The Ultimate Airbnb Cleaning Checklist: Professional Turnover Guide

Why Cleanliness Is Non-Negotiable

Cleanliness is the #1 factor in guest reviews. A single hair in the bathroom or dust on a shelf can turn a 5-star stay into a 3-star review.

Professional cleaners use systematic checklists to ensure nothing is missed. Here's the exact checklist we recommend.

Pre-Cleaning Setup

Before starting:

• [ ] Take "before" photos of any damage
• [ ] Check for left-behind items
• [ ] Report any maintenance issues
• [ ] Open windows for ventilation
• [ ] Gather all cleaning supplies

Kitchen Checklist

Appliances

• [ ] Clean inside microwave (remove turntable, wash)
• [ ] Wipe down exterior of all appliances
• [ ] Clean inside oven (weekly deep clean)
• [ ] Clean refrigerator interior and exterior
• [ ] Run dishwasher empty with cleaner (weekly)
• [ ] Clean coffee maker (run vinegar cycle weekly)
• [ ] Wipe down toaster and remove crumbs

Surfaces

• [ ] Sanitize all countertops
• [ ] Clean backsplash
• [ ] Wipe down cabinet fronts
• [ ] Clean sink and faucet (polish)
• [ ] Sanitize garbage disposal

Dishes & Utensils

• [ ] Wash all dishes (even if clean-looking)
• [ ] Check all utensils are present
• [ ] Organize cabinets neatly
• [ ] Replace any damaged items

Restocking

• [ ] Dish soap
• [ ] Dishwasher pods
• [ ] Paper towels
• [ ] Trash bags
• [ ] Coffee, tea, sugar
• [ ] Salt, pepper, cooking oil
• [ ] Sponges (replace each turnover)

Bathroom Checklist

Fixtures

• [ ] Scrub toilet inside and out
• [ ] Clean toilet base and behind
• [ ] Scrub shower/tub thoroughly
• [ ] Clean shower door/curtain
• [ ] Sanitize sink and faucet
• [ ] Polish mirrors (streak-free)
• [ ] Clean exhaust fan

Surfaces

• [ ] Wipe down countertops
• [ ] Clean cabinet fronts
• [ ] Sanitize light switches
• [ ] Wipe down towel bars
• [ ] Clean baseboards

Linens & Supplies

• [ ] Fresh towels (folded hotel-style)
• [ ] Fresh bath mat
• [ ] New toilet paper (fold end)
• [ ] Backup toilet paper visible
• [ ] Toiletries restocked
• [ ] Trash can with fresh liner

Bedroom Checklist

Bed

• [ ] Strip all bedding
• [ ] Check mattress protector (replace if stained)
• [ ] Fresh sheets (hospital corners)
• [ ] Fresh pillowcases
• [ ] Arrange pillows symmetrically
• [ ] Fresh duvet cover
• [ ] Fold extra blanket at foot of bed

Surfaces

• [ ] Dust all furniture
• [ ] Clean nightstand tops
• [ ] Wipe down dresser
• [ ] Clean mirrors
• [ ] Dust lamp shades
• [ ] Clean light switches

Closet

• [ ] Check for left items
• [ ] Organize hangers (all same direction)
• [ ] Dust shelves
• [ ] Check iron and ironing board
• [ ] Extra pillows/blankets folded neatly

Living Room Checklist

Furniture

• [ ] Vacuum all upholstery
• [ ] Check under cushions
• [ ] Fluff and arrange pillows
• [ ] Dust all surfaces
• [ ] Clean coffee table
• [ ] Wipe down TV screen

Electronics

• [ ] Test TV and remotes
• [ ] Replace remote batteries if needed
• [ ] Organize cords neatly
• [ ] Check WiFi is working

General

• [ ] Vacuum/mop floors
• [ ] Clean windows (inside)
• [ ] Dust blinds/curtains
• [ ] Clean light fixtures
• [ ] Empty and clean trash cans

Final Walkthrough

Visual Check

• [ ] All lights working
• [ ] No visible dust or debris
• [ ] All surfaces streak-free
• [ ] Pleasant smell (not overwhelming)
• [ ] Temperature set correctly
• [ ] Blinds/curtains positioned nicely

Functional Check

• [ ] All doors lock properly
• [ ] Smart lock code updated
• [ ] Thermostat set correctly
• [ ] All appliances working
• [ ] WiFi connected and fast

Photo Documentation

• [ ] Take "after" photos
• [ ] Document any issues found
• [ ] Report to host/manager

Pro Tips

1. Work top to bottom - Dust falls down 2. Work left to right - Never miss a spot 3. Use the right products - Different surfaces need different cleaners 4. Replace, don't just clean - Some items should be new each guest 5. Time yourself - Consistency comes from routine

Recommended Cleaning Supplies

• All-purpose cleaner
• Glass cleaner
• Bathroom disinfectant
• Stainless steel cleaner
• Microfiber cloths (color-coded)
• Scrub brushes
• Vacuum with attachments
• Mop and bucket
• Rubber gloves
• Trash bags