The complete shopping list for your short-term rental. Every item you need, recommended quantities, and where to buy in bulk.
Nothing tanks reviews faster than missing essentials. This comprehensive checklist covers everything from kitchen basics to guest welcome items. Bookmark it and use it for every property setup.
Small (2qt), medium (4qt), large (8qt) with lids
8" and 12" skillets, one non-stick recommended
Half-sheet pans with silicone mats
9x13 glass or ceramic
Spatula, slotted spoon, ladle, tongs, whisk, wooden spoons
Chef's knife, paring knife, serrated bread knife + knife block
One large, one small (plastic for easy cleaning)
Measuring cups, measuring spoons
Nesting set, various sizes
Large, stainless steel or silicone
Manual (electric ones break)
Corkscrew + bottle opener
Simple Y-peeler
Rule of thumb: Provide 2x your max guest count for everything (guests break things).
2x guest count
2x guest count
2x guest count (soup/cereal size)
2x guest count
2x guest count
4-8 (stemless are more durable)
2x guest count (forks, knives, spoons)
Drip machine or Keurig (Keurig = less cleanup)
2-slice or 4-slice based on capacity
For tea, instant oatmeal, etc.
For smoothies (optional but appreciated)
Or K-cups if using Keurig
Variety pack
Sealed containers or individual packets
Grinders look nicer than shakers
Basic cooking oil
Refillable dispenser looks cleaner
If dishwasher equipped
Fresh for each guest
1 roll displayed + extras in cabinet
Extra bags under current liner
In drawer or cabinet
Fitted, flat, pillowcases. White or light neutrals for hotel feel.
White duvet cover, machine-washable
2 firm, 2 soft per bed
Waterproof for hygiene
Waterproof, encasement style
In closet for cold guests
With drawers or shelf space
Matching, with USB ports if possible
For longer stays
Matching wood or velvet
Foldable, stores in closet
Wall-mounted or standing
Essential for sleep quality
2 per guest, white preferred
2 per bathroom
2 per guest
Machine-washable
Or glass door (easier cleaning)
Enclosed, discreet style
Small, with lid preferred
One per property (store discreetly)
2+ rolls visible, extras under sink
Refillable dispenser (no cheap bottles)
Wall-mounted dispenser or quality bottles
Same presentation as shampoo
Matches shampoo/conditioner set
Box on counter or vanity
Stain-resistant fabric (performance velvet, crypton)
With books, tray, candle
Lamp placement + drink surfaces
Smart TV with streaming apps
Anchors furniture grouping
Draped on sofa/chair
Varying sizes and textures
Seats max guests + 2
Comfortable for longer meals
If family-friendly property
Stock these for guest access and cleaner use:
Upright or stick vacuum (Dyson, Shark)
For quick sweeps
Swiffer or spin mop
Mrs. Meyer's, Method, etc.
Windex or equivalent
Lysol, Clorox
If washer/dryer provided
Or wool dryer balls
Compact, stored in closet
House rules, WiFi, local recommendations
Optional but memorable welcome touch
2-4 bottles in fridge
Lightning + USB-C at minimum
In bedrooms for travelers
For emergencies
Bandages, pain relievers, antiseptic
1-2 for guest use
One per bathroom minimum
Board games, deck of cards for rainy days
Coffee table books, local guides
Every floor + bedrooms (test monthly)
Required if gas appliances or attached garage
Kitchen + each floor
Police, fire, hospital, your contact
Keyless entry (August, Schlage, Yale)
Reliable, password posted visibly
Nest, Ecobee for remote control
Minut, NoiseAware (no recording)
Ring, Nest - disclosed in listing
Weather-resistant chairs/sofa
For dining or drinks
Propane or charcoal + supplies
Weather-resistant, bring in seasonally
Create ambiance
Front and back entrances
| Category | Best Sources |
|---|---|
| Linens & Towels | Amazon Basics, Target (Casaluna), Standard Textile |
| Kitchen Essentials | Amazon, IKEA, WebstaurantStore |
| Consumables | Costco, Amazon Subscribe & Save, Sam's Club |
| Furniture | Wayfair, IKEA, Facebook Marketplace, Amazon |
| Decor | HomeGoods, Target, H&M Home, Wayfair |
| Tech/Smart Home | Amazon, Best Buy, Home Depot |
| Cleaning Supplies | Costco, Amazon Subscribe & Save |
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