When it comes to short-term rental (STR) properties, cleanliness is non-negotiable. As a host, you want your guests to walk into a pristine environment that feels welcoming and comfortable. While most cleaners do a good job, there are a few crucial areas they often overlook, leading to less-than-ideal guest experiences and even negative reviews. Understanding these gaps can help you improve your cleaning processes and provide a superior stay for your guests.
Here are the top three things most STR cleaners miss, and how you can ensure they’re properly addressed.
1. Behind and Under Furniture
It’s easy to overlook areas that are out of sight, but behind and under furniture are prime locations for dust, debris, and forgotten items. From crumbs to hair, these spots tend to collect dirt without us noticing. Your guests will surely notice, though, especially if they’re doing something as simple as sitting on the floor or looking for something that fell under the bed or couch.
Why it matters:
- It impacts the cleanliness and comfort of the space.
- Guests expect a flawless environment, including areas that aren’t always in the direct line of sight.
How to fix it:
- Make sure to move furniture at least once during each cleaning cycle, or even better, after every check-out.
- Vacuum, sweep, or mop beneath couches, beds, tables, and other large furniture pieces.
- Use a microfiber cloth or dusting brush to clean behind the furniture, making sure not to leave any dust or cobwebs behind.
2. Air Vents and Filters
Air vents and filters are often ignored during routine cleaning, but they play a significant role in maintaining air quality and the overall comfort of your STR. Dust and dirt can accumulate in the vents, causing a stuffy atmosphere, or even worse, making your air conditioning or heating units work harder than they need to, which can result in higher energy bills. Guests may also notice poor air quality if the filters are clogged.
Why it matters:
- Poor air quality can lead to uncomfortable stays or even complaints from guests with allergies.
- Dirty vents can affect the efficiency of HVAC systems, leading to increased energy costs.
How to fix it:
- Check and clean air vents regularly, especially if they’re located near high-traffic areas like bedrooms or living rooms.
- Replace HVAC filters every few months (or more frequently, depending on usage), and remind your cleaners to check them during each turnover.
- Use a vacuum with a hose attachment to clean vents, and wipe down the surrounding area with a damp cloth to catch any dust buildup.
3. High-Touch Surfaces
While surfaces like countertops and tables often get the attention they deserve, high-touch areas such as light switches, door handles, remote controls, and cabinet pulls are frequently overlooked. These surfaces are constantly being touched by guests, making them prime spots for germs, bacteria, and fingerprints. Neglecting to clean these areas thoroughly can create an unpleasant experience for guests, especially in the post-pandemic era when cleanliness is top of mind.
Why it matters:
- Guests will notice if these areas are neglected, and they may even leave feedback regarding the lack of attention to detail.
- Proper cleaning of high-touch surfaces helps reduce the spread of germs, keeping your guests healthier.
How to fix it:
- During each cleaning, focus on thoroughly wiping down all high-touch surfaces, including light switches, doorknobs, remotes, and drawer pulls.
- Use a disinfectant spray or wipes that are effective against germs to ensure these areas are properly sanitized.
- Don’t forget about the inside of cabinets, drawers, and appliances—areas that are often touched but rarely cleaned.
Conclusion
As a short-term rental host, the small details matter. Even though most cleaners do a good job, overlooking certain areas can affect guest satisfaction and impact your reviews. By ensuring that your cleaning staff addresses behind furniture, air vents, and high-touch surfaces, you’ll elevate the guest experience and maintain a property that guests rave about.
Investing in a comprehensive cleaning checklist that covers these often-missed areas will pay off in the long run, as your guests will appreciate the attention to detail, and you’ll reduce the risk of negative feedback. Cleaner properties lead to better reviews, higher ratings, and ultimately, a more successful STR business.