Managing an Airbnb can be a rewarding business, but it’s not without its challenges. One of the most stressful situations you can face is when your cleaner doesn’t show up, especially with guests scheduled to arrive soon. Here are some practical steps you can take to resolve the issue and avoid it in the future.
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The first step is to remain calm. Panicking won’t solve the problem, and you’ll need a clear head to act quickly. Reach out to your cleaner immediately to confirm whether they’re delayed, sick, or simply forgot. Miscommunications can happen, and understanding the situation helps you determine your next move.
2. Contact Backup Cleaning Options
Having a backup plan is essential for Airbnb hosts. If your primary cleaner is unavailable:
- Call a Backup Cleaner: If you’ve established a relationship with a secondary cleaner or cleaning service, now is the time to contact them.
- Hire a Professional Cleaning Service: Use platforms like TaskRabbit, Thumbtack, or Handy to find professional cleaners in your area.
- Reach Out to Local Cleaning Companies: Many local businesses offer same-day cleaning services.
3. Consider DIY Cleaning
If time is critical and no professional cleaner is available, consider cleaning the property yourself. Focus on:
- Bathrooms and Kitchen: These are the areas guests notice most.
- Fresh Linens: Make sure all beds are made with clean sheets and towels are ready.
- Quick Dusting and Vacuuming: A quick once-over can significantly improve the space.
Make a checklist to ensure nothing is overlooked and prioritize high-traffic areas.
4. Communicate with Guests
If a delay is unavoidable, transparency with your guests is key:
- Update Them Proactively: Let them know there’s been an unexpected issue but that you’re actively resolving it.
- Offer Compensation: Consider a small gesture like a discount, late checkout, or a gift card to ease their inconvenience.
Guests appreciate honesty and will likely be understanding if you handle the situation professionally.
5. Evaluate and Adjust for the Future
Once the immediate issue is resolved, take steps to prevent this from happening again:
- Build a Reliable Cleaning Network: Have multiple cleaners or services on standby.
- Schedule Regular Check-Ins: Communicate with your cleaner a day or two before each cleaning to confirm their availability.
- Invest in Training or SOPs: If you have a dedicated cleaning team, provide them with clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to follow.
- Use Cleaning Management Tools: Platforms like TurnoverBnB or Properly can help automate scheduling and ensure accountability.
Conclusion
While a no-show cleaner can be a major inconvenience, having a contingency plan can turn a potential disaster into a manageable situation. By preparing in advance, communicating effectively, and learning from the experience, you can keep your Airbnb running smoothly and maintain a positive guest experience.
Need help with reliable cleaning services? Cleanbnb is here to ensure your rental stays spotless and guest-ready, no matter the circumstances. Contact us today to learn more!