Keeping your Airbnb operation running as smoothly in month six as it did in month one isn’t easy—especially when it comes to cleaning. In the early days, you’re laser-focused on every last detail, but as time goes on, maintaining those high standards can become a challenge. Guest satisfaction (and those all-important five-star reviews) depend on consistent quality and a reliable cleaning team that’s in it for the long haul.
The good news? With the right quality control systems and a strong relationship with your cleaning staff, you can keep your property spotless and your operation running seamlessly. In this guide, you’ll learn how to establish effective quality checks, build loyalty with your cleaning team, and create a smooth-running Airbnb that guests will rave about every time they visit.
Have an Airbnb Cleaning Handbook
Success is built on systems, not chance. A detailed cleaning handbook keeps things organized and helps cleaners avoid those “I thought that was someone else’s job” moments. This checklist gives you a baseline that all cleaners can use to meet the standards you expect, whether they’re new to the job or covering someone’s shift:
And here’s a tip that goes the extra mile: include your listing photos as part of your cleaning handbook to ensure cleaners arrange items as advertised. This way, guests experience the exact look and feel they expect from the listing photos.
Develop Strong Partnerships with Your Cleaning Team
The best working relationships aren’t just about getting the job done—they’re about knowing who you’re working with and building mutual respect. When your cleaners feel like more than just a “cleaning service,” they’ll care more about the job.
Take the time to ask about their background, family, or hobbies. You don’t need to go deep—just a few small connections can go a long way.
Pro Tip: Studies show that people are way more likely to stay in a job if they feel connected to their colleagues. Build a little camaraderie, and you’ll build a stronger, more dedicated cleaning team.
A simple “thank you” can go a long way. If they pulled off a challenging turnover or the place looks amazing after a tough week, let them know you appreciate it. These little gestures make a big difference in keeping your cleaners happy and loyal.
Optimizing Your Cleaning Operations
Happy cleaners mean happy guests. Show your cleaners you value them by offering ongoing support, tools, and a little empathy for the physical side of their job.
- Check In Regularly: Periodically ask your cleaners if they feel compensated fairly and if there’s anything you can do to make their job easier. It shows you value their input and care about their well-being.
- Offer Tools for Efficiency: If your property has multiple floors, a second vacuum on each floor could make life a lot easier. Ask if there’s anything they need to improve efficiency—small investments in equipment can go a long way.
- Quarterly “Anything We Can Do?” Question: Every few months, ask your cleaners, “Is there anything we can do to make your job easier?” This simple question builds goodwill and shows them that you respect their feedback.
Implementing Effective Quality Control Systems
Quality isn’t something you can assume will “just happen.” To keep things running smoothly, you need a regular system for quality control.
Set up routine inspections. Whether it’s sending in a handyman to do checks or personally inspecting the place, these regular check-ups help catch anything that might have slipped through the cracks.
Staying in your own property every now and then? Genius move. It’s the best way to experience the place just like a guest would, so you catch those small details and see exactly what they see.
Pro Tip: Let your cleaners know you’ll be doing periodic checks. Transparency here keeps them on their toes and sets a high standard without adding unnecessary stress.
Clear Communication and Performance Feedback
Nobody’s perfect, but how you approach feedback makes all the difference. Being specific, respectful, and clear about what you need can help your team improve without feeling put down.
If you’re seeing a drop in quality, don’t just say, “The place needs to be cleaner.” Get specific. “Let’s make sure the baseboards are dusted every time” is way more helpful and actionable. Specific suggestions (like “let’s focus on under-the-couch dusting”) make it easy for cleaners to know exactly what you want without feeling overwhelmed.
Another helpful framework is to try and frame the feedback as an update or adjustment to the process, not as a critique. It’s a simple shift in wording that makes feedback feel more like teamwork and less like pointing fingers.
Operational Excellence in Vacation Rental Cleaning
Sometimes, the best way to improve quality is by tweaking your operations. The right systems can make all the difference when you’re managing multiple properties or juggling different cleaners.
If you have several properties, assign different cleaners to each one and track the reviews to see who delivers the best results. Business people call this a “split test” and it’s a smart way to see who’s consistently reliable.
The best Hosts set really clear expectations around tasks, pay, and performance from the beginning. Front-loading expectations minimizes misunderstandings and helps keep your team around longer.
And finally, don’t skimp on cleaner pay to save a few bucks. Investing in top-notch cleaners pays off in the form of happier guests, five-star reviews, and fewer complaints.
Long-Term Professional Growth Opportunities
Cleaners who see potential for growth in their role are more likely to stick with you long-term. Treat cleaners as partners, not just “help.” Invest a little bit in their success, and it will come back to you.
If your cleaner is entrepreneurial, encourage them to expand by hiring assistants or setting up systems to manage more properties. Helping them grow their business helps both of you in the long run.
As a successful Airbnb host, you've learned a few cool skills! Offer your cleaners mentorship and advice. Share any tips you have on managing multiple properties, handling bookings, or running a service business. Showing them you care about their success builds loyalty and partnership.
The Bottom Line: Maximize Success Through Partnership
A successful Airbnb depends on more than just hiring a cleaner—it’s about building a partnership. Regular quality checks, fair compensation, open communication, and the right support can make all the difference in creating a reliable, five-star team.
With these strategies, you’re not just creating a checklist. You’re building a team that cares about your property as much as you do. And that’s the real secret to keeping your Airbnb spotless, your guests happy, and your ratings sky-high.
