The importance of cleanliness in vacation homes

Keeping your vacation rental ready and spotless before welcoming guests is one of the most important aspects of your business. In this guide, we’ll cover all the important information you need to keep in mind to ensure optimal vacation rental cleaning measures so that everything is spotless, and your guests have a great experience using your services.

Why is vacation rental cleaning important?

It is essential that vacation rental cleaning and maintenance is a priority in the management of your daily activities. Guests will be uncompromising about the cleanliness of your property and will not hesitate to post their disappointment in reviews on your website or in your advertising if there is a problem. This can damage your reputation, cause a bad impression, lower your overall rating on booking platforms, and discourage some guests from booking with you.

On the other hand, if you offer good service and pay special attention to cleanliness, it is guaranteed that your guests will notice it and some of them will even point out the spotless cleanliness in their review at the end of their stay.

The motto you should follow above all else is to always leave enough time between guests so that your vacation rental is clean and tidy, and you have time to inspect it thoroughly.

3 ways to organize cleaning in vacation rentals

There are several options when it comes to organizing cleaning for vacation rentals. Either way, find out about different cleaning companies and ask for quotes and information about the type of service they offer.

Option 1: You handle the cleaning

You organize all the cleaning for the vacation rentals you own or manage. If you have the time and energy, you’ll save some money by doing it yourself.

Option 2: Hire professional vacation rental cleaning services

Don’t want to take on the complete cleaning of your property? No problem! You can hire professional cleaning services for routine vacation rental maintenance. A professional cleaning, for a fee, will provide you with quality service and make your future guests happy and take a load off your mind. You will easily find cleaning companies near you.

The cleaning company has some advantages for vacation rental owners: established structure, complete equipment, professionalism and exceptional cleaning procedures that guarantee total security.

If you use Smoobu and its vacation rental management software, you can connect with providers like Doinn, who will take care of your property’s cleaning protocols to ensure optimal hygienic conditions for your guests and also other tasks like laundry management.

Option 3: Use a private party (independent professional)

If you know or have been recommended someone who is experienced in house cleaning, don’t hesitate to call them and introduce them to your property and your expectations. Establishing a trusting relationship with your service providers is essential for the service to run smoothly.

How much does it cost to hire a vacation rental cleaning service?

Pricing varies from company to company and depends on the cleaning service (basic cleaning, maintenance cleaning, deep cleaning, spring cleaning, etc.) that you need. Ask different service providers about their cleaning rates and don’t hesitate to ask for a quote.

In any case, when you rent out your vacation rental on platforms like Airbnb, for example, cleaning fees may be added to the total amount sent to guests. So don’t skimp on the cleaning service done by professional cleaners, which, again, will make a difference and will be noticed and reflected in guests’ positive experiences at the end of their stay.

What cleaning equipment and products should I buy for my vacation rentals?

Whether you clean on your own or use an outside service provider, make sure you have the necessary equipment and disinfectant products to properly clean your property. Depending on the option you choose, you may have to provide the necessary cleaning equipment.

Cleaning products

• hoover
• broom
• shovel
• mop
• bucket
• trash bags
• brush
• sponges
• rags
• microfiber cleaning cloths
• multi-surface cleaner
• disinfectant
• baking soda/white vinegar/black soap

Give preference to natural, environmentally friendly cleaning products. Opting for green cleaning is always good for the planet and this approach is part of a greener rent, without abusing chemicals that are highly polluting and bad for your health. Check out Airbnb’s cleaning handbook for more tips on this.

Prepare a vacation rental cleaning protocol or a cleaning guide

To better keep track of the level of cleanliness of the property, it is essential to ensure optimal management of your vacation rental. Therefore, it is advisable to prepare a checklist or cleaning guide for your vacation rental. After all, you may not always be responsible for cleaning, your cleaning staff/suppliers may change, etc.

A clear and precise document is the key to success, such as outlining cleaning guidelines, discussing specific materials, avoiding possible damage, or ultimately helpful tips needed during the cleaning process. After each booking, the same cleaning process will be followed, bringing rigor, regularity and, most importantly, maximum cleanliness to your tourist accommodation.

Cleaning checklist

The bathroom

A small room but one that requires a lot of scrutiny and attention to detail:

• Washing and changing towels and bath mats.
• Cleaning and disinfecting the bathroom.
• Check toilet paper supplies and replenish as needed.
• Vacuum and mop the floor.
• Remove fingerprints from mirror and wash sink.
• Shower or bath.
• Refill shampoo/shower gel available.
• Empty trash can

Kitchen

This is a popular place for guests and therefore requires special attention:

• Run and empty the dishwasher.
• Clean the cooktops.
• Rinse and wash the sink.
• Wash and disinfect surfaces/drawer handles, cabinets, etc.
•  Check and clean electrical equipment (refrigerator, coffee maker, etc.).
• Provide clean rags.
• Wipe the floor.
• Empty the garbage can.

Bedrooms

• Remove sheets, pillowcases and wash bedding and replace with clean linens.
• Vacuum and mop the floor.
• Check for anything under the beds.

Living Room

• Clean and dust surfaces (tables, shelves).
• Dust and vacuum carpets.
• Vacuum and mop the floor.
• Adjust cushions properly.

Outdoor area

• Check to make sure nothing is lying around.
• Check ashtrays and empty them if necessary.
• Lawn Mowing

This list is not exhaustive, but it gives you an overview of the main household tasks you should focus on to welcome your guests in perfect condition.

Conclusion: thorough cleaning practices translate to direct bookings

Hygiene is a must, especially now more than ever in the context of the health crisis. You need to welcome your prospective visitors in a clean condition. In any case, regular and thorough cleaning will encourage other guests to book your tourist accommodation and recommend or repeat it in the future.

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