As a professional cleaning company specializing in Airbnb turnovers, we often hear questions from both guests and hosts about cleaning fees. One of the most common questions is: “Can you negotiate the cleaning fee on Airbnb?” Let’s dive into this topic and provide some clarity from our perspective as industry experts.
Understanding the Cleaning Fee
The cleaning fee is a one-time charge added to your reservation, intended to cover the cost of preparing the space for your stay. For Airbnb hosts, this fee often includes:
- Professional cleaning services.
- Supplies like detergent, paper towels, and toiletries.
- Maintenance tasks such as laundering linens and towels.
From the host’s perspective, the cleaning fee helps ensure that the property is guest-ready, no matter how short or long the stay.
Is the Cleaning Fee Negotiable?
In most cases, the cleaning fee is non-negotiable. Hosts set this fee to reflect the actual cost of cleaning and maintaining their property. Here’s why:
1. Fixed Costs for Professional Services
If a host hires a professional cleaning company (like us), they’re paying a fixed rate for our services. This rate is based on factors such as property size, level of cleanliness required, and frequency of turnovers. Lowering the fee might result in the host covering part of the cost out of their own pocket, which isn’t sustainable.
2. Consistency in Standards
A professional cleaning ensures a consistent, high standard for every guest. Skimping on cleaning costs might lead to a subpar experience, which could result in negative reviews for the host.
3. Transparency
Airbnb’s platform is built on transparency. The cleaning fee is disclosed upfront during the booking process, allowing guests to factor it into their decision-making.
Tips for Guests Concerned About Cleaning Fees
While negotiating the cleaning fee may not be an option, there are other ways to manage costs:
- Book Longer Stays The cleaning fee is a one-time charge, so it has a smaller impact on the overall cost of longer stays. For example, a $100 cleaning fee feels less significant over a week-long stay compared to a single night.
- Communicate with the Host If you have questions about the cleaning fee, feel free to ask the host. While they may not reduce the fee, they might provide insight into what the fee covers.
- Look for Listings with Lower Fees Some properties have lower cleaning fees than others. Use Airbnb’s search filters to find listings within your budget.
What About Hosts?
For hosts, setting the right cleaning fee is crucial. Overpricing can deter potential bookings, while underpricing might leave you covering costs out of pocket. Partnering with a reliable cleaning company ensures that your property is always guest-ready, providing value for both you and your guests.
Final Thoughts
Negotiating the cleaning fee on Airbnb is rare, and for good reason. The fee reflects the necessary work and materials required to maintain a high standard of hospitality. As a professional cleaning company, we’re here to support hosts in delivering exceptional guest experiences, ensuring every stay is as comfortable and welcoming as possible.
If you’re a host looking for reliable cleaning services or a guest curious about what goes into an Airbnb turnover, feel free to reach out. We’re happy to share our expertise and help make your Airbnb experience seamless and enjoyable!