A cleaning schedule is essential for keeping rental properties guest-ready and maintaining high reviews. Here's how you can create one that works:
- Why It Matters: Cleanliness directly impacts guest satisfaction, leading to better reviews, repeat bookings, and higher revenue.
- Key Components:
- Divide the property into zones (kitchen, bedrooms, bathrooms, etc.).
- List tasks for each area (e.g., change linens, disinfect surfaces).
- Set cleaning frequencies (daily, turnover, deep cleaning).
- Tools to Use: Cleaning checklists and apps like Turno or Breezeway can automate scheduling, track progress, and ensure consistency.
- Team Coordination: Hire experienced cleaners, communicate clear expectations, and use feedback to improve.
Quick Tip: Regularly review and adapt your schedule based on guest feedback, seasonal changes, and property needs. A well-maintained property keeps guests happy and boosts your rental's reputation.
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What to Include in a Cleaning Schedule
Creating an effective cleaning schedule takes planning and organization. Here's how to ensure your rental property stays clean and ready for guests.
Dividing the Property into Cleaning Zones
Breaking your property into specific zones helps ensure no area is overlooked. Common zones include:
| Zone | Key Focus Areas |
|---|---|
| Living Spaces | Living room, dining area, hallways |
| Bedrooms | Sleeping areas, closets, reading nooks |
| Bathrooms | Toilets, showers, vanities, mirrors |
| Kitchen | Cooking area, appliances, pantry |
| Outdoor Areas | Patio, deck, entrance, parking |
Customize these zones based on your property’s layout and unique needs. For instance, beach rentals may require extra attention to sand removal, while mountain cabins might need regular fireplace cleaning.
Listing Tasks for Each Area
Turno’s cleaning management system highlights the importance of simplifying and prioritizing tasks [2]. Here are some key tasks broken down by area:
Kitchen Tasks:
- Wipe down surfaces, clean appliances, and restock supplies.
Bathroom Tasks:
- Disinfect surfaces, scrub fixtures, and replace toiletries.
Living Areas and Bedrooms:
- Change linens, vacuum or mop floors, dust furniture, and clean windows.
Setting How Often to Clean
The frequency of cleaning depends on guest turnover and property usage. Here's a quick guide:
| Cleaning Type | Frequency | Tasks |
|---|---|---|
| Daily | During guest stays | Light cleaning, trash removal |
| Turnover | Between guests | Full cleaning and sanitization |
| Deep Cleaning | Monthly/Quarterly | Detailed cleaning of all spaces |
Tools like Breezeway or Turno can help you schedule and monitor these tasks for consistency and thoroughness [2]. Regular cleaning not only keeps guests happy but also maintains your property’s reputation.
Consider adjusting your schedule based on factors like:
- Guest stay duration
- Seasonal or weather-related needs
- High-usage periods or special events
- Feedback from guests and cleanliness ratings
Once your cleaning schedule is set, the next step is using tools and templates to simplify the process and keep everything on track.
Tools and Templates to Simplify Cleaning
Once you've outlined your cleaning zones and tasks, having the right tools can make the process smoother and ensure consistency across your rental properties.
Using Cleaning Checklists
A well-designed cleaning checklist helps maintain thoroughness and accountability. It combines step-by-step cleaning instructions, verification steps, and quality checks. These checklists often include detailed task lists, spaces for verification, and even reference photos to ensure nothing gets overlooked [3].
For better results, tailor your checklist to match your property's unique needs. For instance, you can require timestamped photos to confirm cleaning quality, especially for key areas like kitchens, bathrooms, or high-touch surfaces [2].
Using Apps for Scheduling
Digital tools have revolutionized how cleaning tasks are managed in rental properties. Apps like Turno and Breezeway make managing cleaning schedules more efficient while helping you maintain high standards [2][3]. These apps offer features like:
- Automated scheduling and team coordination
- Real-time updates with photo verification
- Instant communication between property hosts and cleaners
- Digital logs of completed tasks for easy record-keeping
When a guest checks out, these platforms can automatically notify cleaners, provide clear instructions, and track progress in real time.
"Consistency in cleaning is crucial for maintaining high guest satisfaction and property reviews. Tools and templates help ensure that cleaning tasks are completed thoroughly and efficiently." [2][3]
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Working with Cleaning Teams
Having the right tools and templates is helpful, but it's the cleaning team that ensures everything gets done right. A dependable team can make all the difference in keeping your rental spotless and guest-ready.
