The Ultimate Airbnb Cleaning Checklist: 10 Steps to 5-Star Guest Reviews

Zainab Noori
January 10, 2025

As an Airbnb host, your goal isn’t just to provide a space—it’s to create an unforgettable experience for your guests. And while charm and hospitality are important, cleanliness is the cornerstone of earning those coveted 5-star reviews. After all, nothing makes a guest feel more at home than a spotless, welcoming environment. So, let’s dive into The Ultimate Airbnb Cleaning Checklist that’ll help you turn your space into a sparkling sanctuary your guests will rave about! 🌟

1. Declutter Every Space Before You Start
Before you reach for the cleaning supplies, tidy up! Remove any trash, forgotten items from previous guests, or personal belongings. Decluttering not only makes cleaning easier but ensures your space feels open and organized. Tip: Always check under beds, inside closets, and behind furniture for stray items or trash!

2. Wash and Change All Linens 🛏️Nothing screams “luxury” like freshly laundered linens. Strip the beds, swap out towels, and don’t forget extras like pillowcases and throw blankets.
Pro Move: Use crisp white linens to give off a hotel vibe, and don’t skimp on fabric softener for that fresh, welcoming scent.

3. Deep Clean the Bathroom Until It Sparkles 🛁✨
Bathrooms can make or break your guest’s experience. Scrub every inch, paying special attention to sinks, toilets, and showers. Replace used toiletries with fresh ones and make sure the mirrors are spotless. Checklist for Bathrooms: Scrub the toilet (inside and out!)
Clean soap scum from the shower and tub
Polish mirrors and fixtures
Replace toilet paper and stock extras
Empty the trash
Bonus Touch: Fold towels like they do in luxury hotels. It’s the little details that wow guests.

4. Sanitize Kitchen Surfaces and Appliances 🍳
Your guests will likely use the kitchen, so make sure it’s immaculate. Wipe down countertops, clean out the fridge, and sanitize high-touch surfaces like cabinet handles and the microwave.Don’t Forget:Check the oven and stovetop for spills
Empty the dishwasher (if provided)
Refill coffee or tea supplies
A fresh-smelling kitchen equals happy guests!

5. Dust, Dust, Dust (And Then Dust Again) 🕵️♀️
Dust has a sneaky way of ruining the vibe of a pristine space. Wipe down all surfaces, including shelves, light fixtures, and picture frames.Pro Tip: Don’t forget to dust the baseboards and blinds. These are details that guests notice but are often overlooked!

6. Vacuum and Mop Floors 🧹
Your floors take a beating with foot traffic, so they deserve some TLC. Vacuum carpets, mop hard floors, and pay extra attention to corners and edges. If you allow pets, consider using a deodorizing carpet spray to eliminate odors.Bonus: For an extra-polished look, use a steam mop for tile or wood floors.

7. Clean Windows and Glass Surfaces 🪟
Nothing kills a view like smudged windows. Clean all glass surfaces inside and out for a clear, streak-free finish. Pay attention to mirrors, glass tables, and shower doors too!

8. Disinfect High-Touch Areas 🧴
With cleanliness and health at the forefront of guest concerns, make sure you’re sanitizing:Door handles
Light switches
Remote controls
Thermostats
A quick wipe with a disinfecting cleaner can go a long way toward making your guests feel safe and secure.

9. Stock Up on Essentials 🛍️
Make sure your Airbnb is well-stocked with basics like toilet paper, paper towels, dish soap, and trash bags. Guests shouldn’t have to ask for these items—they should be ready and waiting.Extra Touches That Delight:A small welcome basket with snacks or toiletries
Fresh flowers or a note saying, “Enjoy your stay!”

10. Perform a Final Walkthrough 🚶♂️
Before your guests arrive, do one last walkthrough. Look at your space through their eyes:Are there any lingering smells?
Did you miss a spot on the floor?
Are all the amenities in place?
This final check ensures your space is absolutely perfect.

Conclusion: Clean Space, Happy Guests! 🏡
Creating a 5-star Airbnb experience starts with exceptional cleanliness. By following this 10-step cleaning checklist, you’ll not only wow your guests but build a reputation that keeps them coming back for more. After all, a clean space isn’t just appreciated—it’s unforgettable.Now go grab those cleaning supplies and let’s earn those stars! 🌟

Need Help? Let Apex Cleaning Solutions Handle It! 🧼✨

We get it—keeping your Airbnb spotless can be time-consuming and stressful, especially if you have back-to-back bookings. That’s where Apex Cleaning Solutions comes in! As professional cleaners with years of experience in commercial and residential cleaning, we know exactly how to make your property shine and leave your guests in awe. With our expertise, you’ll never have to worry about missing a detail or scrambling to clean between check-outs. Here’s how Apex Cleaning Solutions can make your life easier: Deep Cleaning Expertise: From sanitizing bathrooms to scrubbing kitchen appliances, we leave no corner untouched.
Customizable Packages: Whether you need a one-time cleaning or ongoing maintenance, we tailor our services to fit your schedule and budget.
Attention to Detail: We clean every surface, restock essentials, and ensure your space feels fresh and inviting.
Fast Turnarounds: Got back-to-back bookings? We specialize in quick, efficient cleaning to keep your schedule on track.