How to Remove Common Stains Found in Airbnb Rentals

Operating an Airbnb comes with many responsibilities, and maintaining a clean, welcoming environment for guests is a top priority. Stains, unfortunately, are inevitable. From coffee spills to wine splashes, they can occur at any time and often feel like a nightmare to clean. To help Airbnb hosts, here is a comprehensive guide on how to tackle the most common stains found in vacation rentals and restore your property to pristine condition.

1. Coffee and Tea Stains

Coffee and tea are among the most common stains in any home, especially in Airbnbs where guests frequently enjoy beverages on sofas, carpets, or bedding.

Steps to Remove Coffee/Tea Stains:

1. Blot the Stain: Use a clean cloth or paper towel to blot the stain gently. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain.
2. Apply Cold Water: Run cold water through the back of the fabric to flush out as much of the stain as possible.
3. Use a Stain Remover: Apply a mixture of one teaspoon of white vinegar, one teaspoon of dish soap, and two cups of warm water. Dab the solution onto the stain using a sponge or cloth.
4. Rinse and Wash: Rinse with cold water and launder as usual. For carpets, blot with a clean, wet cloth until the solution is removed.

2. Wine Stains

A spilled glass of red wine can leave a mark that feels impossible to clean, but quick action is key.

Steps to Remove Wine Stains:

1. Blot Immediately: Use a dry cloth to blot up as much wine as possible.
2. Sprinkle Salt: Generously apply salt to the stain to absorb the liquid. Leave it for 10-15 minutes.
3. Apply Cleaning Solution: Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and dish soap. Dab the solution onto the stain using a cloth or sponge.
4. Rinse and Launder: For fabrics, rinse with cold water and wash. For carpets, blot with a damp cloth until the stain is gone.

3. Grease and Oil Stains

Cooking mishaps or greasy food spills can leave unsightly marks on furniture and fabrics.

Steps to Remove Grease/Oil Stains:

1. Blot Excess Grease: Use a paper towel to soak up any excess grease.
2. Sprinkle Baking Soda or Cornstarch: Apply a generous amount to the stain to absorb the oil. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then vacuum it up.
3. Apply Dish Soap: Dab a small amount of dish soap directly onto the stain and gently work it in with your fingers or a soft brush.
4. Rinse and Wash: For washable fabrics, rinse thoroughly and launder. For upholstery, use a damp cloth to blot the area clean.

4. Ink Stains

Pens and markers can leave ink stains that are notoriously difficult to remove, especially on light fabrics or surfaces.

Steps to Remove Ink Stains:

1. Dab with Alcohol: Soak a cotton ball or cloth with rubbing alcohol and gently dab the stain. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the ink.
2. Use a Stain Remover: Apply a commercial ink remover or a mixture of one part dish soap and one part vinegar.
3. Rinse Thoroughly: For fabrics, rinse under cold water and wash. For upholstery, blot with a damp cloth until clean.

5. Blood Stains

Accidents can happen, and bloodstains require prompt attention to avoid permanent damage.

Steps to Remove Blood Stains:

1. Rinse with Cold Water: Never use hot water, as it can set the stain. Rinse with cold water to remove as much blood as possible.
2. Apply Hydrogen Peroxide: Dab hydrogen peroxide directly onto the stain. It will bubble and lift the blood. Blot with a clean cloth.
3. Launder or Blot: For fabrics, wash as usual. For carpets or upholstery, blot with a damp cloth until the stain is removed.

6. Makeup Stains

Foundation, mascara, and lipstick are common culprits for stains in Airbnb properties.

Steps to Remove Makeup Stains:

1. Blot Excess Makeup: Use a dry cloth to remove as much of the makeup as possible.
2. Apply Dish Soap: Mix one teaspoon of dish soap with two cups of warm water. Dab the solution onto the stain.
3. Rinse and Wash: Rinse the fabric thoroughly and launder. For upholstery, blot with a damp cloth to remove the soap solution.

7. Food Stains (Tomato Sauce, Curry, etc.)

Sauces and colorful foods like curry or tomato-based dishes can leave stubborn stains.

Steps to Remove Food Stains:

1. Scrape Off Excess: Use a spoon or dull knife to remove excess food.
2. Apply Vinegar Solution: Mix one tablespoon of white vinegar with two cups of warm water. Dab the solution onto the stain.
3. Rinse and Wash: For fabrics, rinse with cold water and wash. For carpets, blot with a damp cloth until the stain disappears.

8. Pet Stains (Urine, Vomit, etc.)

If you allow pets in your Airbnb, occasional accidents are to be expected.

Steps to Remove Pet Stains:

1. Blot Immediately: Use paper towels to soak up as much liquid as possible.
2. Apply Enzymatic Cleaner: Use a pet-safe enzymatic cleaner to break down the proteins in the stain.
3. Rinse and Dry: For fabrics, rinse with cold water and wash. For carpets or upholstery, blot with a damp cloth until clean.

9. Mud and Dirt Stains

Guests coming in from outdoor activities can track mud and dirt onto carpets or upholstery.

Steps to Remove Mud/Dirt Stains:

1. Let Mud Dry: Allow the mud to dry completely before cleaning.
2. Vacuum: Use a vacuum cleaner to remove dried dirt and debris.
3. Spot Clean: Mix one teaspoon of dish soap with two cups of warm water. Dab the solution onto the stain.
4. Blot Dry: Use a dry cloth to blot away excess moisture.

10. Sweat and Deodorant Stains

Sheets, pillowcases, and towels often accumulate sweat or deodorant stains over time.

Steps to Remove Sweat/Deodorant Stains:

1. Pre-Treat with Baking Soda: Mix baking soda and water into a paste and apply it to the stain. Let it sit for 30 minutes.
2. Wash with Vinegar: Add one cup of white vinegar to the washing machine along with your usual detergent.
3. Air Dry: Dry the items in sunlight to naturally bleach out any remaining stains.

Tips for Preventing Stains in Your Airbnb

• Use Stain-Resistant Fabrics: Invest in furniture and linens that are designed to resist stains.
• Provide Cleaning Supplies: Keep basic cleaning supplies, like paper towels and stain removers, easily accessible for guests.
• Set Clear Rules: Encourage guests to eat and drink in designated areas to minimize spills.
• Schedule Professional Cleanings: Hire professional cleaners regularly to deep clean your property and tackle tougher stains.

By following these tips and techniques, Airbnb hosts can effectively handle stains and maintain a clean, welcoming environment for guests. With a proactive approach and the right tools, you can keep your rental looking fresh and inviting, helping you earn glowing reviews and repeat bookings.

P.S. Try our Airbnb cleaning service to get peace of mind and receive 5-star cleaning reviews.