Eco-Friendly Cleaning Tips for Short-Term Rentals

Short-term rentals have become an increasingly popular choice for travelers seeking a more personalized and comfortable stay compared to traditional hotels.

Whether you own an Airbnb, vacation rental, or a guest house, maintaining a clean and welcoming space is crucial to securing positive reviews and repeat bookings.

However, the way you clean your rental property can have a significant impact on both the environment and your guests’ health.

Eco-friendly cleaning practices are not just a trend; they are essential for reducing harmful chemical exposure, minimizing waste, and promoting sustainability.

By switching to green cleaning methods, you can contribute to a healthier planet while providing a safe and fresh environment for your guests.

1. Choose Green Cleaning Products

One of the simplest yet most impactful steps toward sustainable cleaning is using eco-friendly products. Many commercial cleaning agents contain harsh chemicals like ammonia, chlorine, and phthalates, which can cause respiratory issues, skin irritation, and environmental pollution.

Benefits of Green Cleaning Products:

They are non-toxic and biodegradable.
Reduce indoor air pollution and chemical residue.
Safer for pets and guests with allergies or sensitivities.
Contribute to water conservation by reducing harmful runoff into the environment.

Recommended Eco-Friendly Cleaning Brands:

If you prefer ready-made products, consider brands known for their eco-conscious formulations. In Nigeria, some locally available green cleaning brands include:

Mama Lemon (biodegradable dishwashing liquid)
HomeFresh (plant-based multipurpose cleaner)
BambooClean (sustainable laundry detergent)

DIY Natural Cleaning Solutions:

For an even more sustainable approach, you can make your own cleaning solutions using simple ingredients:

All-Purpose Cleaner: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water with a few drops of essential oil.
Glass Cleaner: Combine 1 cup of water, 1 tablespoon of vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch.
Disinfectant Spray: Mix 2 cups of water, 1 tablespoon of baking soda, and 5 drops of tea tree oil.

2. Reduce Single-Use Plastic and Waste

Plastic waste is a significant environmental concern, and traditional cleaning methods often rely on disposable products. By reducing single-use plastics, you can make a substantial difference.

Sustainable Cleaning Swaps:

Replace paper towels with microfiber cloths – These can be washed and reused multiple times.
Use refillable glass or BPA-free plastic bottles – Instead of purchasing new spray bottles, refill old ones.
Avoid disposable mop pads – Opt for a reusable microfiber mop head instead.

Encourage Recycling in Your Rental:

Providing labelled bins for recycling can help guests dispose of waste responsibly. You can have separate bins for:

Plastic bottles and containers
Glass bottles
Paper and cardboard
Organic waste (if composting is available)

By making it easy for guests to recycle, you encourage responsible waste management while keeping your rental clean.

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3. Save Water and Energy While Cleaning

Water and energy conservation are key components of an eco-friendly cleaning routine. Small changes in how you clean can lead to significant savings.

Water-Saving Tips:

Use a bucket instead of running water when mopping floors.
Fix leaks and drips in your rental to prevent water wastage.
Use cold water for cleaning whenever possible to reduce energy consumption.

Energy-Efficient Cleaning Methods:

Opt for energy-efficient vacuum cleaners and steam mops – These use less power while providing deep cleaning.
Air-dry linens and towels instead of using a dryer, especially in Nigeria’s warm climate.
Turn off appliances when not in use to save electricity.

4. Opt for Sustainable Laundry Practices

Short-term rentals require frequent laundry cycles for bed linens, towels, and cleaning cloths. However, traditional laundry practices consume excessive water and energy.

Eco-Friendly Laundry Tips:

Wash full loads only – This reduces the number of cycles and saves water.
Use cold water when possible – Most detergents work well in cold water, and it saves energy.
Choose natural fabric softeners – White vinegar is an excellent alternative to chemical-based softeners.

Reduce Laundry Waste:

Provide guests with reusable towels instead of single-use paper towels.
Use biodegradable detergent and washing powders.
Encourage guests to reuse towels instead of requesting fresh ones daily.

5. Improve Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality is often overlooked, but it plays a crucial role in guest comfort. Many commercial cleaning sprays and air fresheners release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can cause headaches and respiratory issues.

Ways to Improve Air Quality Naturally:

Use essential oil diffusers instead of synthetic air fresheners.
Place indoor plants like aloe vera, peace lilies, and snake plants, which naturally purify the air.
Open windows daily to allow fresh air circulation.
Use activated charcoal bags to absorb odours and toxins.

Read This: What You Need to Know About Paying Taxes on Short-Term Rentals

6. Sustainable Waste Disposal

Proper waste disposal is a fundamental part of an eco-friendly cleaning routine. By managing waste responsibly, you can prevent pollution and promote sustainability.

Eco-Friendly Waste Management Practices:

Compost food scraps if you have a garden or access to a composting facility.
Use biodegradable trash bags instead of traditional plastic ones.
Partner with local recycling services to dispose of plastic, glass, and metal waste responsibly.

If composting is not an option, encourage guests to minimize food waste by only preparing what they can eat.

7. Educate Cleaning Staff and Guests

Sustainability should be a shared effort. Educating both cleaning staff and guests on eco-friendly practices ensures long-term success.

Train Cleaning Staff on Green Practices:

Show them how to properly use eco-friendly cleaning products.
Encourage minimal water and electricity usage.
Emphasize the importance of waste separation and recycling.

Educate Guests Through Small Initiatives:

Include a welcome note with tips on reducing waste and saving energy during their stay.
Provide refillable toiletries instead of single-use plastic bottles.
Encourage reusable shopping bags by offering a few in the rental property.

By promoting sustainability, you enhance the guest experience while reducing your rental’s environmental footprint.

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Conclusion

Eco-friendly cleaning is not only beneficial for the environment but also improves the quality of your short-term rental.

By choosing green cleaning products, reducing plastic waste, conserving water and energy, and educating guests and staff, you can create a sustainable and welcoming space.

Making these small but impactful changes will not only help protect the planet but also appeal to environmentally conscious travellers, increasing your rental’s desirability and positive reviews.

Start implementing these eco-friendly cleaning tips today and contribute to a cleaner, greener future!

Do you already use any green cleaning methods in your short-term rental? Share your experiences in the comments below.