How to Properly Clean an Apartment for Short-Term Rentals
At Skyline Benidorm, cleanliness and guest satisfaction are at the heart of our operations. Our dedication to maintaining spotless and welcoming apartments has earned us a 9.2 rating on Booking.com and the prestigious Traveller Review Awards 2024. This recognition motivates us to continue exceeding expectations.
If you’re managing a short-term rental on platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, or VRBO, cleanliness is the key to positive guest reviews and repeat bookings. Based on our experience, here’s a step-by-step guide to properly cleaning an apartment for short-term rentals.
1. Start with a Plan: Cleaning Checklists Are Essential
A detailed checklist is the foundation of an effective cleaning process. It helps ensure that nothing is overlooked and saves time by keeping you organized. Include tasks like:
• Dusting and vacuuming all surfaces.
• Disinfecting high-touch areas, such as door handles, light switches, and remotes.
• Checking for maintenance issues, such as damaged furniture or missing items.
A good checklist guarantees that every corner of the apartment is ready to impress your next guest.
2. Focus on High-Touch Surfaces and Hygiene Standards
High-touch areas are where germs accumulate the most, so disinfecting them thoroughly is critical. Pay close attention to:
• Door handles and light switches.
• Remote controls, cabinet handles, and window latches.
• Kitchen faucets and appliances.
Use high-quality, pet-safe disinfectants that eliminate bacteria while being eco-friendly. This attention to detail will give guests peace of mind and confidence in your rental.
3. Clean Room by Room for Efficiency
Cleaning one room at a time ensures thoroughness and prevents you from missing key spots.
Living Areas and Bedrooms
• Dust furniture, shelves, and decor items, ensuring no dust is left on hard-to-reach areas.
• Vacuum or mop floors, paying attention to corners and under furniture.
• Replace linens with freshly laundered bedding that is free of stains and odors.
Kitchen
• Wipe and disinfect countertops, sinks, and cabinet handles.
• Clean appliances like the refrigerator, oven, and microwave, removing crumbs and grease.
• Inspect dishes, cookware, and utensils to ensure they’re clean and neatly arranged.
Bathroom
• Disinfect fixtures like the sink, toilet, and shower using high-grade cleaning solutions.
• Polish mirrors and chrome surfaces for a spotless finish.
• Replace towels and bath mats with freshly laundered ones.
4. Invest in Advanced Cleaning Tools
Investing in modern cleaning equipment not only improves the quality of your cleaning but also saves time. At Skyline Benidorm, we’ve adopted the following tools to achieve professional results:
• Electric Mops: These mops reduce cleaning time and leave floors spotless and streak-free, making them ideal for hard floors.
• Steam Cleaners: Perfect for deep-cleaning bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas prone to germs. They effectively sanitize surfaces without using harsh chemicals.
• Extractors for Textile Sofas and Carpets: If your rental has upholstered furniture or rugs, an extractor can remove deep-seated dirt, stains, and odors, ensuring your apartment feels fresh and clean.
These tools are invaluable for maintaining high cleanliness standards while working efficiently.
5. Prioritize Air Quality and Freshness
Air quality is one of the first things guests notice when they walk into your apartment. Here’s how to ensure it’s perfect:
• Open windows during cleaning to ventilate the space and remove stale odors.
• Regularly clean or replace air filters in air conditioning or heating systems.
• Use subtle air fresheners or natural diffusers with light, pleasant scents to create a welcoming atmosphere.
A fresh-smelling, well-ventilated apartment leaves a lasting positive impression on guests.
6. Conduct a Final Inspection Before Check-In
Before guests arrive, take time to inspect the apartment to ensure it’s perfect. Use this opportunity to:
• Double-check for any missed spots or forgotten tasks.
• Ensure all amenities, such as towels, toiletries, and welcome materials, are properly placed.
• Address any small maintenance issues, such as a scuffed wall or a loose doorknob, before they become a problem for guests.
A final walkthrough ensures your apartment is guest-ready and builds confidence in your rental.
7. Prepare for Unexpected Challenges
Managing a short-term rental means being ready for last-minute surprises, such as spills, stains, or forgotten guest items. To handle these situations:
• Keep a stock of emergency cleaning supplies, such as stain removers, odor neutralizers, and upholstery cleaners.
• Learn quick fixes for common problems, like treating carpet stains or freshening up a room in a short amount of time.
Being prepared ensures that you can address issues promptly and maintain your rental’s cleanliness standards.
8. Go the Extra Mile for Positive Reviews
Cleanliness is often one of the most praised aspects in guest reviews, and going the extra mile can set your rental apart. Small upgrades to your cleaning routine can elevate the guest experience:
• Fridge Odor Eliminators: Place these in the fridge to keep it smelling fresh and free of food odors.
• Toilet Blue Tablets: These not only sanitize the toilet bowl but also leave it looking and smelling clean.
• High-Quality Rubbish Bags: Use sturdy, well-fitting bags with a pleasant scent to enhance the impression of cleanliness.
These little details, combined with your overall cleaning efforts, will leave guests with a lasting positive impression.
Final Thoughts
Properly cleaning an apartment for short-term rentals is more than just a task—it’s a key part of delivering an exceptional guest experience. By following these steps and investing in advanced tools, you can ensure your rental is not only clean but also memorable for guests.
If you’re just starting your journey as a host, check out our other articles, including tips on property maintenance and how to get high ratings on Booking.com and Airbnb. Feel free to reach out—we’re happy to share our expertise and help you succeed!