Airbnb cleaning: 5 biggest mistakes you should always avoid

Airbnb guests demand a high level of cleanliness when it comes to the properties they book. Based on MadeComfy's data analysis of 1,300 guest reviews on properties we manage, 51% of guests list cleanliness as their top priority for Airbnb properties.

Even the most diligent cleaning teams can’t catch everything. Some spots in your property tend to get overlooked and can become grime magnets. These hidden areas can be a surprise for your guests and make your property less than perfect.

Most common Airbnb cleaning concerns

As an experienced Airbnb management company, MadeComfy has accumulated a great deal of insights into the most crucial areas of focus for Airbnb cleaning. Let us take a look at the five most common Airbnb cleaning concerns:

Appliances

Most guests don’t bake or cook fancy meals during their stay, so it’s easy to miss that dirty oven or grill when they do. Always check if appliances like the microwave, oven, toaster, or grill have been stained after a rare bake-off or grill session. The fridge is a sensitive area too, so don't lower your standards to save time when cleaning it.

Outdoor areas

Enhance your guests’ experience with your property’s outdoor features. Think gardens, patios, balconies, courtyards, outdoor dining areas, and BBQ facilities. These elements add value to your Airbnb, but they can get dirty from the weather. No one wants to book a property with a pool or outdoor dining area and find it’s too dirty to enjoy. Make sure these areas are kept clean and inviting.

Pests

Pests are a common occurrence in Australia, and most guests know they’re a bit of a nuisance. But as a host, it’s your job to keep your guests safe from them. Take a look at all the areas you can control and make sure they’re free from pests. Check every corner of your property, especially if you think insects might live there. And if your guests find anything really gross, don’t hesitate to call pest control. We suggest getting a regular pest inspection every six months to keep things under control.

Amenities

If you forget to replace toiletries like soap, shampoo, or toilet paper, your guests will most likely complain. Now, people expect these essentials to be there. If you go the extra mile and provide extra amenities or high-quality brands, your guests will notice and you’ll get a great review. Make a checklist for yourself or your cleaning team to make sure everything is replaced and in the right place.

Hair

Hair can be a real pain in the neck when it comes to Airbnb reviews. Whether it’s on the linens, in the shower, or on the sink, any trace of it can be seen as a sign of neglect by the host. So, it’s important to keep your place clean, tidy, and hair-free.

Extra tip: always sort the bin

Always take care of the bin removal. With all the guests coming and going, it’s crucial to make sure the bin is emptied regularly so that everyone can leave your property feeling comfortable.

Keep a cleaning checklist

Whether you’re cleaning the place yourself or hiring a cleaning crew, it’s a great idea to have a checklist that covers everything you need to do.

Having a checklist, whether digital or handwritten, is a great way to keep track of your property and make sure everything’s in order. It also helps you avoid mistakes and gives you a sense of security. Plus, schedule a regular deep cleaning session every few weeks to focus on the areas that need the most attention. Pro tip: ask for a photo report after every cleaning session.

Expert housekeeping with MadeComfy

There are important things to keep in mind when cleaning your Airbnb listings. If you make a single mistake, it could damage your listings for the long run. It’s a good idea to hire a professional property management company that’s experienced in Airbnb cleaning. They’ll make sure your listings look their best every time.

At MadeComfy, our 50+ housekeeping staff works professionally using a digital housekeeping app. After every property clean, our expert staff sends an average of 40 property photos. These are reviewed and approved by the Quality Control and Housekeeping Manager in our headquarters to make sure every cleaning job meets our quality requirements.

Boost your Airbnb bookings with impeccable cleanliness! CONTACT US at MadeComfy today!