Free full Airbnb cleaning checklist › Imperial Appliances Kenya
Free full Airbnb cleaning checklist › Imperial Appliances Kenya

A free full Airbnb cleaning checklist is one of the most powerful tools you can use to keep your short‑term rental consistently guest‑ready, cut down on stress, and protect your reviews. Whether you clean yourself or hire a team, a structured, room‑by‑room checklist ensures nothing is missed and your property stays spotless between check‑outs. Below is a complete, printable‑style guide you can adapt and reuse for every turnover.


What this Airbnb cleaning checklist covers

This checklist is designed for a full deep clean after every guest checkout, not just a quick tidy‑up. It walks you through:

  • Pre‑clean inspection and problem‑spotting.

  • Detailed cleaning steps for bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen, living areas, and utilities.

  • Sanitizing high‑touch surfaces and dealing with messes from previous guests.

  • Final touches that make your space feel fresh, welcoming, and professionally maintained.

You can copy this list into a Google Doc, Notion, or a simple spreadsheet and tick off each item as you go.


Step 1: Pre‑clean inspection and preparation

Before you start cleaning, do a quick walkthrough to spot damage or special issues.

  • Walk through the entire property and note any damage, stains, or missing items.

  • Remove any leftover guest belongings and store them safely.

  • Open windows and doors to ventilate the space and let in fresh air.

  • Gather all cleaning supplies: vacuum, mop, all‑purpose cleaner, disinfectant, glass cleaner, sponges, gloves, and trash bags.

Having this checklist in front of you (printed or on your phone) helps you move systematically instead of jumping around rooms.


Step 2: Bedroom cleaning tasks

Guests spend a lot of time in the bedroom, so this area should feel spotless and inviting.

  • Strip all bed linens (sheets, pillowcases, duvet covers) and place them in the laundry.

  • Inspect mattresses and pillows for stains or odors; spot‑clean or flip mattresses as needed.

  • Vacuum or wipe the mattress surface and under the bed to remove dust and crumbs.

  • Dust and wipe all hard surfaces: nightstands, dressers, mirrors, lamps, and shelves.

  • Vacuum floors and under furniture; mop hard floors if needed.

  • Replace all linens with fresh, neatly made sets that match your listing photos.

  • Check and tidy closets and wardrobes; remove any leftover items and straighten hanging clothes or storage.

  • Empty and wipe bedroom trash bins and replace liners.

If you use air fresheners or diffusers, refresh them here to give the room a clean, neutral scent.


Step 3: Bathroom deep‑clean checklist

Bathrooms are a high‑priority area for guests because they notice dirty tiles, mirrors, or shower scum immediately.

  • Remove and replace used towels, bath mats, and washcloths with fresh ones.

  • Clean the toilet thoroughly inside and out, including the base, lid, and seat; disinfect with a toilet cleaner.

  • Scrub the sink, faucet, and basin; polish chrome fixtures for a shiny finish.

  • Clean the shower or bathtub, paying attention to grout, glass, and corners; use a limescale remover if needed.

  • Wipe mirrors and glass surfaces to remove streaks and fingerprints.

  • Clean and dry shower curtains or liners; replace if they look worn or mildewed.

  • Disinfect light switches, door handles, and any other high‑touch surfaces.

  • Sweep and mop the bathroom floor; check for hair in drains and clear blockages.

  • Restock guest supplies: toilet paper, hand soap, shampoo, conditioner, and any other toiletries you offer.

If your property has multiple bathrooms, repeat this checklist for each one.


Step 4: Kitchen and dining area cleaning

A clean kitchen signals that you care about hygiene and makes guests more comfortable cooking.

  • Empty and clean the sink; sanitize the faucet and drain area.

  • Wipe down countertops, backsplashes, and tables with a disinfectant.

  • Clean the stovetop, oven exterior, and range hood; wipe inside the oven if it’s heavily soiled.

  • Clean the microwave inside and out, including the turntable and door seal.

  • Wipe the exterior and door seals of the refrigerator and freezer; discard any leftover food or expired items.

  • Clean shelves and wipe down cupboards and pantry areas if guests used them.

  • Wash or wipe appliances like the kettle, toaster, and coffee maker.

  • Wash, dry, and neatly arrange dishes, glasses, and cutlery.

  • Vacuum or sweep the floor and mop as needed; pay attention to crumbs under the dining table.

If you leave a welcome snack or basic ingredients for guests, refresh them here so they always feel “stocked.”


Step 5: Living room, lounge, and common areas

This is the first space guests see when they walk in, so it needs to feel inviting and clutter‑free.

  • Dust and wipe all hard surfaces: coffee tables, TV stands, shelves, and entertainment units.

  • Vacuum sofas and chairs, lifting cushions to remove crumbs and debris.

  • Dust lamps, picture frames, and any decorative items; wipe down electronics and remotes.

  • Vacuum or sweep floors and mop hard surfaces if needed.

  • Clean windows and mirrors in the living area for a bright, fresh look.

  • Empty and wipe all trash bins and replace liners.

  • Check everything against your listing photos and rearrange furniture or decor to match.

If you have a TV, scrub the screen gently and sanitize the remote before the next guest arrives.


Step 6: Final sanitizing and turnover checks

Once you’ve finished the main rooms, finish with a final pass focused on hygiene and details.

  • Wipe high‑touch points: door handles, light switches, remotes, key safes, and thermostat panels.

  • Check that all lights are working and replace any burnt bulbs.

  • Refill any consumables you provide: trash bags, laundry pods, dish soap, and hand soap.

  • Take a quick photo tour of the property to confirm nothing obvious is missed.

  • Lock all windows and doors, set the thermostat or AC if applicable, and update your app or software that you’re ready for check‑in.

Having this “free full Airbnb cleaning checklist” in front of you on every turnover will make your process faster, more consistent, and less stressful—while helping you maintain 5‑star reviews and repeat bookings.