10 Reasons Guests Think Your Airbnb Is Dirty (And How to Fix Them)

One of the quickest ways to receive negative reviews and lose potential guests is by offering an Airbnb that isn’t as clean or well-maintained as expected. Cleanliness and proper upkeep are top priorities for guests, and even minor issues can lead to dissatisfaction. But what exactly makes guests think your Airbnb is dirty or unappealing? Let’s explore the common reasons and how to ensure your property exceeds guest expectations.

1. Unclean Bathrooms

The bathroom is often the first place guests check when judging cleanliness. Common complaints include dirty toilets, sinks, showers, and mirrors. Even a small amount of mildew, soap scum, or hair can make a guest feel uncomfortable.

Solution: Thoroughly clean the bathroom between stays. Use disinfectants on all surfaces, scrub grout and tiles, and ensure there are no water stains on mirrors or glass. Stock the bathroom with fresh, clean towels and toiletries.

2. Dust and Dirt on Surfaces

Dusty surfaces can leave guests feeling like your property hasn’t been properly cleaned. This includes countertops, shelves, window sills, and light fixtures.

Solution: Dust all surfaces, including hard-to-reach areas like ceiling fans and baseboards. Wipe down countertops, tables, and shelves to ensure there’s no visible dirt or dust.

3. Stained or Dirty Bedding

Bedding is critical in making guests feel comfortable. Stained sheets, unclean pillowcases, or blankets that don’t smell fresh can quickly lead to negative feedback.

Solution: Always use freshly laundered, professionally cleaned linens with pressed sheets and pillowcases. Invest in high-quality bedding and replace it regularly. Check for any stains or wear and ensure bedding is free from odors.

4. Kitchen Hygiene Issues

A dirty kitchen can be a major turnoff, especially for guests who plan to cook. Common complaints include dirty dishes, greasy stovetops, or food residue in appliances.

Solution: Clean the kitchen thoroughly after each guest. Ensure all dishes, utensils, and appliances are spotless. Wipe down countertops, the stove, and inside the microwave and fridge. Empty the trash and provide fresh cleaning supplies.

5. Floors and Carpets

Dirty floors, stained carpets, or sticky surfaces can ruin the guest experience. If guests can feel dirt underfoot or see visible marks, they’re likely to consider your Airbnb dirty.

Solution: Vacuum carpets and sweep or mop hard floors between each stay. Pay attention to corners and high-traffic areas, as these tend to accumulate more dirt.

6. Lingering Odors

Even if your Airbnb looks clean, bad smells can leave a negative impression. Common odor issues include pet smells, mold, or stale air.

Solution: Air out your property after each stay and consider using air fresheners or natural deodorizers. Clean air conditioning filters regularly and remove any trash or leftover food before new guests arrive.

7. Dirty Windows and Mirrors

Smudged mirrors or windows covered in fingerprints can make an otherwise clean Airbnb look dirty.

Solution: Clean all windows and mirrors thoroughly, ensuring there are no streaks or marks. Guests appreciate clean windows that allow natural light to fill the space.

8. Exterior Cleanliness

The outside of your Airbnb is the first thing guests see. Cobwebs around doors and windows, overgrown gardens, or unmown lawns can set a negative tone.

Solution: Ensure the exterior is free of cobwebs and dirt, particularly around doors, windows, and outdoor seating areas. Keep the garden neat and tidy by regularly mowing the lawns and removing weeds. Sweep paths and outdoor spaces to keep them debris-free.

9. Broken Items Inside or Outside

Broken items, whether inside or outside, can make your property feel neglected and unappealing. This includes broken furniture, appliances, fixtures, or outdoor equipment.

Solution: Regularly inspect your property for any broken items and repair or replace them promptly. Ensure that all furniture is sturdy, appliances are functional, and fixtures like door handles and light switches are in good working order. Don’t forget to check outdoor items like patio furniture, fences, or grills.

10. Lack of Attention to Detail

Small details like fingerprints on light switches, crumbs in drawers, or dust on decor items can add up to create an overall impression of uncleanliness.

Solution: Pay attention to the small details during cleaning. Wipe down light switches, door handles, and remote controls. Check drawers and cabinets for debris. Ensure decorative items are dust-free.

Maintaining a Spotless Airbnb

Keeping your Airbnb immaculate not only improves guest satisfaction but also boosts your reviews and reputation. If you’re managing your property on your own, consider hiring professional cleaning services to maintain a high standard of cleanliness.

Providing clear instructions on how to use appliances and maintain the property during their stay can also help keep things in order. Using an online guidebook like Hostfully makes it easy to communicate these details with guests. You can see an example of my property guidebook for Bluewater here.

Conclusion

Guests expect a clean and well-maintained Airbnb, and failing to meet these expectations can lead to negative reviews and lost bookings. From spotless bathrooms and freshly laundered bedding to a tidy exterior and functional amenities, ensuring your property is thoroughly cleaned and maintained between stays is crucial.

To ensure your Airbnb stays in top shape and to alleviate the stress of managing everything yourself, consider professional management services. You can get a free consultation here, and for more tips and insights, download our free eBook here.