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Essential Gear for Cleaning Professionals
- Caddy Organizer - Carry supplies efficiently
- Microfiber Cloths (50 pack) - Professional cleaning results
- Extendable Duster - Reach high areas safely
- Spray Bottles (6 pack) - Custom cleaning solutions
1. Why Airbnb Cleaning in 2026?
The short-term rental industry continues to explode in 2026, with millions of properties on Airbnb, VRBO, and other platforms. Every booking requires a thorough "turnover" clean—and most hosts don't want to do it themselves. This creates a massive, recurring demand for reliable cleaning services.
Airbnb cleaning differs significantly from traditional housekeeping. Turnovers are time-sensitive (often with just 2-4 hours between checkout and check-in), require hospitality-level standards, and include tasks like restocking supplies and resetting properties exactly to host specifications. This specialization commands higher rates than regular cleaning.
Market Opportunity in 2026
- 🏠 7+ million active Airbnb listings worldwide
- 📈 Short-term rental market growing 10%+ annually
- ⭐ Cleanliness is #1 factor in guest reviews
- 💼 85% of hosts outsource cleaning
- 🔄 High-demand properties turn over 15-25x monthly
What makes Airbnb cleaning particularly attractive is the consistency. Unlike traditional cleaning clients who book monthly, vacation rental hosts need cleaning after every single guest—often multiple times per week. One good host relationship can mean 10-20+ recurring cleanings monthly.
The earnings potential is substantial. Charging $100-150 per turnover and completing 2-3 daily means $200-$450+ per day. Many cleaners start part-time around other commitments and scale to full-time income within months.
2. Getting Started
Initial Requirements
Essential Startup
- ✓ Reliable vehicle for supplies/travel
- ✓ Professional cleaning supplies ($200-400)
- ✓ Smartphone with scheduling apps
- ✓ Basic business setup (payments, invoicing)
- ✓ Liability insurance ($300-500/year)
Professional Edge
- ✓ Business license (varies by location)
- ✓ Workers' comp if hiring
- ✓ Bonding for client peace of mind
- ✓ Professional uniforms/appearance
- ✓ Backup cleaner network
Understanding the Business Model
Airbnb cleaning works differently than traditional cleaning:
Time-Critical Turnovers
Check-out is typically 11am, check-in at 3-4pm. You have a narrow window to fully clean and reset the property. Reliability is non-negotiable—late cleaning means angry guests and hosts.
Hospitality Standards
This isn't just cleaning—it's creating a hotel-quality experience. Every detail matters: perfectly made beds, folded towels, spotless surfaces, and welcoming touches.
Variable Scheduling
Bookings vary—busy weekends, quiet weekdays, seasonal peaks. Flexibility is key. Some days you'll have 4 turnovers, others just 1.
Getting Your First Client
Offer to do 1-2 cleanings at a discounted rate in exchange for honest feedback and a review. Most hosts desperately need reliable cleaners and will test new services. Deliver exceptional results and you'll have a recurring client.
3. Essential Supplies
Professional Cleaning Kit ($200-400)
| Category | Items | Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaning Solutions | All-purpose, glass, bathroom, floor cleaners, disinfectant | $50-80 |
| Equipment | Vacuum, mop, bucket, caddy, spray bottles | $100-150 |
| Tools | Microfiber cloths, scrub brushes, squeegee, duster | $30-50 |
| Laundry | Laundry bags, stain remover, fabric softener | $20-30 |
| Safety/PPE | Gloves, masks, non-slip shoes | $20-40 |
Premium Upgrades
High-Quality Vacuum
Invest in a powerful, lightweight vacuum ($200-400). You'll use it multiple times daily—cheap vacuums slow you down and die quickly.
Steam Cleaner
Great for deep cleaning bathrooms, kitchens, and floors without chemicals. Speeds up sanitization and impresses hosts.
Professional Mop System
Microfiber flat mop with multiple pads is faster and more effective than traditional mops. Change pads between properties.
Organized Caddy System
Keep supplies organized for speed. Know exactly where everything is. Some cleaners use color-coded systems by room.
Pro Tip: Supplies Arrangement
Many hosts provide their own supplies and restocking items. Clarify who provides what before starting. Some cleaners charge less when supplies are provided; others prefer their own products for consistency and quality.
4. Cleaning Standards
The Complete Turnover Checklist
Airbnb cleaning must meet hospitality standards—every time, every property:
Kitchen
- ✓ Clean all appliances inside/out
- ✓ Wipe down cabinets and handles
- ✓ Sanitize countertops
- ✓ Clean sink and faucet
- ✓ Empty and clean refrigerator
- ✓ Check dishwasher for items
- ✓ Clean microwave inside
- ✓ Restock dishes/utensils properly
- ✓ Take out trash and replace bags
- ✓ Mop floors
Bathrooms
- ✓ Scrub and sanitize toilet (inside and out)
- ✓ Clean shower/tub thoroughly
- ✓ Shine mirrors and glass
- ✓ Wipe counters and sink
- ✓ Clean faucets and fixtures
- ✓ Replace towels (folded or displayed)
- ✓ Restock toilet paper (2+ rolls)
- ✓ Restock toiletries per host specs
- ✓ Empty trash and replace liner
- ✓ Mop floors and check grout
Bedrooms
- ✓ Strip and remake beds with fresh linens
- ✓ Fluff pillows and arrange properly
- ✓ Dust all surfaces and furniture
- ✓ Empty and wipe nightstands
- ✓ Check closets for items left behind
- ✓ Vacuum floors and under beds
- ✓ Clean mirrors
- ✓ Check all lights work
Living Areas & General
- ✓ Dust all surfaces and decor
- ✓ Wipe light switches and door handles
- ✓ Clean windows and glass doors
- ✓ Vacuum/mop all floors
- ✓ Arrange furniture per photos
- ✓ Check and reset thermostat
- ✓ Replace welcome materials
- ✓ Final walkthrough for details
The Photo Verification Standard
Many hosts require photos after each cleaning—beds made, bathrooms stocked, kitchen ready. Some use apps like TurnoverBnB or Properly that prompt specific photos. Get in the habit of documenting your work.
