How to Keep Your Vacation Rental Spotless [+ Cleaning Checklist]

Key Takeaways

Clean Properties = Success: A spotless and sanitized rental will boost guest satisfaction, earning better reviews, and meaning higher occupancy rates.

Define Clear Cleaning Standards: Use a cleaning checklist to maintain consistency.

Automate Property Cleanings: Use property management tools to schedule cleanings and guarantee rentals are spotless after each check-out.

Partner with Reliable Cleaners: Hire experienced cleaning services who are familiar with vacation rentals to maintain standards and avoid negative reviews.

A short-term rental unit has certain standards that it must abide by to attract renters. A good first impression is everything and cleanliness is at the top of that list! A spotless property can make or break your short-term rental resulting in a one-time booking or a loyal returning guest.

A survey by Airbnb shows that properties with top cleanliness ratings are 20% more likely to receive repeat bookings in comparison to properties with average cleanliness scores.

This is a critical business strategy as a well-maintained property stands out in search results, attracts better reviews, and results in higher rental rates.

What Is Short-Term Rental Cleaning?

Short-term rental vacation cleaning is a specialized cleaning process that is extremely different from standard home cleaning. While a standard home cleaning will focus on maintaining a lived-in home, a vacation rental cleaning pays special attention to smaller details, such as hygienic cleanliness and fully restocked amenities and must-haves for each new visitor.

Differences Between Vacation Rental Cleaning and Standard Home Cleaning

1. Frequency & Timing

Vacation rental cleaning is done after every guest check-out, while a standard house cleaning is typically done weekly or biweekly.

2. Attention to Detail

Vacation rental cleaning guarantees that every surface is cleaned and the property is staged for the new guest’s arrival. The smallest oversight can result in negative guest reviews.

3. Sanitization Requirements

Vacation rentals require deep sanitization of frequently touched areas like doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls. A standard house cleaning might not pay so much attention to each surface area.

4. Restocking & Setup

This is an important point for many guests as they expect basic toiletries and supplies included in their rental. A vacation rental cleaning should involve restocking soap, and coffee supplies, changing linens, etc.

Short-Term Vacation Rental Cleaning Checklist

To help guide you as a property manager on the type of cleaning needed on a regular basis, we have compiled a checklist for you to follow.

✔️ Turnover Cleaning

Done after every guest check-out.

Bedrooms & Living Areas:

✅ Change linens and make beds

✅ Dust all surfaces (tables, shelves, dressers)

✅ Wipe down electronics and remote controls

✅ Vacuum carpets, rugs, and mop floors

✅ Sanitize light switches, doorknobs, and handles

Bathrooms:

✅ Clean and disinfect sinks, toilets, bathtubs and showers

✅ Wipe mirrors and glass surfaces

✅ Empty garbage and replace liners

✅ Restock toiletries (soap, shampoo, toilet paper)

Kitchen:

✅ Wipe down all countertops and appliances

✅ Clean the inside of the microwave and fridge (usually overlooked!)

✅ Wash dishes or load/unload the dishwasher

✅ Empty garbage and replace liners

✅ Restock essentials like paper towels and dish soap

Last Minute Tips:

✅ Open windows to air out the property

✅ Inspect the rental unit for forgotten items or damage

✅ Check that all lights, appliances, and electronics work properly

✔️ Deep Cleaning

Recommended to be done biannually for deep maintenance and thorough cleaning.

Bedrooms & Living Areas:

✅ Steam clean carpets, upholstery, and rugs

✅ Wash curtains and blinds

✅ Clean ceiling fans, vents, and light fixtures

✅ Dust and wipe down baseboards and door frames

✅ Move and clean behind furniture

Bathrooms:

✅ Deep scrub shower tiles and grout

✅ Descale showerheads and faucets

Kitchen:

✅ Deep clean oven, stovetop, and exhaust fan

✅ Empty and clean fridge and freezer

✅ Wipe inside of cabinets and drawers

✅ Wash and disinfect garbage and recycling bins

General Areas:

✅ Inspect and replace air filters (if applicable)

✅ Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms

How Clean Should A Guest Leave a Rental Property?

