05 May COVID-19 Cleaning Checklist for Airbnb Hosts: How to keep your guests safe

Disclaimer: PassiveAirbnb.com is part of the Amazon Associates Program. We get a commission every time you buy something from these links. It helps to support our hungry writing staff. We also understand that some of the products we linked to may be currently unavailable. We recommend you seek an available alternative.

The Covid-19 pandemic has changed the course of 2020. But that doesn’t mean it needs to end your Airbnb business. With the right precautions, Airbnb businesses can continue to operate safely. In fact, many Airbnbs are currently operating – subject to local and national regulations.

Airbnb Hosting During Coronavirus

Many Airbnb’s continue to host during the coronavirus pandemic. They play a crucial role in housing guests who are stranded unexpectedly. Some properties are being booked for longer stays. Others are being used through the Frontline Stays program. This program allows Airbnbs to house essential workers. 

Whatever the reason, if you’re able to operate your Airbnb you no doubt have some concerns. It’s important to be conscious of the safety of yourself and your guests. 

Cleanliness has always been an important part of being a good host, and it matters now more than ever. Taking a note from Airbnb’s guidelines we’ve put together these cleaning checklists. Use these as a guide to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. From disinfecting to stocking the right supplies, here’s what you need to know.

Disinfect

While cleaning is important, it is not the same as disinfecting. Cleaning is great at removing dirt. But you need certain chemicals to remove germs and properly disinfect a surface. You should aim to do a usual deep clean, then disinfect surfaces. Household disinfectants registered by the Environmental Protection Agency are suitable. You can also use cleaning solutions with diluted household bleach or at least 70% alcohol. The CDC believes these are effective against the coronavirus. 

We know some disinfectant products have sold out during the Covid-19 outbreak. We understand it can be hard and frustrating right now to get hold of the right product. But it’s very important you choose an appropriate disinfecting cleaning product. Here are some essentials you will need for disinfecting. You should disinfect your whole house, especially surfaces. Don’t forget to clean high touch areas such as light switches and door handles!

Disinfectant Checklist

1. Concentrated Disinfectant
2. Disinfectant Wipes
3. Bleach 
4. Cleaning Products
5. Cleaning cloths

Wash Linens

During the Coronavirus outbreak, everything needs cleaning before having a new guest. And we mean everything. That includes soft furnishings and linens. You should even clean things that you don’t usually wash in between every guest. While you usually wash bed linens, you should also clean carpets, rugs, towels, and curtains. And don’t forget to clean and disinfect laundry baskets and hampers. Use a high-temperature setting when doing laundry. Don’t touch laundry with bare hands. Wash hands, wear gloves and avoid touching your face when handling linens.

Linen Cleaning Checklist 

1. Carpet Steamer
2. Laundry Detergent
3. Fabric Softener
4. Laundry Baskets
5. Curtain Cleaner
6. New, fresh Shower Curtain

Ventilate

Ventilation is an important part of germ control. It is important to open doors and windows for ventilation when cleaning. This will create fresh airflow and release dangerous fumes from chemical disinfectants. Humidity may also increase mold, which can exacerbate respiratory issues. The CDC recommends opening outside doors and windows. You should use ventilating fans to increase air circulation. Do this in the space before beginning to clean and disinfect.

Ventilation Checklist

1. Dehumidifier
2. Fans

Personal Protective Equipment for Covid-19

You have probably read a lot recently about PPE or “personal protective equipment”. These are important items to use when cleaning an Airbnb. We discourage buying products that frontline workers need, such as N95 Masks. But, when cleaning your property you should wear gloves and a mask. Gloves are very important when cleaning. They prevent the spread of germs and protect your skin from strong chemicals. It’s also important to wear a mask or face covering so you don’t unwittingly spread any of your germs in the property. You should also wash your hands or sanitize often. Here are some essential personal protective items.

PPE Checklist:

1. Wet Wipes
2. Face Masks
3. Gloves
4. Aprons 

Hygiene Essentials

It’s important you help guests maintain a high standard of cleanliness and hygiene. This will help them stay safe while staying in your property. Make sure your space is well-stocked with these essentials:

Hygiene Checklist

1. Hand Soap
2. Hand Sanitizer 
3. Toilet Paper
4. Trash Liners
5. Paper towels 
6. Facial Tissue
7. Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and soap dispensers

More Tips For Airbnb Hosts During The Covid-19 Pandemic

The CDC recommends waiting 24 hours between guests if there is a risk of COVID-19 exposure. So keep in touch with your guests. Ask for an open and honest conversation should they experience any symptoms. Keep a buffer stand-down period just to be on the safe side.

Hosts partnering with Airbnb’s Frontline Stays must wait 72 hours between reservations.  This wait time includes the 24-hour waiting period. You must wait to clean and disinfect all areas accessible to the guest. This will allow an extra buffer for safety.

Don’t forget to mention your enhanced cleaning routine in your listing description. Detail your extra cleaning precautions. But, be careful not to make any false claims for being “Coronavirus free”.

In May Airbnb is due to launch new cleaning protocols. Subscribe to our blog for further updates and guidance. We’ll help guide you through hosting during this challenging period.