5. Services to Offer
Core Services
Standard Turnover CORE SERVICE
$75-150- ✓ Complete cleaning per checklist
- ✓ Fresh linens and towels
- ✓ Restock essentials
- ✓ Reset property to host specs
- ✓ Photo verification
- ✓ Report any issues/damage
Deep Clean
$200-400+- ✓ Everything in standard turnover
- ✓ Inside cabinets and drawers
- ✓ Behind and under furniture
- ✓ Detailed appliance cleaning
- ✓ Window tracks and blinds
- ✓ Baseboards and ceiling fans
Laundry Service
$30-60/load- ✓ Wash, dry, fold linens
- ✓ Return to property pressed and ready
- ✓ Maintain linen inventory
- ✓ Report worn or stained items
Add-On Services
Restocking
$15-25 + items
Shopping for supplies
Key Exchange
$20-40
Guest check-in assistance
Hot Tub/Pool
$25-50
Clean and check chemicals
Outdoor Spaces
$30-60
Patios, grills, furniture
Rush Turnover
+50% fee
Under 2-hour window
Inventory Check
$15-25
Detailed item verification
6. Pricing Your Services
Pricing by Property Size
| Property Type | Standard Rate | Time Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Studio/1 Bedroom | $75-100 | 1-2 hours |
| 2 Bedrooms | $100-140 | 2-3 hours |
| 3 Bedrooms | $130-180 | 3-4 hours |
| 4+ Bedrooms | $175-250+ | 4-5+ hours |
| Luxury Properties | $250-400+ | 5+ hours |
Pricing Strategy Tips
- 💡 Price per property, not hourly—efficiency should benefit you
- 💡 Charge more for properties with premium amenities (hot tubs, large kitchens)
- 💡 Build in travel time for distant properties
- 💡 Offer 5-10% discount for hosts with 10+ turnovers monthly
- 💡 Charge rush fees for same-day or tight-window bookings
- 💡 Review and raise rates annually as you build reputation
7. Finding Clients
Client Acquisition Channels
TurnoverBnB & Properly
These platforms connect cleaners with Airbnb hosts. Create a profile, set your service area, and receive job notifications. They handle scheduling and sometimes payments. Great for starting out.
Facebook Host Groups
Join local Airbnb host groups on Facebook. Hosts frequently post seeking cleaners. Introduce yourself professionally, highlight your reliability, and offer competitive rates for your first few clients.
Direct Outreach to Listings
Browse Airbnb for local listings and reach out to hosts directly through their websites or social media. Target listings with reviews mentioning cleanliness issues—they need you most.
Property Management Companies
Property managers handle multiple rentals and need reliable cleaning teams. One relationship can mean 5-20+ regular properties. Approach professionally with references and pricing packages.
Word of Mouth & Referrals
Hosts talk to each other. Exceptional service leads to referrals. Ask satisfied clients to recommend you to other hosts they know. Offer referral incentives (one free add-on service).
Building Host Trust
Hosts are trusting you with their income stream. Communicate proactively about any issues, be on time every single time, and go above and beyond on the first few cleanings to prove your value. Reliability matters more than price.
8. Efficient Workflow
The Speed-Cleaning System
Time is money in Airbnb cleaning. Develop a consistent system:
Quick Assessment
Walk through property, note any damage or issues, start laundry immediately if on-site.
Work Top to Bottom, Back to Front
Start with bedrooms/bathrooms furthest from entry. Dust and wipe before vacuuming. Work toward the door.
Bathrooms While Products Work
Spray bathroom with cleaner, let it sit while you make beds. Return to wipe and shine.
Kitchen and Living Areas
Appliances, counters, then floors. Check dishwasher and reset any displaced items.
Vacuum/Mop All Floors
One pass through entire property. Start furthest from entry, work toward door.
Final Walkthrough & Photos
Check every room, take verification photos, lock up. Report any issues to host.
Time-Saving Pro Tips
- ⚡ Keep a cleaning caddy fully stocked—never hunt for supplies
- ⚡ Use a property-specific checklist with host's exact preferences
- ⚡ Two sets of linens per property = swap instead of wash/wait
- ⚡ Develop muscle memory—same routine every time
- ⚡ Invest in quality tools that work faster
9. Income Calculator
Calculate your potential Airbnb cleaning income:
10. Scaling Your Business
Growth Strategies
Build a Team
Hire and train reliable cleaners. Pay them 50-60% of the turnover rate while you manage scheduling, quality, and client relationships. Scale beyond your personal capacity.
Partner with Property Managers
Property management companies handle 10-50+ rentals each. One contract can fill your entire schedule. Offer competitive rates for volume.
Expand Services
Add laundry service, restocking, guest coordination, and property inspection. Become a full-service property support partner.
Geographic Expansion
Once systems are solid, expand to neighboring areas. Hire local team leads and replicate your success in new markets.
Full-Time Income Potential
Successful Airbnb cleaning businesses scale to $50,000-$100,000+ annually by:
- ✓ Building a roster of 15-30+ regular properties
- ✓ Hiring 2-5 reliable team members
- ✓ Partnering with property management companies
- ✓ Offering premium services at premium rates
- ✓ Becoming the go-to cleaner in their market
11. Frequently Asked Questions
Start Your Airbnb Cleaning Business Today
Turn vacation rentals into steady income—earn $75-$200+ per property.
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