Airbnb Checklist for Guests Every Cabin Host Should Follow

We all know that first impressions are everything in real life and online. And Airbnb is no different. Guests expect a fantastic and simple experience from the moment they find your listing to the day they pack up to head home. A comprehensive Airbnb checklist for guests can ensure you provide that high-quality service every single time. Use ours as an example!

Cabin Cleanliness and Organization

Guests expect a clean and organized space during their stay. Deep clean before each guest arrival, declutter the space, provide fresh linens and towels, and check for pests.

Here’s a full breakdown:

• Deep Cleaning: Floors, surfaces, windows, bathrooms, and kitchen. Don’t forget to check the fridge for food or drinks leftover from previous guests.

• Decluttering: Remove personal items, unnecessary décor, and anything that could confuse guests or make the space feel unclean.

• Fresh Linens and Towels: Ensure all bedding and towels are clean, folded, and accessible. This includes linens on beds, towels in the kitchen and bathrooms, and extras in a storage closet.

• Pest Check: Inspect for insects, rodents, or signs of wildlife. You don’t want that phone call in the middle of the night!

Safety and Maintenance

Safety is crucial to a comfortable stay for your guests. They feel taken care of in case something unexpected happens.

These are some basics you should check or provide for guests:

• Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure they are functional. Replace batteries regularly to avoid guest complaints about chirping.

• Fire Extinguisher and First Aid Kit: Check locations and expiration dates. Make them easily accessible for guests to find and use if needed.

• Appliances and Plumbing: Test all kitchen appliances, hot water, HVAC, and plumbing. Keep a regular maintenance schedule to avoid mishaps.

• Outdoor Safety: Inspect decks, railings, paths, and outdoor lighting. Fix any potential hazardous conditions, such as unstable railings, dim lighting, or loose boards.

Guest Comfort Essentials

Before welcoming new arrivals, review your Airbnb checklist for guests to make sure the essentials are restocked. Think about the items that will make the stay extra comfortable for guests. What are they used to having at home that they would expect in your Airbnb?

Some examples are:

• Wi-Fi and Tech: Ensure the internet is working and devices are charged.

• Heating/Cooling: Set thermostat and provide extra blankets or fans as needed. 

• Basic Supplies: Provide guests with toilet paper, soap, shampoo, kitchen basics, and trash bags for use throughout their stay.

• Local Guide and House Manual: Include instructions, emergency contacts, and recommendations for nearby attractions.

Ambiance and Personal Touches

Here’s where you can add a little personality to your Airbnb experience. Make your property unique and memorable. These are the things guests frequently write about in reviews after their stay!

These are some ideas you can use:

• Décor and Seasonal Touches: Add local or seasonal elements (firewood, candles, fresh flowers, local produce, etc.).

• Welcome Note or Gift: Write a personalized welcome message or craft a welcome basket for an unforgettable stay.

• Unique Stations: Give them all the coffee or tea essentials they need to start their day off right with a coffee bar. Or a s’mores station to elevate the experience.

• Thoughtful Extras: Things like umbrellas, slippers or robes, reusable shopping bags, phone chargers or adapters, and a small sewing kit make your Airbnb truly feel like home.

Final Walkthrough and Last-Minute Checks

Before your first guest arrives, do a final walkthrough of your property to double-check everything. It might be helpful to bring someone else along who hasn’t been to the property before to give you feedback with a fresh pair of eyes.

These are some things you’ll want to check:

• Inspect Each Room: Ensure everything looks inviting and functional.

• Test Entry Points: Check keys, smart locks, or keypads.

• Trash and Recycling: Empty bins and prep for guest use.

• Exterior Presentation: Lawn, driveway, signage, and parking areas are tidy and welcoming.

Use This Airbnb Checklist for Guests

A well-prepared host relies on an Airbnb checklist for guests to maintain high ratings and repeat bookings. And we all know positive reviews are everything to owning a successful Airbnb business.

Print or save this checklist and use it before every booking. Even if you outsource cleaning the property after stays, ask the crew to follow it. It will ensure a clean, relaxing, and positive experience every time.

Once your Airbnb is guest-ready, have us come out to photograph it! High-quality Airbnb photos typically see significantly more bookings. We’re experts at showcasing the beauty of your Airbnb, making potential guests feel at home before they ever step inside. Explore our packages.

FAQs About an Airbnb Checklist for Guests

What should I leave for guests on Airbnb?

Leave the essentials for guests, plus a few little surprises. At a minimum, guests expect fresh linens and towels, toiletries, kitchen basics, trash bags, and paper towels. To go above and beyond, you could leave a welcome note, a local treat, a house manual, and local recommendations.

What are red flags for Airbnb guests?

Before confirming a booking, look for these red flags that might indicate potential problems with the guests:

• Incomplete profile or no verified ID

• No reviews, combined with vague communication or last-minute booking

• Reluctance to answer simple questions about their stay

• Requests to pay outside of Airbnb or ignore house rules

• Party-related inquiries

• Disrespectful tone or ignoring boundaries in the message

Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it’s okay to decline.

What are Airbnb hosts required to provide?

Airbnb’s basic host requirements include essential amenities, a clean and safe space, accurate listing details, responsive communication, and compliance with local laws, permits, safety regulations, and taxes.