Airbnb Cleaning Checklist: 5-Star Turnover Every Time
12 items
Your Airbnb cleaning directly determines your star rating and booking frequency. Guests notice everything: a single hair in the bathroom, a smudged mirror, or a coffee ring on the counter can trigger a negative review. This checklist ensures every turnover meets 5-star standards.
- 1
Strip and remake all beds with fresh linens
Hospital corners, pillows fluffed and symmetrical, comforter smooth. Guests judge cleanliness by the bed first.
- 2
Sanitize all bathroom surfaces
Toilet (every surface), shower, tub, sink, mirror, faucets. Use commercial disinfectant and let it sit for full contact time.
- 3
Restock all bathroom amenities
Fresh towels (rolled or folded to standard), toilet paper (folded tip), soap, shampoo, and any extras your listing promises.
- 4
Deep clean the kitchen
All counters, stovetop, inside microwave, inside oven if used, inside fridge if used. Check for previous guest food and remove.
- 5
Run and empty the dishwasher
All dishes must be clean and put away. Guests should open cabinets to clean, organized dishware.
- 6
Check all drawers and closets for previous guest items
Lost items left behind make your listing look sloppy. Check every drawer, closet, and under-furniture space.
- 7
Vacuum all floors thoroughly
Every room, under furniture where possible, and along all edges. Use the crevice tool in tight spaces.
- 8
Mop all hard floors
Kitchen, bathroom, and any hard flooring throughout. Guests walk barefoot and feel dirty floors instantly.
- 9
Wipe all surfaces and remove fingerprints
Light switches, door handles, remote controls, thermostats, and any surface guests will touch.
- 10
Clean windows and mirrors
Fingerprints on glass are immediately visible. Clean every glass surface guests can see.
- 11
Take out all trash and replace liners
Every trash can empty with a fresh liner. Check outdoor bins too.
- 12
Set the scene: presentation details
Adjust thermostat, turn on key lights, open or close blinds to standard, leave welcome note, and do a final walkthrough from the front door.
Bottom Line
Five-star Airbnb reviews are built on cleaning consistency. Every turnover must be identical -- no shortcuts, no missed spots. Invest in commercial cleaning products and a standardized checklist to protect your listing's reputation and income.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should an Airbnb turnover cleaning take?
Should I hire professional cleaners for my Airbnb?
What cleaning supplies should every Airbnb have stocked?
What do Airbnb guests complain about most regarding cleanliness?
How do I maintain cleaning consistency across multiple turnovers?
Need Cleaning Supplies?
Soap-Man carries commercial-grade cleaning products at bulk pricing. Better products, better results, better value.