According to a study by Airbnb, cleanliness is the number one criteria mentioned by travelers in their reviews. A single negative comment about hygiene can cause your occupancy rate to drop dramatically. If you are an Airbnb host in Montreal, Laval, or the Laurentians, here is the Airbnb cleaning checklist that will guarantee you 5-star reviews for every stay.
Why Airbnb cleaning is different from regular housework
Cleaning a short-term rental property is nothing like maintaining your own home. Travelers’ expectations are similar to those of a hotel: impeccable cleanliness, polished presentation, and immediate comfort upon arrival. Every detail counts — from the absence of hair in the shower to the perfect arrangement of towels.
Furthermore, time is often limited. With check-outs at 11 AM and check-ins at 3 PM, you have a tight window to transform an occupied home into a welcoming space. This is precisely why many hosts trust a professional Airbnb cleaning service to ensure consistent quality within the required timeframe.
The complete checklist by zone
Entrance and common areas
- Vacuum and wash the entrance floor
- Clean door handles, light switches, and the thermostat
- Check that all lighting is working
- Tidy up shoes or the entrance mat
- Dust baseboards and door frames
- Place the welcome book and Wi-Fi instructions in plain sight
Kitchen
- Empty and clean the refrigerator (inside and out)
- Clean the oven, microwave, and stove
- Wash all dishes and put them away neatly
- Disinfect countertops and the dining table
- Empty trash cans and replace bags
- Check basic supplies (salt, pepper, oil, coffee, tea)
- Clean the sink and faucets until they shine
- Mop the floor with a damp mop
Living Room
- Vacuum cushions and the sofa (top, bottom, and between cushions)
- Clean the remote control and electronic devices
- Dust surfaces, shelves, and light fixtures
- Clean windows and mirrors
- Rearrange decorative pillows uniformly
- Vacuum and wash the floor, including under furniture
Bedroom(s)
- Change all sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers
- Check the mattress for any stains or wear
- Dust nightstands and lamps
- Empty and clean the inside of drawers and the closet
- Check under the bed (items forgotten by previous guests)
- Vacuum and wash the floor
- Place fresh folded towels on the bed
Bathroom
- Scrub the shower/bathtub, including grout and the glass door
- Disinfect the toilet (inside, outside, seat, and base)
- Clean the sink and mirror
- Replace all towels with fresh ones
- Check and refill toilet paper, soap, and shampoo
- Clean the floor, including corners and behind the toilet
- Check ventilation and the drain (hair, mold)
Table: Airbnb cleaning standards vs. classic cleaning
| Criteria | Classic Cleaning | Airbnb Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Bedding | Changed weekly | Changed every stay (ironed sheets) |
| Towels | Changed every 2-3 days | Fresh every stay, carefully folded |
| Oven interior | Occasional | Cleaned after every stay |
| Switches / handles | Rarely cleaned | Systematically disinfected |
| Under furniture | Monthly | At every turnover |
| Refrigerator | Bi-monthly | Emptied and cleaned every stay |
| Remotes / devices | Rarely | Systematically disinfected |
| Interior windows | Monthly | Cleaned at every turnover |
The touches that make the difference
Beyond basic cleanliness, certain details transform an “okay” experience into an “exceptional” one. These small attentions are often what travelers mention in their glowing reviews.
The scent: A home that smells fresh (without being overpowering) immediately creates a positive impression. Opt for a light diffusion of natural essential oils rather than chemical air fresheners.
The staging: Place rolled towels in a wicker basket, set out a personalized welcome note, and leave a bottle of water in the fridge. These simple gestures stick in travelers’ minds.
The lighting: Before the guest arrives, turn on one or two ambient lamps to create a warm atmosphere as soon as they enter.
Managing quick turnovers: practical tips
Managing successive check-ins and check-outs is the biggest challenge for active Airbnb hosts. To maintain a high standard even on the busiest days, here are some proven strategies.
Build a basic inventory — sheets, towels, toiletries — in sufficient quantities to handle two turnovers without doing laundry. Prepare pre-packed kits (set of sheets + pillowcases, set of towels) to speed up bedding changes.
If you manage multiple properties or have a busy booking calendar, delegating your Airbnb cleaning to professionals frees up a considerable amount of time. Our teams of experienced cleaners perfectly understand the requirements of rental platforms and ensure a consistent result, whether your property is in Rosemère, Blainville, or Saint-Eustache.
The financial impact of impeccable cleaning
Investing in quality professional cleaning for your Airbnb is far from an expense — it’s an investment with a measurable return. A property consistently rated 5 stars for cleanliness averages a better ranking in Airbnb search results, which translates directly into a higher occupancy rate.
Additionally, regular and meticulous maintenance preserves the condition of your furniture, appliances, and flooring, reducing long-term replacement costs. Regular residential cleaning maintains the value of your real estate while providing an irreproachable experience for your tenants.
FAQ — Frequently asked questions about Airbnb cleaning
How long does it take to clean an Airbnb between two stays?
For a 1-bedroom or 2-bedroom unit, expect between 1.5 and 3 hours depending on the condition left by previous guests. A team of two professionals can reduce this time to 45 minutes to 1.5 hours thanks to a well-oiled process and appropriate equipment.
Do I need to clean even if the guests only stayed one night?
Absolutely. The Airbnb standard requires a full cleaning between every stay, regardless of the duration. Sheets must be changed, the bathroom disinfected, and the kitchen cleaned just like any other stay.
Can I charge a cleaning fee on Airbnb?
Yes, Airbnb allows hosts to add a cleaning fee to each reservation. It is recommended to set this fee at a realistic amount that covers the actual cost of your professional cleaning service.
How do I handle difficult stains between two stays?
Always have an emergency kit: fabric stain remover, wine stain cleaner, magic eraser for walls. For stubborn stains or unforeseen situations, a quick call to your Airbnb cleaning service can save your next booking.
What products should I use for an Airbnb?
Prioritize effective but gentle products — many travelers are sensitive to strong chemical smells. Eco-friendly and hypoallergenic products are an excellent choice. Avoid overly strong scents that could bother some travelers or trigger allergies.
How often should I do a deep clean of my Airbnb?
Beyond cleaning between every stay, plan a major deep cleaning every 2-3 months. This includes cleaning ventilation ducts, washing curtains, deep cleaning carpets, and a general inspection of the furniture’s condition.
Want to guarantee 5-star reviews without the stress? Request a free quote from Ménage Laurentides and discover how our Airbnb cleaning service can transform your hosting business.
