Cleaning checklist between guests

Why a checklist beats "just clean it well"

Whoever cleans — you, a cleaner, a rotating team — needs the exact same standard every time. A written checklist (paper or a shared note) removes the guesswork and gives you something concrete to check against if a guest ever reports an issue.

Strip and reset

• Strip all bedding and used towels; start laundry immediately
• Empty every bin, including bathroom bins
• Check under beds and sofas for anything left behind
• Reset furniture to its photographed position

Kitchen

• Empty fridge of anything perishable the previous guest left
• Wash and put away all dishes, including anything left to dry
• Wipe hob, counters and handles
• Restock basics: tea, coffee, dishwasher tablets, bin bags

Bathroom

• Clean and descale shower, taps and toilet
• Fresh towels, folded to the same standard each time
• Restock soap, shampoo, loo roll to the same level every turnover
• Check the extractor fan and mirror for mould or streaks

Final walk-through

• All lights working, bulbs replaced if needed
• Wifi router on and working
• Heating/AC set to a sensible default
• Windows and doors locked, keys in the agreed spot
• One photo of the reset living room and bedroom, dated — useful proof if a dispute ever comes up

Build in a buffer

Same-day turnovers are the riskiest point in the whole operation — see our guide to managing fast turnovers if your calendar regularly has back-to-back bookings.