How to Earn a 5-Star Cleanliness Rating for Your Short-Term Rental
In the world of short-term rentals (STRs), cleanliness is a non-negotiable factor that directly impacts guest satisfaction and reviews.
A spotless property not only attracts more bookings but also fosters repeat guests and positive word-of-mouth referrals.
A recent guide from Turno highlights key strategies to ensure your property meets and exceeds guest expectations.
Why Cleanliness Matters in STRs
Cleanliness is one of the most critical aspects of a guest’s experience. Even a beautifully designed space can receive a poor review if it isn’t impeccably clean.
Studies show that guests are more likely to leave a 5-star review when they feel the space is fresh, hygienic, and well-maintained. Conversely, a single negative review mentioning cleanliness can deter future bookings and hurt your overall rating.
To avoid this, STR hosts must implement rigorous cleaning protocols, use high-quality cleaning supplies, and ensure consistency with every turnover.
Essential Cleaning Strategies for a 5-Star Rating
1. Create and Follow a Detailed Cleaning Checklist
A structured checklist ensures that every part of the home is cleaned and nothing gets overlooked. Room-by-room checklists help maintain consistency and quality in every turnover. Areas that should always be included:
- High-touch surfaces (light switches, doorknobs, remote controls)
- Inside kitchen appliances (microwave, refrigerator, oven)
- Bathroom grout and shower corners
- Baseboards and vents, where dust can accumulate
- Under beds and furniture
2. Use High-Quality Cleaning Supplies
Cheap cleaning products may not be as effective and can leave streaks or residue behind. Invest in:
- Microfiber cloths for dusting and polishing
- HEPA-filter vacuums for allergen reduction
- Eco-friendly disinfectants for a fresh, chemical-free scent
- Steam cleaners for deep-cleaning upholstery and grout
3. Pay Attention to Hidden and Overlooked Areas
Guests notice when a space looks clean, but they also appreciate the details. Make sure to clean:
- The inside of drawers and cabinets
- Under rugs and behind furniture
- Showerheads and sink faucets (hard water buildup can be unsightly)
- Ceiling fan blades and air vents
4. Wash and Sanitize All Linens Properly
Even if linens look clean, guests expect freshly washed bedding and towels. Ensure that:
- Sheets and pillowcases are washed at high temperatures
- Towels are soft, stain-free, and smell fresh
- Mattress and pillow protectors are regularly washed
- Extra blankets and throws are cleaned between stays
5. Eliminate Lingering Odors
A clean home should smell fresh but not overwhelming. Avoid artificial air fresheners that can be too strong and opt for natural solutions like:
- Baking soda for deodorizing carpets and upholstery
- White vinegar for neutralizing odors in the air and drains
- Activated charcoal or air purifiers to improve indoor air quality
6. Implement a Quality Control Check Before Each Check-In
A final walkthrough before guests arrive ensures nothing is missed. Take these steps:
- Perform a “guest’s eye” review – walk through the space as if you were the guest
- Inspect under beds, behind furniture, and in hidden corners
- Restock essential supplies (toilet paper, paper towels, dish soap, etc.)
- Check for stray hairs—one of the biggest guest complaints in cleanliness reviews
7. Schedule Deep Cleaning Sessions Regularly
Even with thorough turnovers, deep cleaning is necessary every few weeks to maintain the property’s long-term appeal. Key areas to focus on:
- Professional carpet cleaning
- Deep scrubbing of tile grout and shower doors
- Washing walls and baseboards
- Descaling faucets and showerheads
By implementing these best practices, you can maintain an impeccably clean short-term rental and consistently earn 5-star reviews.
Guests will not only appreciate the effort but also be more likely to return and recommend your listing to others. A clean home is a successful home!
To read on How to Optimize Your Airbnb check out this blog post!
Barb is the president of NASTRA and has spent her professional career in hospitality and real estate. After acquiring her first short-term rental in 2018, Barb moved her focus to legal advocacy after she sued the city of Nashville over a permit issue. Over the last three years, she has mentored more than 2,800 new STR hosts and is the Community Leader for Airbnb in Nashville, as well as an Airbnb “Ask a Superhost” Ambassador. Barb has appeared on numerous radio broadcasts, television shows, and podcasts to talk about her love of hosting. She also manages and co-hosts a number of short term rentals across Tennessee and Arkansas. Barb and her husband Pat own a hotel brokerage, development, and consulting company. Barb has a podcast titled “Woman of Airbnb” which features conversations with incredible women in the STR space, focusing on their unique Airbnb hosting journeys. You can find it on Spotify, Amazon Music, and Audible.