5-Star Airbnb Cleaning Tips for Hosts Who Want Repeat Bookings

As an Airbnb host, your success depends on more than just a well-decorated space or prime location. Cleanliness plays a huge role in how guests rate their stay and whether they choose to return—or recommend your listing to others. With thousands of Airbnb listings competing for attention, ensuring a sparkling-clean environment can set you apart and lead to repeat bookings, glowing reviews, and Superhost status.

In this guide, we’ll explore 5-star Airbnb cleaning tips that will impress your guests, boost your reputation, and keep your calendar booked solid.

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Why Cleanliness Matters So Much on Airbnb

Airbnb guests expect hotel-like cleanliness when they walk through your door. A spotless space signals safety, care, and professionalism—especially in a post-pandemic world where hygiene is more important than ever. One small oversight (like a stray hair in the bathroom or crumbs in the kitchen) can result in a poor review, no matter how amazing the rest of the experience was.

Clean spaces build trust, make guests feel at home, and encourage them to come back—and that’s the foundation of a profitable Airbnb hosting business.

Understand Airbnb’s Enhanced Cleaning Protocol

Before diving into tips, it’s important to note that Airbnb has an official Enhanced Cleaning Protocol that hosts are encouraged (and in many cases required) to follow. This five-step process includes:

Prepare: Ventilate the space and gather your cleaning supplies.
Clean: Remove dust and dirt from all surfaces.
Sanitize: Use approved disinfectants on high-touch areas.
Check: Review the space room by room.
Reset: Replace supplies and prepare for the next guest.

Sticking to this protocol not only ensures safety—it also boosts your credibility on the platform.

Top Airbnb Cleaning Tips to Impress Guests

Let’s now break down the most important strategies and routines that lead to spotless results and 5-star reviews.

Always Follow a Consistent, Room-by-Room Routine

Instead of jumping randomly between tasks or rooms, adopt a room-by-room cleaning checklist to ensure nothing gets overlooked. Start at the entrance and work your way systematically through the entire property—bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen, living areas, and any outdoor spaces. This keeps you organized and ensures each area meets the same high standards.

Pay Special Attention to High-Touch Surfaces

Guests are more conscious than ever about hygiene. Always disinfect high-touch surfaces, including:

Light switches
Doorknobs and handles
Remote controls
Cabinet handles
Faucets and toilet flush levers
Thermostats and keypads

Use disinfectants approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or local health authorities, and let them sit for the recommended time before wiping.

Wash All Linens — Not Just the Obvious Ones

Never assume a blanket or pillow hasn’t been used just because it looks folded. Guests often use extra linens or lie on top of bedspreads. Always wash all sheets, comforters, duvet covers, mattress protectors, pillowcases, and throw blankets between each stay.

Using crisp white linens can also boost the sense of cleanliness—hotel-style.

Deep Clean the Bathroom Like Your Rating Depends on It (Because It Does)

The bathroom is often the first place guests inspect—and the easiest place to lose stars. Make sure to:

Scrub the toilet, including the base and behind the seat.
Remove hair from drains, corners, and shower walls.
Shine mirrors and glass surfaces until streak-free.
Disinfect handles, soap dishes, and towel holders.
Stock with fresh towels, toilet paper, hand soap, and toiletries.

A pristine, hotel-grade bathroom sets the tone for the rest of the guest experience.

Clean the Kitchen As If You’ll Be Cooking There

Even if your guests don’t cook, the kitchen must be spotless. Clean:

Inside the microwave, fridge, and oven
Under and around appliances
All counters and cabinet doors
Sink, faucet, and drain
Dishes, utensils, and cooking tools

Empty the trash and replace the liner. Make sure pantry items are sealed and labeled, and that nothing is expired or used.

Don’t Forget Floors, Baseboards, and Corners

Dust, crumbs, and pet hair tend to collect in baseboards, under beds, and behind furniture. Vacuum thoroughly and mop all hard surfaces, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. Spot-clean carpets between deep cleans. Investing in a robot vacuum can help maintain floors between guest stays if you host often.

Use Natural Scents and Avoid Strong Fragrances

Guests associate certain smells with cleanliness. Open windows to allow fresh air in, and use natural odor neutralizers like baking soda or charcoal air purifiers. Avoid overpowering synthetic sprays—some guests are allergic or sensitive to them. A mild citrus or eucalyptus essential oil diffuser is often a safe, refreshing choice.

Keep Cleaning Supplies Stocked for Guests

Even if you clean thoroughly between stays, guests appreciate having access to basic supplies like:

All-purpose cleaner
Disinfecting wipes
Broom and dustpan
Trash bags
Paper towels

This empowers guests to maintain the space and gives the impression that you care about their experience.

Perform Monthly Deep Cleans

In addition to your regular routine, schedule monthly deep cleans where you:

Wash windows and screens
Clean air filters and vents
Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures
Wipe down walls and baseboards
Check for mold or mildew
Rotate and vacuum under furniture

This helps maintain your property’s long-term condition and shows guests you take cleanliness seriously.

Consider Hiring a Professional Cleaning Service

If managing turnovers becomes overwhelming or time-consuming, consider partnering with a professional Airbnb cleaning service. Look for companies that specialize in vacation rentals and understand the Enhanced Cleaning Protocol. Outsourcing cleaning can help you scale while maintaining consistency and quality.

Pro Tips for a 5-Star Presentation

Cleaning isn’t just about removing dirt—it’s also about presentation. Here are some simple steps that can elevate your listing and impress guests the moment they arrive.

Leave a “Freshly Cleaned” Touch

Neatly folding towels, fluffing pillows, placing a lavender sachet in the closet, or leaving a welcome card can all create a sense of fresh hospitality. Guests appreciate these small signals that the space was just prepared for them.

Add Final Touches After Cleaning

Once the deep clean is done, take a moment to walk through the space with a guest’s eyes. Open the blinds to let in natural light. Straighten items on counters. Check for any missed smudges on mirrors or glass. These finishing touches help transform a clean space into a polished one.

Encourage Feedback and Update Based on It

Ask guests to let you know if there’s anything they think could have been cleaner. Constructive feedback helps you improve your process and prevent negative public reviews. Use these insights to build a stronger cleaning checklist over time.

Common Cleaning Mistakes That Can Cost You Stars

Avoid these common pitfalls that can sabotage your rating:

Ignoring smells: Lingering food odors, musty towels, or strong cleaners can leave a bad impression.
Missing under-the-radar items: Don’t forget to clean behind the toilet, under the couch cushions, or on top of the fridge.
Using dirty or stained linens: Always check for stains—even clean sheets with marks can look unwashed.
Rushing turnovers: Allow enough time between check-out and check-in to do a thorough job.
Overlooking outdoor areas: Clean patios, balconies, and doorsteps too.

Final Thoughts: Cleanliness Is the Fastest Way to Better Reviews

In the world of Airbnb hosting, cleanliness isn’t optional—it’s essential. A spotless property shows guests that you care, increases the likelihood of 5-star reviews, and positions your listing for repeat bookings. Whether you’re managing a single unit or multiple properties, implementing a detailed cleaning routine and prioritizing hygiene is the smartest investment you can make in your hosting success.

Ready to Elevate Your Hosting Game?

Start by revising your cleaning checklist today and evaluate your space with fresh eyes. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider outsourcing to a trusted Airbnb cleaning service. With consistent effort and attention to detail, you’ll soon be rewarded with glowing reviews, loyal guests, and a calendar full of bookings.

Want more tips on how to grow your Airbnb business, boost guest satisfaction, and increase revenue? Stay tuned to our blog for hosting guides, marketing strategies, and insider insights from top hosts!