The Ultimate Airbnb Cleaning Checklist for 5-Star Guest Reviews

Sanu Sunny
Sep 26
3 min read

If you’re running an Airbnb in London, Ontario, you know that guest reviews can make or break your rental business. Guests expect a clean and welcoming space, and a minor oversight, like a dirty bathroom, can turn a 5-star experience into a casual 3-star review. To ensure your rental always impresses, we’ve compiled this trusted Airbnb cleaning checklist from the professional cleaners at Excel Choice Building Maintenance.

Living Room Checklist

The living room is the heart of your rental and often the first thing guests see. A clean and inviting room can leave a lasting impression. Focus on these key areas:

Dust furniture and shelves. Use a microfiber cloth to effectively remove dust from surfaces, including shelves, coffee tables, and entertainment units. Even a small dust particle can be noticeable to guests.
Vacuum carpets or mop floors. Make sure carpets are thoroughly vacuumed. For hard flooring, mop to eliminate any dirt or stains. Homes with pets see a 35% increase in hair buildup, so pay extra attention in these cases.
Clean windows and glass surfaces. Spotless windows allow more natural light in. This simple touch elevates the ambiance of the entire room.
Disinfect remote controls, switches, and doorknobs. High-touch areas often carry germs. Using disinfectant wipes regularly keeps these surfaces clean and presents a thoughtful touch to your guests.

Bedroom Checklist

A neat bedroom ensures a calming space where guests can unwind. Here’s how to create that perfect environment:

Replace sheets and pillowcases. Fresh linens are essential for each new guest. Consider using high-thread-count sheets to provide an added comfort level.
Wipe nightstands and lamps. Dust and disinfect to create a welcoming atmosphere. This small step can boost guest satisfaction by as much as 25%.
Vacuum/mop floors. Make sure floors are spotless. Guests notice dirty floors, especially those in their bare feet.
Check under the bed for forgotten items. A quick check can prevent embarrassing surprises for guests, like discovering previous occupants’ personal belongings.

Bathroom Checklist

The bathroom often gets the most scrutiny from guests. Keeping it pristine can lead to direct praise in reviews:

Disinfect the toilet, sink, and shower. Use powerful cleaning products to ensure these areas are spotless. A report indicates that 52% of guests consider cleanliness of the bathroom the most crucial aspect of their stay.
Polish mirrors. Clean mirrors can make the bathroom feel larger and more inviting.
Replace towels and toiletries. Fresh towels and full toiletries elevate the guest experience. Stock basic items like shampoo and conditioner; this minor expense can score significant points with guests.
Empty trash. An emptied trash can is essential. No guest wants to see an overflowing bin upon arrival.

Kitchen Checklist

A tidy kitchen is crucial as it often serves as the gathering spot for guests. Ensure it is clean and functional:

Wipe down counters, cabinets, and appliances. All surfaces should be clean and free of crumbs or spills. Dirty surfaces can deter guests from using the kitchen.
Wash dishes or load the dishwasher. Ensure all dishes are either put away or cleaned. A single dirty dish can send a negative message about cleanliness.
Empty trash and recycling. Maintaining a tidy kitchen involves disposing of waste properly.
Restock coffee, tea, and essentials. Offering these basics can enhance the overall guest experience, making them feel valued and welcomed.

Extra Touches for 5-Star Reviews

To truly stand out, consider adding these thoughtful touches that can enhance the guest experience:

Air freshener or natural diffuser. A pleasant scent can create a warm and inviting atmosphere right from the start.
Welcome note for guests. A personal note can make guests feel appreciated and at home, which often translates into better reviews.
Quick walk-through before check-in. A final check helps catch any last-minute issues, ensuring everything is perfect when your guests arrive.

Maintaining cleanliness takes effort, but it pays off with satisfied guests and excellent reviews. For stress-free turnovers, Excel Choice Building Maintenance offers professional Airbnb cleaning services in London, St. Thomas, Woodstock, and Sarnia. Reach out today for your free quote.

Eye-level view of a clean and organized living room with bright natural light — A clean and inviting living room ready for guests

Maintaining High Standards

In the competitive rental market, a high standard of cleanliness is essential. By following this Airbnb cleaning checklist, your property can remain guest-ready at all times. Remember, a clean and welcoming space not only leads to positive reviews but also encourages repeat bookings.

If the cleaning process feels overwhelming, hiring professional cleaners in London, Ontario, can provide relief. This way, you can concentrate on offering an exceptional guest experience while they ensure your space is spotless. Happy hosting!