STR Cleaning & Turnover Mastery

Cleanliness is the #1 factor in guest reviews. A single "not clean" complaint can tank your listing. This guide gives you the systems to deliver spotless turnovers every time.

Why Cleaning Matters

78% Of guests check cleanliness reviews first

4.7+ Cleanliness score needed to rank well

$150 Avg. refund request for cleanliness issues

Airbnb's algorithm heavily weights cleanliness ratings. A 4.5 cleanliness score can drop your listing from page 1 to page 10. It's that critical.

Room-by-Room Checklist

Kitchen

Appliances

Clean inside microwave, oven, refrigerator (remove old food), dishwasher

Surfaces

Wipe counters, cabinet fronts, backsplash, sink (polish faucet)

Dishes & Cookware

All clean and put away, check for chips/damage

Trash & Recycling

Empty all bins, replace liners, clean bins if needed

Restock

Dish soap, sponge, paper towels, trash bags, coffee/tea

Bathrooms

Toilet

Scrub bowl, wipe exterior, base, and behind. Check for odors.

Shower/Tub

Scrub walls, floor, door/curtain. Remove hair from drain. Check grout.

Sink & Vanity

Clean bowl, faucet, mirror (streak-free), counter, cabinet fronts

Towels & Linens

Fresh towels folded/displayed, bath mat clean, shower curtain fresh

Restock

Toilet paper (2+ rolls visible), hand soap, shampoo, conditioner, body wash

Bedrooms

Bed Making

Fresh sheets, tight hospital corners, fluffed pillows, decorative pillows

Surfaces

Dust nightstands, dresser, headboard, lamps, TV

Closet

Empty hangers available, check for left-behind items, vacuum floor

Under the Bed

Vacuum underneath, check for items, no dust bunnies

Living Areas

Furniture

Vacuum/lint roll upholstery, fluff cushions, arrange pillows

Electronics

Dust TV, remotes (disinfect), gaming consoles, speakers

Windows & Doors

Clean glass, dust blinds/curtains, wipe door handles

Whole-Property Tasks

Floors

Vacuum all carpets, mop hard floors, clean baseboards monthly

Light Switches & Handles

Disinfect all high-touch surfaces

Thermostat

Set to welcome temperature (72°F summer, 68°F winter)

Lights

Test all bulbs, replace any burnt out

Scent

Light, neutral scent only. No overpowering air fresheners.

Turnover Timeline

Property Size	Min Turnover Time	Recommended Buffer
Studio/1BR	1.5-2 hours	3 hours
2BR	2-2.5 hours	4 hours
3BR	2.5-3 hours	5 hours
4BR+	3-4 hours	6 hours

Pro Tip: Set checkout at 10-11 AM and check-in at 3-4 PM minimum. This gives you a 4-5 hour window for cleaning, inspection, and emergencies.

Hiring Cleaners

Finding Quality Cleaners

Turnover-specific apps: TurnoverBnB, Properly, Breezeway
Local Facebook groups: Search "[City] Airbnb Hosts" for recommendations
Referrals: Ask other hosts in your area
Cleaning services: Look for those with STR experience specifically

What to Pay

Property Size	Rate Range	Notes
Studio/1BR	$75-125	Higher in HCOL areas
2BR	$100-150	+$25-50 for deep clean
3BR	$125-200	Consider 2-person team
4BR+	$175-300	2-person team recommended

Cleaner Management Tips

Pay same-day or next-day - fast payment = reliable cleaners
Provide all supplies - don't make them bring their own
Create a photo checklist they can reference
Have a backup cleaner for emergencies
Tip well for holidays and last-minute requests

Quality Control

Photo Documentation

Require cleaners to send photos after each turnover:

Made bed (close-up and full room)
Bathroom (toilet, shower, sink)
Kitchen (counters, stove, sink)
Living area (staged and tidy)
Any issues found (damage, items left behind)

Spot Checks

Do random in-person inspections monthly
Use a smart lock to know when cleaners arrive/leave
Check guest reviews for cleanliness mentions
Install a camera at the entrance (disclosed) to verify visits

Red Flags: Cleaners who rush, skip photo documentation, or have inconsistent timing may be cutting corners. Address issues immediately or find a replacement.

Supplies & Systems

Cleaning Supply Kit

All-purpose cleaner (Method, Mrs. Meyer's)
Glass cleaner
Disinfectant spray/wipes
Toilet bowl cleaner
Tile/grout cleaner
Stainless steel cleaner (if applicable)
Microfiber cloths (color-coded by room)
Scrub brushes
Vacuum with attachments
Mop and bucket or Swiffer
Rubber gloves
Trash bags

Pro Tip: Buy supplies in bulk from Amazon Subscribe & Save or Costco. Keep a restocking schedule so you never run out mid-turnover.