Finding Professional Cleaners
Platforms like AirBnBCleaning.com connect you with cleaning services that specialize in short-term rental needs. When choosing a cleaning partner, focus on these key factors:
| Evaluation Criteria | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Experience with Rentals | They understand the fast pace and specific standards required for turnovers. |
| Availability | Can handle flexible check-in and check-out schedules. |
| Insurance Coverage | Protects you in case of accidents or property damage. |
| Response Time | Ensures quick communication for any last-minute changes. |
| Quality Control | Helps maintain consistent cleaning standards for your property. |
After selecting a team, keep communication clear and consistent to ensure they meet your expectations.
Communicating Clearly with Cleaners
Good communication is key to avoiding cleaning issues and keeping standards high. Here's how to make sure everyone is on the same page:
Set Clear Expectations:
Provide detailed cleaning instructions, including visual guides with photos of how each space should look when cleaned.
Establish Response Protocols:
Define how you'll communicate (e.g., text, email, or app), set response timelines, and create a system for feedback and issue resolution.
To keep standards high, consider adding a feedback process:
- Conduct monthly reviews to assess performance.
- Highlight specific areas that need improvement.
- Share guest feedback directly with the team.
- Use cleaning apps to track performance and hold the team accountable.
Improving and Maintaining Your Cleaning Schedule
Once you’ve established a solid cleaning schedule, keeping it up-to-date is key. Regular tweaks ensure you stay ahead of changing needs, maintain high standards, and keep guests satisfied (and leaving great reviews).
Tracking and Updating the Schedule
To keep everything running smoothly, focus on these areas:
- Guest Feedback: Pay attention to cleanliness ratings and comments from guests.
- Property Condition: Look for wear and tear or specific problem areas during inspections.
- Team Performance: Use apps to track how well and how quickly cleaning tasks are completed.
- Schedule Adherence: Ensure tasks are done on time with scheduling tools.
Property management software like Breezeway or Turno can simplify this process. These tools offer features like customizable checklists and photo verification, making it easier to manage cleaning for vacation rentals [2].
Don’t forget to adjust for seasonal needs. For example, beach rentals may face sand issues in summer, while ski properties might deal with mud in winter. Adapting your schedule keeps things efficient, no matter the time of year.
Once you’ve gathered performance data, use it to fine-tune your schedule for better results.
Reviewing the Schedule Regularly
Set aside time every 3–6 months to thoroughly review your cleaning schedule. Here’s what to focus on during these check-ins:
- Task Effectiveness: Identify which tasks get positive guest feedback and tweak any that don’t.
- Time Management: Update time estimates for tasks like hot tub cleaning based on actual durations.
- Resource Allocation: Check cleaning supplies and tools to ensure they meet the property’s needs.
- Technology Integration: Use cleaning apps to track metrics and adjust schedules as necessary.
Regular reviews help you stay on top of things, ensuring your cleaning process continues to meet both guest expectations and operational demands.
Conclusion: Cleanliness as the Key to Happy Guests
Creating a solid cleaning schedule isn’t just about keeping things tidy - it’s about ensuring guests feel comfortable, cared for, and eager to return. Research from Breezeway highlights the stakes:
"A single stray hair or dusty surface can lead to a bad review that impacts your reputation" [3]
Modern property management goes beyond basic cleaning. Tools like Turno and Breezeway simplify the process, helping you handle turnovers effectively and leave no detail overlooked [2]. By following steps like dividing cleaning zones and using smart technology, you can ensure your property is always guest-ready.
The foundation of a great cleaning schedule lies in consistency, smart use of tools, and regular updates. By maintaining high cleanliness standards, you’ll not only meet guest expectations but also build a strong reputation that leads to glowing reviews and more bookings [1]. Keep your approach flexible, adapting to feedback, seasonal changes, and new insights to stay ahead.
FAQs
How long does it take to turn over Airbnb?
Airbnb turnovers generally take about 4 hours for a detailed cleaning [1]. However, the exact time depends on factors like the property's size, the number of guests, and the condition of the space. Having a team of cleaners can speed up the process while keeping the quality intact.
Here are a few ways to make turnovers more efficient:
| Strategy | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Professional Services | Use cleaning teams experienced in short-term rental requirements. |
| Digital Tools | Automate scheduling and track progress easily. |
| Clear Checklists | Ensure no detail is missed with a systematic cleaning approach. |
Platforms like Turno and Breezeway can simplify the process by automating schedules and tracking progress [2][3]. These tools are especially helpful for keeping quality consistent while reducing the time it takes to prepare for the next guest.
Tailor your cleaning schedule based on the property's size, guest turnover, and cleaner availability. This ensures a spotless space, leading to glowing reviews and repeat bookings [1]. The right mix of strategies and tools can keep your property ready for guests without cutting corners.
