Running an Airbnb or short-term rental takes more than just listing your property and welcoming guests—it requires consistent upkeep and attention to detail. Even with professional cleanings between stays, there are steps hosts can take to keep their properties fresh, organized, and inviting. Staying on top of maintenance not only helps prevent last-minute issues but also ensures guests enjoy a smooth, comfortable experience every time. Here are five practical ways to keep your Airbnb guest-ready between professional cleanings.
1. Establish a Simple Daily Maintenance Routine
A few minutes of upkeep each day can make a big difference in maintaining your property’s cleanliness. For hosts managing multiple bookings or longer stays, light maintenance between guest departures can prevent grime and clutter from building up.
- Wipe down high-touch surfaces: Focus on doorknobs, counters, and light switches to prevent fingerprints and germs from accumulating.
- Tidy common areas: Straighten pillows, fold blankets, and ensure decor items are properly arranged.
- Check for small messes: Quick spot cleaning can save time during your next deep clean.
- Sweep or vacuum floors: Keeping floors free of debris makes the space look instantly cleaner and more cared for.
Small habits like these help maintain that just-cleaned look longer and make turnovers faster and easier when your cleaning crew arrives.
2. Keep Cleaning Supplies Stocked and Accessible
Even the best cleaning team can’t prevent every small spill or accident that happens between stays. By keeping essential supplies on hand, you or your guests can easily address messes as they occur. Consider stocking the following items:
- All-purpose cleaner and disinfecting wipes
- Glass cleaner and paper towels
- Extra trash bags and liners
- A handheld vacuum or broom and dustpan
- Laundry detergent and stain remover
For longer-term guests, having these supplies available also encourages them to maintain cleanliness during their stay—resulting in less work between check-outs.
3. Regularly Inspect High-Traffic and High-Use Areas
Certain parts of your property experience more wear and tear than others. By checking these areas frequently, you can prevent small issues from becoming big problems.
- Bathrooms: Inspect grout, caulking, and plumbing fixtures for buildup or leaks. Replace towels and restock toiletries regularly.
- Kitchen: Wipe down appliances and check for leftover food in the fridge or pantry. Make sure dishes and utensils are clean and organized.
- Floors and carpets: Address stains or scuffs immediately before they set in.
- Outdoor spaces: Sweep patios, clean furniture, and remove leaves or debris.
Frequent inspections not only keep your Airbnb clean but also show guests that you take pride in maintaining your space.
4. Refresh Linens and Soft Surfaces Often
Nothing says “fresh and inviting” like crisp linens and clean fabrics. Even between professional cleanings, hosts can take steps to keep bedding, towels, and upholstery smelling and feeling new.
- Rotate linens: Have multiple sets of sheets and towels on hand to easily replace used ones.
- Air out bedding: Open windows to let fresh air circulate, helping to remove odors and moisture.
- Use fabric sprays or odor eliminators: A light mist on furniture, curtains, and rugs can keep your space smelling pleasant.
- Spot clean upholstery: Address spills or stains immediately with appropriate cleaners.
Maintaining fresh linens not only improves guest comfort but also extends the lifespan of your fabrics—saving you money over time.
5. Check and Replenish Guest Essentials
Part of what separates a great Airbnb from a mediocre one is attention to detail. Guests appreciate when hosts go the extra mile to make their stay convenient and comfortable. Between professional cleanings, always make sure the following essentials are stocked and ready:
- Toilet paper and paper towels
- Hand soap and dish soap
- Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
- Coffee, tea, and basic condiments
- Fresh trash bags and cleaning wipes
Even simple touches like a small welcome note or a bottle of water can leave a lasting impression. Regularly replenishing supplies ensures every guest enjoys the same level of care and hospitality.
Bonus Tip: Schedule Consistent Professional Cleanings
While small maintenance tasks go a long way, professional cleaning is still essential for maintaining your Airbnb’s five-star appeal. A professional cleaning company like Smiley’s Cleaning Services in Charlotte, NC, ensures every turnover is spotless, sanitized, and guest-ready. Our trained team handles the deep cleaning, disinfecting, and restocking, so you can focus on hosting and growing your business.
We understand the fast-paced nature of short-term rentals, which is why we offer flexible scheduling and quick turnarounds. Whether you manage one property or several, Smiley’s ensures consistency, reliability, and quality you can count on.
Create a Lasting Guest Experience
Keeping your Airbnb guest-ready between cleanings isn’t just about maintaining appearances—it’s about providing a memorable experience that leads to glowing reviews and repeat bookings. Small, consistent efforts add up to big results. When guests feel welcomed into a clean, comfortable, and well-maintained space, they’re more likely to leave positive feedback and recommend your property to others.
By combining regular maintenance with professional cleaning services, you’ll ensure your rental always looks its best and delivers an exceptional guest experience.
Contact Smiley’s Cleaning Services today to learn more about our Charlotte Airbnb and short-term rental cleaning solutions—and keep your property guest-ready year-round.