As an Airbnb host, your listing is your business. And cleanliness is something that can make or break your business. Whether you're managing one cozy studio or a network of vacation rentals, having reliable cleaning services for Airbnb can be the difference between a glowing review and a disappointing one-star rant.
Now we know that cleaning services aren't always as simple or cost-effective as they seem. Hidden fees, rushed jobs, and inconsistent quality can sneak up and affect your bottom line. That’s why this blog is your guide to understanding the hidden costs behind cleaning services for Airbnb, how to avoid them, and how to maximize value with smart strategies.
The Real Cost of Cleanliness: What Airbnb Hosts Often Overlook
When you hire cleaning services for Airbnb, the base fee is just the beginning. Here are some hidden or unexpected costs to watch out for:
1. Last-Minute Booking Fees
Need a quick turnaround? Many services charge a premium for last-minute or same-day cleanings. This can add up fast, especially during peak season.
2. Linens and Laundry Charges
Some cleaning services don't include washing bed linens or towels in their standard packages. That means extra laundry fees or, worse, complaints from guests about stale sheets.
3. Restocking Essentials
Toiletries, coffee pods, dish soap - all these add up. If your cleaner restocks them for you, they may mark up the price or charge a service fee.
4. Damage Reporting
A good cleaning service should report damages or theft immediately. If they don’t, you could miss your window to file a claim through Airbnb.
5. Extended Cleaning for Long-Term Guests
Long stays can mean deeper dirt. If your service charges extra for deep cleans, this could mean unexpected costs between long-term bookings.
Smart Saves: How to Keep Your Cleaning Costs Under Control
You must not always feel like it is burning a hole in your pocket. Here are some intelligent methods to cut costs without lowering expectations.
1. Bundle Services or Set Up Recurring Schedules
Many companies offer discounts for recurring cleanings or bundled services like cleaning + laundry + restocking. It creates consistency and saves cash.
2. Create a Clear Cleaning Checklist
Avoid "that’s not included" excuses by having a detailed checklist. Outline everything from dusting baseboards to folding toilet paper ends. It sets expectations and avoids surprise charges.
3. Supply Your Own Products
If your cleaner uses your supplies, you can save money and ensure everything is eco-friendly or guest-approved. Just ensure that you keep stock in check.
4. Conduct Regular Quality Checks
Randomly inspecting your property after cleanings helps maintain standards and lets you catch corners being cut before reviews are affected.
5. Automate Scheduling with Turnover Apps
Platforms like Turno or Properly connect directly with your Airbnb calendar and help automate scheduling, communicate expectations, and keep things streamlined.
Pro Tips: What Top Airbnb Hosts Do Differently
Experienced hosts have learned a few tricks of the trade that help elevate their operations. Here are their secrets:
1. Offer Cleaning Incentives
Small bonuses for perfect reviews or photo-worthy setups (like a beautifully made bed) may motivate cleaners to do their best.
2. Use Guest Feedback to Improve Cleaning Routines
If multiple guests mention dusty blinds or missed corners, include it in your standard checklist. Guests often notice things that cleaners overlook.
3. Invest in Easy-to-Clean Furnishings
Leather couches, machine-washable rugs, and easy-wipe surfaces can cut cleaning time and reduce the need for specialty services.
4. Train Your Cleaners on Guest Expectations
Airbnb guests expect a hotel-level clean. Make sure your cleaners understand the difference between tidy and pristine. Walk them through guest-ready touches like folded towels, fresh scents, or a personalized welcome card.
When to Upgrade to Professional Cleaning Services for Airbnb?
As your hosting business grows, so do your needs. Here’s when you should consider switching from DIY or ad-hoc cleaners to a full-service professional Airbnb cleaning team:
- You have more than 2 properties
- Your schedule is too tight to manage cleanings
- Guest complaints about cleanliness are increasing
- You're starting to offer same-day check-ins
- You want to scale your Airbnb business
Professional services often come with:
- Insurance and liability coverage
- Background-checked staff
- Digital scheduling and communication tools
- Checklists and photo confirmations
It may seem pricier upfront, but the peace of mind (and saved time) often pays for itself.
Cleaning Fee Strategy: How to Set It Right on Airbnb
Another part of your cleaning cost strategy is how you charge it to guests. Hera are some useful tips:
-
Be Transparent
Break down the cleaning fee in your listing description. -
Avoid Overcharging
A high cleaning fee can deter short-stay bookings. -
Factor In Frequency
For short stays, a lower fee makes sense. For longer ones, a higher fee may be justified. -
Revisit Regularly
Update fees based on cleaner rates, inflation, and service upgrades.
Some hosts build cleaning costs into their nightly rate instead, which helps avoid sticker shock at checkout.
Final Thoughts: Clean Spaces, Clean Reputation
At the end of the day, cleaning services for Airbnb are an investment in your brand. A spotless space is nice-to-have. By being aware of hidden costs, implementing above tips & treating your cleaners like the professionals they are, you can deliver that "wow" moment every guest deserves.
A clean Airbnb is more than a task. It's a promise. And with the right system in place, it's a promise you can keep profitably.