For short-term vacation rentals, cleanliness is mandatory for platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo, as they require rentals to meet certain standards. This is true for both hosts and guests, as the host’s reviews can also impact the acceptance of guests at other properties. Generally speaking, property owners expect guests to leave rentals in “broom-clean” conditions. This means that dishes are washed or in the dishwasher, and rooms are left tidy.

💡 A cleaning fee is a one-time charge set by the host to cover the cost of preparing the space for guests. It’s usually added to the nightly rate and ensures that the property is clean, tidy, and ready for each stay.

Should You Include Cleaning Fees or Absorb the Cost?

As a property manager, deciding whether to add a cleaning fee or include it in the nightly rate depends on your pricing strategy.

Charging a separate cleaning fee works well in many cases as it proves to the guests that a professional cleaning service is used for each guest’s stay. However, on certain platforms and in some cases, it’s best to indicate exactly what is covered and not in this cleaning fee to avoid misunderstandings and negative reviews. Most guests are more likely to accept added fees when they are aware of what exactly is being included.

On the other hand, if you decide to not charge an additional fee and therefore include it in the nightly rate, it can appeal to certain guests by giving the illusion of being a more affordable option. Although the nightly price might seem higher than others, guests see it as a “good deal” that extra charges are not applied upon reserving. This positive aspect can boost your positive comments and guest feedback, giving an “all-inclusive” pricing rather than added service fees.

Pro Tip: Review other properties in your area and compare their cleaning fee structure.

How to Handle Guest Complaints About Cleanliness

Negative comments and guest complaints about cleanliness can happen, even when you have a professional cleaning routine in place. Make sure to respond promptly and professionally to show you appreciate their feedback and take concerns seriously. Start by apologizing for the inconvenience and ask about specific details and examples. This will help you communicate with your cleaning team about the issues. If the guest is still at the property, offer a solution, like sending a cleaning service immediately.

Automating Cleanings

Coordinating cleanings across multiple properties can be a challenge. Automating this process through an integration like Avantio and Breezeway helps schedule tasks around check-ins and check-outs, and keeps cleaners informed in real-time. This automation is especially useful on busy turnover days, ensuring each rental is prepared – even when one guest departs and another arrives shortly after. Plus, with detailed checklists, they’ll have clear expectations on how to deliver on your brand standards for 5-star guest reviews.

Pro Tip: Property managers working with Breezeway’s integration have seen their Airbnb cleanliness review score increase from 4.66 to 4.83. (Breezeway’s 2025 Airbnb Review Report)

Finding a Reliable Cleaning Service

Finding a reliable cleaning service can be overwhelming but start by researching online for local providers who specialize in vacation rentals. Look for companies with positive reviews and most importantly, flexible availability! Make sure to clearly identify your cleaning checklist with them and establish standards to maintain consistent results for your property.

Most professional cleaning services will provide supplies and equipment, however, it’s recommended to also keep certain supplies at the property in case you need to quickly tidy up or to encourage guests to clean up after themselves.

Essential Equipment and Supplies

Cleaning Equipment
Vacuum
Mop and bucket
Broom and dustpan
Microfiber cloths
All-purpose cleaner (eco-friendly recommended)
Disinfectant spray and wipes
Glass cleaner
Bathroom cleaner (for tubs, toilets, and sinks)
Degreaser (for kitchen appliances)
Floor cleaner

Keep Your Short-Term Rental Clean and Guest-Ready

Keeping a clean property is vital for attracting guests by earning positive reviews. When clear cleaning standards are set you can confidently present your property before every check-in.

Remember to use a well-structured cleaning checklist that is bound to keep guests happy and returning to your property.