Cleanup Rules 101 for Your Airbnb: What New Hosts Should Include
If you're renting out your place on Airbnb, VRBO, or another booking platform for the first time, you're probably wondering what kind of cleanup rules you should give your guests—I was for a long time! It's an important question. Especially because a lot of guests or potential guests can feel that the problem with going to an Airbnb/short-term rental is the amount of clean up they're asked to do when leaving, despite paying a cleaning fee.
This can put off guests, cause bad reviews, and affect your bookings. For rules on cleaning up, don't go overboard. Guests are paying a fee for a reason. Be clear, but set reasonable expectations so your they treat your property with care, and your turnovers stay on schedule.
What should be in your cleanup rules?
Below is an example of a clear, guest-friendly cleanup checklist that hits all the right notes:
Before you go, please:
- • Return the parking pass and garage fob to the unit.
(The building charges $150 each for lost items, so this is a big one!) - • Leave the beds unmade.
No need to strip them—your cleaners will handle it. - • Place used towels on the bathroom floor.
This makes it easy for the cleaning team to grab and wash. - • Load the dishwasher and start it.
A small ask that makes a huge difference in turnaround time. - • Move all furniture and items back to their original spots.
This helps keep your home photo-ready for the next guest. - • Set the thermostat to 78°F.
Saving energy while keeping the space comfortable between stays. - • Double-check all windows are closed and locked.
For safety and security. - • If your unit had a physical key, leave it inside before you go.
Why do these rules work?
Each rule is short, clear, and easy to follow. No guest wants to deep-clean your place, but most are happy to help with simple tasks if they're told exactly what to do. They also help you avoid awkward messages later like, "Hey, did you happen to take the key with you?"
Tips for new hosts
If you're just getting started, here are a few tips I've discovered over the years:
1. Be specific, but not demanding in your tone.
For example saying "Please leave the beds unmade" is better than "You must strip all linens." It sets a tone of hospitality, not rules-lawyering.
2. Explain the why behind important requests.
For example, if a lost garage clicker costs $150 to replace, tell your guests! Most people want to avoid that just as much as you do.
3. Put it in the right places.
If you want people to follow the rules, make sure you include them in several places that are easy for your guests to find, like your Airbnb house manual, your checkout message (send it the night before guests leave), a printed checkout checklist visible in your unit, like the fridge, by the front door, or in the welcome binder.
4. End with some warmth
Even if you're sharing a list of rules, always end on a human note: "We hope you had a wonderful stay and wish you safe travels back home!" That simple line reminds guests they're welcome and that you care.