Finding a reliable cleaning crew for your Airbnb is like striking gold. Seriously. Cleanliness is the #1 thing guests notice and remember—and it’s one of the biggest drivers of positive reviews.
Whether you're looking for vacation rental cleaning experts or turnover cleaning services, this guide is packed with strategies to recruit, manage, and scale your cleaning team while keeping guest satisfaction and profits in mind.
Here’s the step-by-step playbook to help make finding quality cleaners easy, set clear expectations, and ask the right questions during the interview process.
Let's dive in.
Always Be Recruiting
Finding great cleaners is like dating. The right one can be hard to find, but once you do, you realize the effort was worth it. To get started, the trick is to recruit… constantly.
Nothing beats a good referral. Your Airbnb host network can be a goldmine. Ask other hosts, property managers, or even your current cleaners to suggest people they trust.
Don't have a network to provide a referral? Join local Facebook groups for Airbnb hosts and cleaners. Seriously, these communities have some of the best recommendations you’ll find.
If all else fails, post job ads on Indeed, Facebook, WhatsApp groups —all the hotspots.
Pro Tip: Build your list, even if you don’t need it today—you’ll be glad you have it tomorrow. Life happens, and sometimes your go-to cleaner can’t make it. Think of it as keeping a "cleaning bench" ready.
Set Expectations from Day One (or Even Before)
The last thing you want is confusion over standards or procedures after you’ve hired someone. That’s why you need to be crystal-clear about expectations from the get-go.
Pro Tip: Send your cleaner a written list of expectations before they even start the interview process. And yes, go overboard with specifics: hair removal from sheets, dusting in hidden corners, deep cleaning nooks and crannies. Don’t assume anything.
Next, get your presentation on point. Your cleaner should know exactly where every item goes, from the remote control to the coffee maker. Make it easy — give them listing photos of each room setup so they can “reset” it every time.
And here’s a big one: look for cleaners who see this as a profession, not a side gig. Airbnb cleaning is about detail, consistency, and passion for getting every little thing right.
Pro Tip: Find cleaners who actually enjoy cleaning. Yep, they exist! These pros bring a level of focus and pride that pays off when guests notice how spotless everything is.
Vet Your Cleaners Like You’re Running a CIA Operation
The interview stage is where you get a closer look at potential hires. Asking the right questions will save you from the headache of dealing with unsuitable cleaners down the line. Here’s what to ask:
The Basics
- Confirm they have their own car or reliable transportation.
- Make sure they have a smartphone they’re comfortable using. This is essential for quick communication and for them to send you photo updates of their work.
- Ask about their experience specifically with Airbnbs. Cleaning for an Airbnb differs from traditional cleaning jobs; it requires staging and attention to detail guests expect.
- Request references.
- Run a background check.
Comfort with Technology
Pro Tip: Tech makes it easier than ever to manage your cleaning schedule, track inventory, and automate communication. If you’re not using technology to streamline, you’re missing out.
Airbnb management tools like Guesty, Smartbnb or Hospitable can automatically generate cleaner schedules based on your bookings. No missed cleans, no confusion.
- Clearly communicate the need for cleaners to use your tech platforms. Show them an example of what the process looks like.
- Then, ask if they are comfortable with the process you use to create cleaning checklists, track inventory, report issues, and taking photos.
- Make sure they are 100% comfortable with the scheduling method. Your Airbnb management tools will sync with your calendar and automatically send cleaning schedules, notifications, and updates, keeping all parties informed and organized. This should keep everyone on the same page, all the time. You want to ensure they’ll never miss a turnover.
- Make sure they can help track inventory. Set up a system for tracking supplies (toilet paper, paper towels, cleaning supplies). Ensure your cleaners will communicate when supplies are running low. Clearly define when you want to be notified.
Laundry, Waste Management, and Minor Maintenance
- Discuss specific linen-handling instructions. Decide early on if you want laundry done on-site or off-site. Off-site laundry is usually faster but comes with the risk of mixing linens with other clients' loads. On-site is more controlled but may take longer. Clear communication here can save time, confusion, and mixed-up bedding situations.
- Clarify waste management expectations. Especially in remote or rural areas, waste management can be a hassle. Don’t let trash be an afterthought. Discuss regular waste collection and recycling needs to ensure a clean and well-kept space.
- Cleaners who can handle small maintenance tasks are a major asset. It reduces the need for last-minute fixes and keeps things running smoothly for guests. Confirm whether cleaners are comfortable with small tasks, such as changing smoke detector batteries, replacing light bulbs, or adjusting smart locks. These simple jobs reduce the need for service calls and help your property stay guest-ready.
- For properties with extras like saunas, grills, or fire pits, ask if they can handle basic maintenance. Note that “maintenance” usually covers cleaning, not repairs, so make sure they understand what’s expected. Make sure you’re clear on any extra charges for this work.
Pro Tip: For remote properties, ask if your cleaner offers “runner services” for quick issues (battery replacements, Wi-Fi resets) for a small additional fee. Agree on the fee in advance.
Team structure for backup coverage
- Pros tend to favor teams or cleaning companies over individual cleaners. They often provide more backup options, helping you avoid last-minute panic.
- If you decide to go with a single cleaner, make sure you have a backup plan in place.
Ask for their Input
- A cleaner with experience across STRs may bring efficiencies you haven’t even considered. Ask about any systems they’ve set up for cleaning multiple properties.
Conclusion: Systems Are Everything
Recruiting well, setting standards, and vetting carefully are the foundation of a rock-solid cleaning process. But don’t stop there—keep the lines of communication open, and give feedback often. A great cleaning team is built with clear systems, high standards, and a commitment to constant improvement.
Pro Tip: Recognize and reward consistency and quality work. Whether it’s a holiday bonus or just a thank-you note, showing appreciation helps retain top-notch cleaners—and keeps your STR sparkling, too.
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