- June 28th, 2026
- 8 min read
The Ultimate Guide to Airbnb Hosting and Cleaning: How to Earn 5 Star Reviews
Airbnb hosting can be a rewarding way to earn extra income, but it comes with a lot of responsibility. And if there’s one thing guests care about above all else, it’s cleanliness.
A spotless space isn’t just about making a good first impression; it’s about earning five-star reviews, attracting repeat guests, and keeping your calendar full. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Airbnb hosting and cleaning, from turnover best practices to guest-ready standards.
Why Cleanliness Is the #1 Factor for Airbnb Reviews
Airbnb guests consistently rank cleanliness as the most important factor in their stay. A single complaint about dust, hair, or odors can drop your rating and cost you future bookings.
According to Airbnb data:
78% of guests say cleanliness is the top factor in their review
Properties with a 4.9+ rating often earn 3x more bookings than those with 4.5 or below
Negative reviews about cleanliness can take weeks to recover from
In short, cleanliness isn’t just about hospitality. It’s about your bottom line.
The Airbnb Turnover Checklist
A ready turnover isn’t just about making the bed and taking out the trash. It’s about creating a seamless experience from the moment the guest walks in.
Living Room & Common Areas
Dust all surfaces, shelves, and decor
Vacuum and mop floors
Wipe down baseboards and door frames
Clean windowsills and mirrors
Fluff pillows and arrange seating
Remove cobwebs from corners
Kitchen
Wipe down counters, backsplash, and stovetop
Clean exterior of appliances
Scrub sink and polish faucet
Wipe down cabinets and handles
Sweep and mop floors
Restock basic essentials (coffee, sugar, salt, pepper, olive oil)
Bathrooms
Scrub toilets, showers, and tubs
Clean mirrors and glass surfaces
Wipe down counters and sinks
Polish faucets and fixtures
Sweep and mop floors
Restock towels, toilet paper, and basic toiletries
Bedrooms
Strip beds and replace with fresh linens
Dust furniture and ceiling fans
Vacuum or mop floors
Wipe down windowsills and mirrors
Remove cobwebs and tidy up surfaces
Arrange pillows and bedding for a welcoming look
Entryway & Hallways
Sweep or vacuum floors
Wipe down doors and handles
Clean mirrors and glass surfaces
Dust shelves, decor, and baseboards
Mop hard floors
Best Practices for Airbnb Hosts
Communicate Clearly
Set clear expectations before guests arrive. Share check-in and check-out instructions, house rules, and Wi-Fi information in advance.
Stock Essentials
Guests appreciate small touches like coffee, tea, extra towels, and a welcome note. These details make a big difference in reviews.
Respond Quickly
If a guest has an issue, address it as soon as possible. A fast response can turn a negative experience into a positive review.
Schedule Regular Deep Cleans
Turnover cleans are essential, but they’re not a replacement for deep cleaning. Schedule a deep cleaning every few months to tackle baseboards, grout, behind appliances, and other areas that get overlooked.
Should You Hire a Professional Airbnb Cleaning Service?
Managing your own Airbnb cleaning might save you money upfront, but it comes with hidden costs: your time, stress, and the risk of missed details.
Hiring a professional Airbnb cleaning service ensures your property is consistently guest-ready. Professionals follow a strict checklist, bring their own supplies, and know exactly what guests expect.
At Yireh Housecleaning, we offer Airbnb cleaning services for hosts in Kent, Renton, Seattle, and surrounding areas. We handle turnover cleans, restock essentials, and make sure your property is fresh and welcoming for every guest. We also offer deep cleaning, house cleaning, and move-in and move-out cleaning to keep your property in top shape year-round.
Final Thoughts
Airbnb hosting is a rewarding way to earn extra income, but success depends on guest satisfaction. Cleanliness is the fastest way to earn five-star reviews and keep your property booked.
Ready to impress your next guest? Contact us today for a free quote and let us handle the turnover cleaning so you can focus on hosting.