.svg)
Cleanliness is key to Airbnb success. Properties rated 4.8 or higher see 20% more bookings. This guide helps you meet Airbnb's UK cleaning standards and exceed guest expectations. Here's what you'll learn:
Use this checklist to maintain a spotless property, improve reviews, and boost bookings.
Start by gathering the supplies you'll need for efficient cleaning. Here's a handy breakdown:
| Category | Items to Have on Hand |
|---|---|
| Basic Supplies | • All-purpose cleaner • Glass cleaner • Bathroom cleaner • Kitchen disinfectant • Microfibre cloths |
| Equipment | • Vacuum cleaner • Mop and bucket • Broom and dustpan • Extendable duster • Scrub brushes |
| Disposables | • Paper towels • Bin liners • Disinfectant wipes • Sponges • Cleaning cloths |
Having everything ready in advance helps save time and keeps the cleaning process smooth.
Before starting, make sure your property is equipped with working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Test these devices regularly to ensure they’re functioning properly. If you're managing a rental, update your listing to confirm these safety measures are in place.
Take a moment to inspect and air out the property before diving into the cleaning.
1. Check the Property Thoroughly
Walk through the space to spot any areas that need extra attention. Keep an eye out for damage and make a note of anything that requires fixing.
2. Let the Air In
Proper ventilation is key. Open all windows and doors for 15–30 minutes to improve airflow. Here are a few tips to maximise ventilation:
These steps will help freshen up the space and prepare it for cleaning.
Every room has its own cleaning needs to meet professional standards. Here's how to tackle them.
The living room sets the tone for your property. Make it shine by focusing on these areas:
| Task Category | Key Actions |
|---|---|
| Surfaces | - Dust all surfaces with a microfibre cloth - Polish wooden furniture - Clean windows and mirrors - Sanitise remote controls and light switches |
| Soft Furnishings | - Vacuum sofas and chairs - Wash cushion covers if needed - Remove cobwebs from ceilings and corners |
| Flooring | - Vacuum carpets thoroughly - Mop hard floors - Wipe down skirting boards |
Once the living room is spotless, it's time to address the kitchen, where cleanliness is critical for food safety.
Bathrooms require extra care to ensure hygiene. Here's what to focus on:
| Area | Cleaning Instructions |
|---|---|
| Shower/Bath | - Remove limescale - Scrub grout and tiles - Replace the shower curtain if needed |
| Toilet | - Deep clean the bowl and seat - Sanitise the flush handle - Clean around and behind the base |
| Sink/Mirror | - Polish taps and fittings - Clear the drain and plug hole - Remove water marks from the mirror |
For a comfortable and inviting bedroom, follow these steps:
Keeping supplies well-stocked is key to keeping guests happy. Dedicate specific storage areas and maintain consistent stock levels to avoid last-minute scrambles. Here's a quick guide:
| Category | Essential Items | Recommended Stock Levels |
|---|---|---|
| Toiletries | Toilet paper, hand soap, shampoo, shower gel | 2 per bathroom + 2 spares |
| Kitchen | Bin bags, washing-up liquid, dishwasher tablets | 1-week supply |
| Cleaning | Surface sprays, glass cleaners, disinfectant wipes | Minimum 2 of each |
| Laundry | Washing powder, fabric softener, stain remover | Full-size containers |
Vanwaw Corporation Rentals, a property management platform, saved £640 per month by implementing automated scheduling and inventory tracking for supplies. Staying on top of inventory isn't just practical - it ensures your property meets professional cleaning standards.
Creating a clean and inviting atmosphere includes managing odours effectively. It's a small but impactful detail that guests notice.
"I try to use mostly plant-based cleaners, nothing too harsh. They're more expensive, but a good investment. I've gotten so many compliments about how fresh a place smells".
Here are some effective methods:
"For our Branson brand, our cleaners have a seasonal spritz they like to put in the houses on arrival day. Pumpkin spice for fall, Christmas cinnamon for the holidays, fresh linen other times of the year. A simple touch that makes our guests feel welcomed the moment they step into the home!".
Once odour control is sorted, you're ready for the final property check.
With supplies refilled and odours neutralised, it's time for a thorough property check. Here's a checklist to ensure everything is guest-ready:
| Area | Check Points | Common Issues to Address |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | Welcome mat, doorbell, entry lights | Clean mat, working lights |
| Living Spaces | Furniture placement, electronics | Match reference photos, check electronic devices |
| Kitchen | Appliances, worktops, bins | Empty bins, streak-free surfaces |
| Bedrooms | Bed making, window treatments | Properly tucked sheets, even curtains |
| Bathrooms | Amenities, fixtures, mirrors | Full toiletries, spotless mirrors |
This final walkthrough ensures every detail is in place before guests arrive.
Having a well-structured cleaning timetable is key to keeping property standards consistent. Research from Breezeway highlights that automated scheduling can boost efficiency and help avoid missed cleaning sessions.
Here’s an example of how to organise your cleaning timetable:
| Time Block | Tasks | Duration | Priority Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-checkout | Property inspection, supply inventory | 30 mins | High |
| Post-checkout | Deep cleaning, sanitisation | 3–4 hours | Critical |
| Pre-arrival | Final checks, seasonal touches | 45 mins | High |
| Monthly | Deep cleaning tasks, maintenance checks | 6–8 hours | Medium |
In addition to a clear schedule, having well-defined staff protocols is crucial to maintain these cleaning standards.
Once a schedule is in place, setting clear guidelines for cleaning staff helps ensure quality and compliance. In the UK, all cleaning operations - regardless of size - must adhere to health and safety regulations.
| Training Area | Required Elements | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Health & Safety | COSHH training, risk assessment | Every 6 months |
| Cleaning Protocols | Room-specific procedures, equipment use | Quarterly |
| Quality Standards | Inspection criteria, documentation | Monthly |
"The duty holder is responsible for ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation." – UKCPI
Key responsibilities for cleaning staff include:
It’s important to regularly review and update cleaning procedures to align with the latest Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines. For example, in March 2023, updates to COSHH regulations required businesses to reassess their approach to handling hazardous substances.
Key areas to focus on for compliance:
Keeping your Airbnb spotless is key to ensuring happy guests and glowing reviews. Here's a breakdown of the must-do cleaning tasks:
| Task Category | Key Actions | How Often |
|---|---|---|
| Surface Cleaning | Disinfect high-touch areas, dust, vacuum | After every stay |
| Bathroom Cleaning | Sanitize fixtures, deep clean, restock toiletries | After every stay |
| Kitchen Cleaning | Clean appliances, check inventory, restock supplies | After every stay |
| Bedroom Prep | Replace linens, inspect mattresses, rotate pillows | After every stay |
| Property Check | Assess for damage, conduct maintenance checks, update inventory | After every stay |
"Offering a clean space is the most important part of five-star hospitality." - Airbnb
These tasks set the foundation for a well-maintained property and satisfied guests.
Turn these standards into a consistent routine:
Following these steps ensures your property stays in top shape, leading to better guest experiences, positive reviews, and more repeat bookings. Regularly updating your cleaning routine to meet UK health and safety guidelines will keep your space at its best.