Quick Clean: The Art of Short-Term Cleaning for New York Airbnb Hosts

By sparkleshinecs April 19, 2024

In the fast-paced world of New York City Airbnb hosting, making a lasting impression on your guests starts with a sparkling clean space. With quick turnovers and high expectations, mastering the art of short-term cleaning is essential for securing those 5-star reviews. Here’s how you can efficiently clean your Airbnb property between guests, ensuring every visitor walks into a flawless New York City haven.

1. Preparation is Key

Before you dive into cleaning, make sure you’re fully stocked with the right supplies. Create a cleaning kit that includes multi-surface cleaners, disinfectants, glass cleaner, dusters, microfiber cloths, garbage bags, and anything else you might need. Having everything in one portable kit saves time and keeps you organized.

2. Follow a Consistent Checklist

Develop a detailed cleaning checklist that covers every area of your Airbnb. This ensures you don’t miss anything, from wiping down light switches to restocking the bathroom essentials. Tailor this checklist to your space and update it based on guest feedback.

3. Focus on High-Traffic Areas

Pay extra attention to areas that see the most use. This includes the bathroom, kitchen, and living area. In the bathroom, clean and disinfect the toilet, sink, and shower. In the kitchen, wipe down appliances, countertops, and make sure dishes are clean and put away. Vacuum or sweep the floors in all high-traffic areas.

4. Linens and Towels

Fresh linens and towels are non-negotiable for a high-rated Airbnb. Strip the bed of used linens and replace them with clean, freshly laundered ones. Ensure you have a good stock of towels, and consider adding a special touch like folding them into a decorative shape or placing them in an attractive basket.

5. Eliminate Odors

NYC apartments can trap odors, so it’s crucial to freshen up the space between guests. Open windows to let in fresh air, use odor eliminators, and consider a subtle room fragrance. Make sure the garbage is taken out and check for any food left by previous guests that might spoil.

6. Detailing Makes a Difference

It’s the little details that often lead to a 5-star review. Check for fingerprints on windows and mirrors. Dust off surfaces, including less obvious places like the tops of picture frames and window sills. Look under the bed and furniture for any items left by past guests.

7. Safety First

Ensure your cleaning supplies are safe for use and won’t cause damage to your property or harm to your guests. Use environmentally friendly products where possible, and always ventilate the space well when cleaning.

8. Set Up a Welcoming Scene

Once the cleaning is done, set the stage for your guests’ arrival. Arrange the living space in an inviting way, maybe leave a small welcome note or a guidebook to NYC. Ensure all amenities promised in your listing, like coffee or WiFi passwords, are easily accessible.

9. Inspect Before You Go

Give your Airbnb one final inspection before you leave. Walk through each room and check off your cleaning list again. This last pass ensures you haven’t missed anything and that your space is ready to wow your next guests.

10. Seek Feedback

After your guests’ stay, ask for feedback specifically about the cleanliness of your Airbnb. This can help you pinpoint areas for improvement and ensure you maintain high standards.

Cleaning your New York City Airbnb efficiently between turnovers doesn’t just lead to satisfied guests; it sets the foundation for a successful hosting experience.

By implementing these strategies, you can ensure a clean, welcoming space that earns those coveted 5-star reviews, stay after stay.