How to Hire a Reliable Cleaning Service for Your Rental

Keeping a rental property clean is essential for guest satisfaction, positive reviews, and repeat bookings.

Whether you own a short-term rental listed on Airbnb or a long-term rental property, hiring a reliable cleaning service ensures that your space remains in top condition. A professional cleaning service can save you time, reduce stress, and enhance the overall guest experience.

In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about hiring a reliable cleaning service for your rental property.

1. Define Your Cleaning Needs

Before hiring a cleaning service, it’s essential to understand your specific requirements. Different rental properties have varying cleaning needs, depending on their size, frequency of guests, and type of tenants.

Regular vs. Deep Cleaning Services

Regular Cleaning: Includes basic cleaning tasks such as vacuuming, dusting, wiping surfaces, and taking out the trash. Ideal for short-term rentals that require frequent turnovers.
Deep Cleaning: Involves more detailed work such as carpet shampooing, upholstery cleaning, and scrubbing tiles and grout. This is recommended periodically, especially after long-term tenants move out.

Frequency of Cleaning

After Every Guest Checkout: Essential for Airbnb and vacation rentals to maintain hygiene and high ratings.
Weekly Cleaning: Recommended for long-term rentals with common areas.
Monthly or Seasonal Cleaning: Deep cleaning services to maintain property condition.

Special Requirements

Eco-friendly Cleaning: If you prefer non-toxic, biodegradable cleaning products.
Laundry Services: If linens, towels, and curtains require washing after each guest.
Pet-Friendly Cleaning: Extra care for properties that allow pets, ensuring odor and pet hair removal.

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2. Set a Budget

Understanding how much you are willing to spend on cleaning services will help you find the right provider without compromising quality.

Factors Affecting Pricing

Location: Urban areas may have higher cleaning costs compared to rural locations.
Size of Property: A studio apartment costs less to clean than a five-bedroom house.
Type of Cleaning: Deep cleaning services are more expensive than regular maintenance cleaning.

Average Cleaning Costs

A standard one-bedroom Airbnb cleaning costs between $50 and $100.
Larger homes or deep cleaning services can cost $150 or more per session.

Tips for Cost-Effective Cleaning

Bundle services (e.g., combine laundry and cleaning for discounts).
Negotiate long-term contracts for better rates.
Compare multiple quotes to find the best value.

3. Research Cleaning Companies

Finding the right cleaning service requires thorough research. Look for providers with good reputations and experience in rental property cleaning.

Where to Find Cleaning Services

Online directories (e.g., Google My Business, Yelp, Thumbtack)
Referrals from other property owners
Facebook groups and online forums for landlords
Specialized Airbnb cleaning services that understand short-term rental needs

What to Look for in a Cleaning Service

Licensed and Insured: Ensures professionalism and protects against damages.
Experience with Rentals: Cleaners familiar with rental turnovers know what guests expect.
Flexible Scheduling: Ability to accommodate last-minute cleanings and quick turnovers.
Positive Reviews: High ratings and testimonials from satisfied clients.

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4. Ask the Right Questions

When interviewing potential cleaning services, ask key questions to gauge their reliability and professionalism.

Important Questions to Ask

What cleaning products do you use? (Eco-friendly options available?)
Do you bring your own supplies and equipment?
How do you handle last-minute cleaning requests?
Do you offer a satisfaction guarantee or refunds?
Are background checks performed on cleaners?

5. Request a Trial Cleaning

Before committing to a long-term contract, test the service with a trial cleaning.

Benefits of a Trial Cleaning

Assess cleanliness standards and attention to detail.
Test punctuality and reliability.
Evaluate communication and responsiveness.

How to Evaluate a Trial Cleaning

Inspect high-traffic areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
Check for overlooked details (e.g., dust in corners, streaks on glass).
Gather feedback from guests (if applicable).

6. Establish Clear Expectations

To avoid misunderstandings, clearly define expectations with your cleaning service.

Create a Cleaning Checklist

A checklist ensures consistency in cleaning. Example:

Vacuum and mop floors
Disinfect kitchen counters and appliances
Clean and sanitize bathrooms
Replace linens and toiletries
Remove trash and restock supplies

Set Communication Channels

Use scheduling apps (e.g., TurnoverBnB, Properly, or WhatsApp for updates)
Share guest check-in and check-out schedules
Provide feedback and special instructions

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7. Consider Hiring a Cleaning Service with Experience in Short-Term Rentals

Why Specialized Airbnb Cleaners Matter

They understand fast turnaround times and guest expectations.
Familiarity with damage checks (e.g., missing towels, broken items).
Expertise in staging (ensuring a welcoming presentation for new guests).

8. Sign a Service Agreement

A written contract protects both you and the cleaning service by outlining expectations and policies.

Key Elements of a Cleaning Contract

Scope of Work: Tasks covered in each cleaning session.
Payment Terms: Pricing, invoicing schedule, and payment methods.
Cancellation Policy: Notice required for cancellations and rescheduling.
Liability Clause: Coverage for accidental damage or missing items.

9. Monitor Performance and Make Adjustments

Once you hire a cleaning service, continuously assess their performance to ensure consistency.

Quality Control Measures

Perform random inspections to verify cleanliness.
Ask guests for feedback on cleanliness in reviews.
Address concerns promptly and provide constructive feedback.

When to Consider Changing Services

Frequent missed cleanings or delays.
Declining quality despite feedback.
Better pricing or services from competitors.

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Conclusion

Hiring a reliable cleaning service for your rental property is essential for maintaining a professional and welcoming environment.

By defining your cleaning needs, setting a budget, researching providers, and establishing clear expectations, you can ensure a seamless experience for both you and your guests.

A well-maintained rental not only attracts more bookings but also leads to higher ratings and better guest experiences. Take the time to find a cleaning service that aligns with your rental goals and watch your business thrive.