and other amenities you provide.
For our check-in cleaning checklist, click here.
Shower liners
Shower liners can get dirty quickly and can be very difficult to clean thoroughly. We try to change our shower liners every 3-4 months. We buy inexpensive shower liners from Amazon and always keep spares in case one needs to be changed immediately.
Deeper periodic cleaning: With diligent, regular cleaning, your unit should remain clean and well maintained. However, there is always a need to perform a more thorough cleaning after a few months of constant guests. You should deep clean at least once a year, but preferably once per season. Cornerstone Confessions has a great deep cleaning checklist here.