Whether you're new to the world of owning a vacation rental, or a seasoned host, cleanliness should be a number one priority in providing top-notch service. Nothing impacts the quality of your guest's stay faster than a rental that's dirty, untidy, or just plain rundown.
As a vacation rental owner and host, your reputation is everything. Your guests' ratings determine your overall success and good ratings depend on customer experience. A pristine, organized, and welcoming rental is what all guests want - keep yours this way with this vacation rental cleaning checklist.
Start With the Common Living Areas
In these areas, guests tend to spend most of their time, creating the most mess. The common areas such as the lounge, dining area, and entranceway need a little extra TLC. Always start by cleaning up any rubbish and empty the trash cans. Next, move on to cleaning all the high-touch surfaces, i.e. countertops, tables, desks, light switches, door handles, and remotes.
Dust or steam-clean upholstery where necessary - especially chairs, sofas, and drapes. Fluff and reorganize pillows and blankets. If you have blinds, make sure to give them a good dusting. Clean fingerprints off windows and mirrors and finally, vacuum and mop the floors.
Deep Clean the Kitchen
This is another area where guests tend to spend much of their time. The kitchen is super important because it's always a central gathering point, so it needs to be well-maintained. Clear out any rubbish and empty trash cans. Start by wiping down and cleaning all touch-points, i.e. the countertops, tables, cabinets, stove, fridge, and sink area. Move on to re-organizing and tidying the inside of the cabinets if necessary.
Always remember to check the inside of the fridge for any leftovers, the inside of the oven for any dirty trays/dishes, and clean the inside of the microwave. If the unit has a dishwasher, make sure it's clean and empty.
Restock any pantry items that are running low, vacuum, and mop the floors.
Prioritize the Bathrooms
Cleanliness in the bathroom(s) is probably just as paramount as in the kitchen. Make sure to prioritize a deep clean in the bathrooms too, even if they look clean on the surface. While bathrooms are easy enough to clean, remember to focus on hard-to-reach areas where dust and hair can accumulate, like drains and behind the toilet bowl.
Empty and sanitize trash cans, remove dirty bath towels, hand towels, and bathmats (and replace them with fresh ones). Always wipe down and disinfect the countertops, faucets, and the outside of the toilet bowl. Make the toilet brush is clean and stain-free. Move on to cleaning the mirrors, ensuring they're streak-free.
Deep clean and sanitize the shower/bath, restock toilet paper, and stage your complimentary toiletries. Finally, do a good mop/steam clean of the floors.
Refresh the Bedrooms
While bedrooms might be near the end of the checklist, they're probably the most important part of your rental and your guest's overall vacation experience. The bedroom and its sleep experience leave the greatest impression.
Open up all the drapes and dust the window sills. Empty and sanitize trash cans, and remove old bedding and sheets, dirty towels, and blankets. Clean down all high-touch surfaces, including nightstands, remotes, and door handles.
Check the quality of the mattress protector and replace it if needed. Add your fresh bedding, and fluff the pillows and blankets. Don't forget to check inside the closets for any other dirty towels, bedding, or left-behind clothing.
Vacuum or mop the floors thoroughly.
Need Help With Your Vacation Rental Cleaning Checklist?
A clean and well-organized vacation rental is the gold standard for top guest reviews. If you want to inspire your guests to come back for more or attract new visitors, cleanliness and good ratings go hand-in-hand.
Need help formulating a vacation rental cleaning checklist? PMI Property Management is here to help you keep your rental in tip-top shape. Learn more about our Orlando vacation property management services today.
