Why Your Airbnb Cleaning Process Is Costing You Money (And How to Fix It)

🟦 Clean Isn’t Enough

You think your place is clean.
Your cleaner says it’s clean.
But your guests? They’re not so sure.

Even if they don’t say it to you directly, they’re saying it in reviews — and Airbnb is listening.

Bad cleaning = lower ratings = fewer bookings = less income.
Here’s how to fix the hidden leaks in your cleaning process — and stop losing money in the name of “clean.”

❌ Problem 1: You Don’t Have a Repeatable System

If you’re relying on your cleaner’s memory or “how we always do it,” you’re already in trouble.

No system = inconsistent experience = inconsistent reviews.

✅ Solution:

• Create a cleaning checklist that includes every detail (and update it as needed)
• Include visual references: photos of how pillows, towels, and even the coffee station should be arranged
• Make sure your cleaner signs off or checks the list every time

Don’t leave it to chance. Standardize it.

❌ Problem 2: You’re Relying on One Person

What happens if your cleaner gets sick? Cancels?
You scramble. You stress. You might even cancel a guest (which kills your ranking).

✅ Solution:

• Have at least two trained cleaners who know your space and checklist
• Use a tool like Turno (formerly TurnoverBnB) to automate assignments and backups
• Set up calendar sync between Airbnb and your cleaning team

A reliable system isn’t built on one person — it’s built on process.

❌ Problem 3: No Final Inspection = Bad Surprises

Even good cleaners miss things.
Toilet paper not replaced. Trash forgotten. Dirty mirror. And guess what?
Your guest finds it — and your 5-star average drops.

✅ Solution:

• If you can’t check the unit personally, assign a final visual check to someone else
• Add a buffer between check-out and check-in (even 1 hour helps)
• Set a pre-check-in message that includes:

“We just finished preparing the space for you — let us know how everything feels when you walk in!”
(This reminds your cleaner to double-check without blaming them.)

💸 Problem 4: Your Cleaner Is Spending Too Much Time

If cleaning is taking 3+ hours for a 1-bedroom unit… you’re bleeding money (or paying too much).

✅ Solution:

• Do a timed test: how long does it really take with a checklist?
• Eliminate tasks that don’t impact guest experience
• Bundle “deep clean” tasks monthly, not every stay
  
  Efficiency = more bookings per month without extra stress.

💡 Bonus Tip: Add a Signature Cleaning Touch

Guests expect clean. But they remember thoughtful.

Try this:

• A fresh scent diffuser in the bathroom
• Rolled towels tied with twine or ribbon
• A handwritten card that says:

“Cleaned with care — just for you. Enjoy your stay!”

🚀 Final Thought: A Clean System Is a Booked Calendar

Cleanliness is one of the top 3 reasons guests do or don’t book again.
But it’s not about how well you clean — it’s about how well you systematize it.

🎯 Want Us to Audit Your Turnover Process?

At W.A.R. Strategy Consulting, we help Airbnb hosts clean smarter, save money, and deliver unforgettable experiences — every time.

📅 Book your free 45-minute Turnover Audit here and we’ll help you fix what’s costing you money without even realizing it.