The Airbnb Cleaning Checklist Every Nairobi Host Needs

In the short-stay business, reviews are everything. Guests may forgive a small apartment or a slow lift, but they rarely forgive a dirty bathroom. A consistent turnover checklist is the simplest way of protecting your ratings. Here is one that you can adapt for your unit.

Before you begin

• Open windows to air out the unit
• Check for damage or missing items, and take photos
• Remove all rubbish and left-behind food
• Strip the beds and collect towels

Bedrooms

• Fit fresh linen and pillowcases
• Check under beds and behind bedside tables
• Dust surfaces, lamps and headboards
• Check wardrobes and drawers for forgotten items
• Check for hair on pillows and sheets

Bathrooms

Guests inspect bathrooms closely, so pay special attention here.

• Scrub the toilet, including the base and behind it
• Clean the shower, screen and drain
• Remove every trace of hair
• Polish mirrors and taps
• Replace towels, toilet paper and soap
• Mop the floor

Kitchen

• Wash and put away all dishes
• Clean the fridge and throw out leftovers
• Wipe the microwave, cooker and worktops
• Check that utensils are clean
• Empty the bin and put in a new liner
• Restock tea, coffee and sugar

Living area

• Vacuum or sweep and mop floors
• Plump cushions and fold throws
• Dust the TV and remote controls
• Wipe tables and light switches
• Clean the balcony and glass doors

Final touches

• Compare the room with your listing photos
• Check the Wi-Fi and the TV
• Set out your welcome note
• Lock windows and balcony doors
• Make sure that the unit smells fresh

Things hosts often miss

• Dust on top of the fridge
• Hair in the drain
• Sticky remote controls
• Marks on walls behind beds
• Dirty door handles
• Balcony furniture

Plan for deep cleaning too

Turnovers are not enough on their own. Every few months, schedule a deep clean, and have mattresses, sofas and curtains cleaned.

Managing turnovers from a distance

If you are not nearby, keep spare linen and supplies in a locked cupboard, brief your caretaker, and ask for photos after each turnover. Share your calendar with your cleaning team as soon as you receive a booking.

Allow enough time

Set check-out and check-in times that allow a proper clean. Tight windows are the most common cause of missed details.

Setting up a linen system

Linen is the part of a turnover that most often goes wrong. Keep at least two full sets for each bed, and two or three towels per guest. Use white or light colours if you can, as they look fresh in photos and are easy to wash. Store clean sets in labelled bags, so that a full set can be found quickly. Inspect each item for stains and worn patches, and replace it before a guest notices.

Using guest reviews to improve

Reviews tell you what guests notice. If several people mention dust, ask for extra attention to high surfaces. If guests talk about smells, check the drains, the fridge and the bins. Keep a list of the recurring comments, and update your checklist each month. Responding politely to feedback also shows future guests that you care.

Preparing a unit that has been empty

If your unit has been unoccupied for a while, do not assume that it is still guest-ready. Dust settles, drains can dry out and start to smell, and insects may have found their way in. Run all the taps, flush the toilets, air the rooms and do a quick clean before anyone arrives.

Frequently asked questions

How long does an Airbnb turnover take?

It depends on the size of the unit and how the guests left it. Allow enough time between check-out and check-in for a proper clean.

Should hosts charge a cleaning fee?

Many hosts do. Check the platform's rules and consider what suits your pricing. Include your actual cleaning and laundry costs in your calculations.

How often should a short-stay unit have a deep clean?

Every few months is a good guide for busy units, along with periodic mattress and sofa cleaning.

Can a cleaner report damage?

Yes. Ask your team to take photos and report any damage or missing items right away, since platforms often have time limits for making claims.

Macky Group offers Airbnb and short-stay cleaning in Nairobi, including Kilimani, Westlands and near JKIA. Get a free quote for your unit.