A Step-by-Step Cleaning Checklist for Short-Term Rentals

When managing a short-term rental, cleanliness is among the most critical factors influencing guest satisfaction and reviews.

A well-maintained and spotless space can lead to repeat bookings, positive reviews, and higher occupancy rates. On the other hand, even minor lapses in cleanliness can lead to negative feedback that harms your business.

To ensure your rental is always in top condition, having a structured cleaning routine is essential.

This guide provides a comprehensive step-by-step checklist to help you efficiently clean your short-term rental and maintain a high standard for every guest.

Pre-Cleaning Preparation

Before diving into the cleaning process, take a few preparatory steps to streamline your workflow:

Gather Cleaning Supplies – Stock up on essential cleaning materials, including disinfectant sprays, glass cleaners, microfiber cloths, trash bags, mops, brooms, and vacuum cleaners.
Inspect for Damage and Missing Items – Check for broken appliances, damaged furniture, or missing items that need replacing before the next guest arrives.
Ventilate the Space – Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate and remove any lingering odors.
Check Inventory Levels – Ensure that essentials such as toilet paper, paper towels, and toiletries are adequately stocked.

Step 1: Entryway & Living Area

The entrance and living area are the first impressions guests will have, so keeping these spaces spotless is crucial.

Floors: Vacuum and mop hard floors, ensuring no dirt or debris is left behind.
Dusting: Wipe down all surfaces, including tables, shelves, and decorative pieces.
High-Touch Surfaces: Disinfect doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, and other frequently touched items.
Furniture & Upholstery: Wipe down leather or wooden furniture and vacuum fabric sofas and chairs.
Declutter: Remove any unnecessary items left behind by previous guests.
Windows & Mirrors: Clean glass surfaces to eliminate smudges and fingerprints.
Check for Personal Items: Ensure no previous guests have left behind any belongings.

Step 2: Kitchen

A clean and well-organized kitchen is essential for guest comfort and health.

Dishes & Utensils: Wash all used dishes and empty the dishwasher.
Countertops & Surfaces: Wipe down and disinfect all surfaces, including cabinets and backsplashes.
Appliances: Clean inside and outside of the microwave, oven, and refrigerator.
Sink & Faucet: Scrub and disinfect the sink and faucet area to remove grime.
Trash Disposal: Empty the trash, replace liners, and clean the trash can if necessary.
Floor: Sweep and mop the floor, ensuring no food particles are left behind.

Read This: What Makes a Short-Term Rental Profitable?

Step 3: Bedrooms

Guests expect fresh and clean sleeping spaces, so focus on these key areas:

Bed Linens: Strip the bed, and replace it with fresh sheets, and fluff pillows.
Dusting: Dust all surfaces, including nightstands, headboards, and lamps.
Floor Cleaning: Vacuum carpets or sweep and mop hard flooring.
Check Under Beds: Ensure no personal items or dust buildup under beds and furniture.
Closet & Drawers: Organize and check for any leftover items from previous guests.
Lighting & Decor: Ensure all lamps work properly and straighten any artwork or decorations.

Step 4: Bathrooms

Bathrooms are one of the most scrutinized areas by guests, so thorough cleaning is necessary.

Toilets: Scrub inside the bowl and disinfect the toilet seat and exterior.
Sink & Countertops: Wipe down and disinfect sinks, faucets, and counters.
Showers & Bathtubs: Remove soap scum, clean glass doors, and check for mold.
Mirrors & Glass: Use a streak-free cleaner to wipe down mirrors and glass surfaces.
Replace Essentials: Restock toiletries like shampoo, soap, and toilet paper.
Trash: Empty and disinfect the trash bin.
Floors: Sweep and mop with disinfectant to remove bacteria and dirt.

Step 5: Outdoor Spaces (If Applicable)

If your rental has a balcony, patio, or garden, ensure these areas are presentable and clean.

Sweep & Remove Debris: Clear away dirt, leaves, and other debris.
Outdoor Furniture: Wipe down tables and chairs, checking for dust and stains.
Trash & Litter: Dispose of any garbage and replace outdoor trash bags.
Check Lighting: Ensure outdoor lights are functional and replace bulbs if necessary.

After completing the core cleaning tasks, add the finishing touches to make the space feel welcoming and fresh:

Air Freshening: Use a neutral air freshener or let in fresh air.
Temperature Adjustment: Set the thermostat to a comfortable level.
Welcome Items: Provide snacks, water bottles, or a guest book with helpful information.
Final Walkthrough: Double-check every room, ensuring no area has been overlooked.
Take Photos: Document the space for reference before new guests arrive.

Conclusion

Maintaining a spotless short-term rental is crucial for providing an excellent guest experience, earning positive reviews, and ensuring repeat bookings. By following this structured cleaning checklist, you can streamline the process and maintain high cleanliness standards effortlessly.

Implementing a consistent cleaning routine not only saves time but also enhances guest satisfaction, leading to a more successful and profitable short-term rental business. With attention to detail and a commitment to cleanliness, your rental will stand out as a top choice for travelers looking for a comfortable and hygienic stay.