What Are The Rules For Cleaning Airbnb Hosts?

Cleaning and comfortability are key elements to being an Airbnb host. Not only is a clean listing going to generally gain better reviews and ratings; it is also part of the company standards. Here's what you need to know about cleaning rules and best practices for an Airbnb host.

The 5-Step Enhanced Cleaning Process Presented by Airbnb

In line with COVID-19, enhanced cleaning protocols are a ritual for all hosts. It consists of 5 steps that include:

Prepare

• Ventilate the space before and during cleaning

• Protective equipment: masks and gloves

Clean

• Sweep, vacuum, dust, and mop

• Cleaning of all hard surfaces using cleaning soap and water

• Wash all linens at the highest heat setting

Sanitize

• Spraying of high contact areas by approved disinfectant sprays

• Let the disinfectant stand for the elapsed time for it

Check

• Use the cleaning checklist to ensure that everything is cleaned

• Restock items that need restocking

Reset

• Wash hands and responsibly dispose of cleaning products

• Protectively store cleaning equipment and air space

This way, hosts that commit to this cleaning protocol on Airbnb get an extra visual highlight on the listing page, indicating that they are taking these extra measures. For reasons relating to the guests' health and security, it is important to be regular in following this process.

General Cleaning Guidelines for Hosts

In addition to COVID-19 cleaning, there are a few general guidelines and best practices all hosts are expected to follow regarding general cleaning between guests, such as:

• The whole space should be cleaned and prepared between each guest's stay

• Conse-stentials like toilet paper, cleaning supplies such as hand/body soap should be provided in full count

• Empty all trash cans and remove perishable foods left by previous guests

• Wipe down all hard surfaces

• Vacuuming and mopping floors, steaming your carpets on a regular basis

• Dusting shelving, decorative blinds, window sills, etc.

• Cleaning inside and out appliances like ovens, microwaves, and coffee makers

• Washing all blankets, comforters, mattress pads on a regular basis

• Cleaning and sanitizing of remotes, doorknob, cabinet handles, etc.

• Fresh making beds with a whole new set of clean linens for each staying guest

• Final check for any possible missed spots or restocking of items as needed

While this list addresses major areas, every space is different, so use your own judgment to ensure all areas a guest might use are clean and tidy. If you're unable to clean anything with thoroughness, consider hiring a reputable cleaning service with experience cleaning short-term rentals.

Are guests expected to clean?

One of the questions people usually ask is whether guests are expected to clean the Airbnb before leaving. The basic assumption for checkout in almost all rentals should not include any sort of heavy duty cleaning. Many guests will exercise simple graciousness toward the owner by taking out the trash and washing the dishes they used. However, it is the responsibility of the host to get the place properly cleaned and sanitized between guests.

Some hosts charge an additional cleaning fee to help account for the time needed to clean and supplies. If you do charge a cleaning fee, describe clearly in the listing description what that covers, so guests know what to expect. You can also put in your house manual a cleaning checklist as a suggestion to guests.

Local Regulations and Tax Collection

In addition to the cleaning standards for Airbnb, there are other laws at the local level, about short-term rentals, which each and every host needs to be aware of. Many cities and countries have specific laws or legislation on licensing, zoning, taxes, and health and safety standards within rental properties.

For instance, some cities require hosts to register or obtain a permit before they can be allowed to rent on Airbnb. Some locations may have restrictions on the maximum number of days in a given year that you can rent or require hosts to collect occupancy taxes from guests. Obviously, you'll want to be aware of these in your area so that you can be in complete compliance. Airbnb actually does have some general information about regulations for each country, but it's always a good idea to check with your local government offices, too.

How to Ensure an Airbnb Cleaning Experience

Ultimately, what makes a successful Airbnb space is one that's clean and inviting. A 2019 global survey by Airbnb showed that 97% of guests in the U.S. said cleanliness was the most important factor in their accommodation experience. Guests are known to examine ratings and reviews concerning cleaning carefully when picking a place to book.

It also helps in avoiding problems that could lead to refunds, bad reviews, or even damage to the property. For example, dirty linens could mean a guest complaint and a request for a refund by the guests under the Airbnb Guest Refund Policy. An unclean kitchen may invite pests infestation. Mold or dusty air filters may trigger a guest's allergies or asthma. Thorough cleaning adverts all these types of problems.

Even if cleaning feels like a chore, know it is actually one of the most important investments you make in your Airbnb business. Happy guests translate into good reviews, referrals, and eventually, bookings. By following through with the standards prescribed by Sparkly Maid Miami and working out a regular cleaning routine, you will make your space look brilliant and have guests coming back again and again.