The Airbnb Cleaning Checklist You Didn’t Know You Needed

Managing a short-term rental is about more than bookings and decor. Guests judge the cleanliness of your space within seconds of arrival, and that first impression can make or break your reputation. No matter how great your property looks in photos, if the floors are gritty, the bathroom isn’t spotless, or the sheets feel less than fresh, it’ll show up in your reviews.

Airbnb and other STR platforms have pushed the standard for cleaning higher than ever. Hosts are expected to provide hotel-like cleanliness with the warmth of a home. That’s not easy. And for hosts juggling multiple turnovers, guests with unpredictable checkout times, or properties with high occupancy, it can be downright overwhelming.

To help streamline the process, here’s a complete, room-by-room checklist to guide your STR/Airbnb cleaning routine. Whether you’re a DIY host or you’ve brought in professionals like Summit Maids for support, this guide ensures your property is always five-star ready.

General Guidelines for Every Room

Before diving into individual spaces, keep these all-purpose principles in mind:

• Work top-down: Start with ceiling fans and work your way to the floors.

• Replace what needs replacing: Not everything can be wiped down—some things should be swapped out entirely, like sponges or toilet brushes.

• Reset the layout: Reorganize furniture and decor exactly as shown in your listing photos. Consistency matters.

• Restock and inspect: Always check for damage or wear and ensure all amenities are replenished.

Now, let’s break it down room by room.

Living Room / Common Areas

• Vacuum and mop floors

• Dust all surfaces, including under and behind furniture

• Wipe down remotes, switches, and handles

• Clean mirrors, glass tables, and decor accents

• Fluff pillows and straighten throw blankets

• Empty trash and replace liners

• Check for lost items in couch cushions or under furniture

• Reorganize coffee table books or magazines

Don’t forget to inspect any games, books, or tech devices you provide. If they’re dusty or disorganized, they reflect poorly—even if untouched.

Kitchen

The kitchen is a focal point of any STR/Airbnb cleaning checklist. Guests expect it to look and feel as though it’s never been used.

• Empty and wipe down refrigerator (check for leftovers)

• Clean microwave inside and out

• Scrub stovetop and wipe down oven exterior

• Wipe countertops, cabinets, drawer handles

• Wash, dry, and put away dishes (or check the dishwasher)

• Clean sink and garbage disposal

• Disinfect high-touch areas: coffee makers, toasters, and other appliances

• Replace dish towels and sponges

• Refill coffee pods, tea, sugar, and any stocked pantry items

• Take out trash and clean bin interiors

Bonus: Open the drawers. Crumbs and utensil grime build up quickly—and guests will notice.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms are among the most scrutinized areas by guests. Every surface must sparkle.

• Scrub the toilet (base, lid, and bowl)

• Clean inside and around the shower/tub, including grout lines

• Wipe down mirrors, faucets, and sinks

• Clean and organize toiletries or amenity trays

• Replenish toilet paper, soap, and shampoo

• Replace used towels with fresh ones

• Disinfect all handles, switches, and light pulls

• Empty trash and sanitize bin

• Check drains for clogs or slow drainage

This is also the time to double-check for water stains, stray hairs, or mold—three red flags for any guest.

Bedrooms

Comfort and cleanliness go hand in hand when it comes to bedrooms. No shortcuts here.

• Strip and replace all bedding (even unused duvets or throw pillows if in doubt)

• Vacuum under the bed and between furniture gaps

• Dust lampshades, headboards, and nightstands

• Sanitize remotes, alarm clocks, or tabletops

• Check drawers for left-behind belongings

• Replenish tissue boxes, extra blankets, or earplugs if provided

• Ensure no personal items or previous guest traces remain

Linens should be washed at high heat and replaced every turnover. If in doubt, change it out.

Outdoor Areas (if applicable)

Outdoor spaces leave a lasting impression—especially in warmer seasons.

• Sweep patios, decks, or balconies

• Wipe down outdoor furniture

• Check for cobwebs in corners or light fixtures

• Empty outdoor trash bins

• Clean grills, fire pits, or outdoor cooking areas

• Tidy up shared items like yard games or cushions

• Secure items that might blow away in wind

If you provide amenities like bikes or kayaks, make sure they’re in good working order and cleaned between uses.

Final Touches Before the Guest Arrives

Even after every room is spotless, these last-minute tasks elevate the guest experience:

• Do a walk-through from the guest’s perspective: entryway, living space, bathroom

• Turn on soft lighting or open curtains for natural light

• Set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature

• Leave a welcome note or printed Wi-Fi instructions

• Make sure keys or access codes work properly

• Confirm that noise machines, air purifiers, or fans are operational

These simple gestures show that care went into the preparation—and that sets the tone for the stay.

Why Standard House Cleaning Isn’t Enough for STRs

Short-term rental turnovers demand speed, accuracy, and consistency. What works for weekly house cleaning doesn’t necessarily translate to STR readiness. A single oversight—missed crumbs, a hair in the sink, an empty hand soap bottle—can lead to poor reviews and lost bookings.

Professionals familiar with STR expectations don’t just clean—they reset the entire space to match listing photos, amenity promises, and health standards.

Hosts managing multiple units or facing back-to-back bookings often choose to outsource cleaning to providers who specialize in STR turnovers. Summit Maids works with property owners and managers to streamline that process, bringing reliability and detail-focused results to every turnover.

Conclusion: Cleanliness Is the Ultimate Hospitality Tool

A well-cleaned Airbnb or short-term rental goes beyond visual appeal. It reassures your guests that their comfort, health, and satisfaction have been anticipated.

By following a detailed checklist—and staying consistent with every turnover—you’re not just avoiding bad reviews. You’re building a brand of trust, reliability, and quality that brings guests back again and again.

A truly clean space is more than sanitized—it’s staged for relaxation, confidence, and an exceptional stay.