Airbnb’s Cleaning Protocol Program has become a cornerstone of trust and safety in the short-term rental industry. At Octomaids, we’ve seen firsthand how this program has transformed the way hosts approach cleanliness and guest satisfaction.
Implementing these protocols not only ensures a safer environment for guests but also boosts your property’s appeal and bookings. In this post, we’ll guide you through the essential steps to effectively adopt Airbnb’s cleaning standards and maintain compliance.
What Is Airbnb’s Cleaning Protocol Program?
Airbnb’s Cleaning Protocol Program sets the standard for cleanliness in the short-term rental industry. This comprehensive set of guidelines, introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, has become a critical factor in maintaining guest trust and safety.
The Five-Step Cleaning Process
The program centers around a rigorous five-step process:
- Prepare
- Clean
- Sanitize
- Check
- Reset
This systematic approach ensures thorough cleaning and sanitization of every property between guest stays.
Key Components of the Protocol
The protocol requires hosts to use EPA-approved disinfectants and pay special attention to high-touch surfaces (such as doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls). A Global Business Travel Association study found that 70% of travelers now prioritize accommodations with strict cleaning protocols, underscoring the program’s importance.
Hosts must implement a waiting period of at least 24 hours between guest stays. This aligns with CDC recommendations and allows for proper ventilation, reducing the risk of airborne particles.
Benefits for Hosts and Guests
Adherence to the Cleaning Protocol Program offers significant advantages for hosts. Cleaning fees, set by hosts, cover the cost of cleaning the property and can significantly affect guest reviews and booking activity.
Guests benefit from the assurance of staying in a meticulously cleaned and sanitized space. The American Hotel & Lodging Association reports that 81% of frequent travelers consider cleanliness vital for repeat bookings. This indicates that hosts who maintain high standards are more likely to receive positive reviews and repeat business.
Impact on the Short-Term Rental Market
The introduction of this program has transformed the short-term rental landscape. Hosts who diligently follow these protocols not only meet guest expectations but often exceed them. This results in improved ratings and a stronger competitive position in the market.
As we move forward, understanding how to implement these protocols effectively will be key to success in the Airbnb hosting world. Let’s explore the essential steps for putting these guidelines into practice.
How to Implement Airbnb’s Cleaning Protocol
Implementing Airbnb’s Cleaning Protocol is essential for maintaining high standards and ensuring guest satisfaction. This guide will help you excel in your hosting journey by following these best practices.
Prepare Your Space
Start by ventilating the property. Open all windows and doors for at least 20 minutes before you begin cleaning. This step reduces airborne particles and creates a safer environment for cleaning staff. The CDC recommends this practice to minimize the risk of exposure to potential contaminants.
Next, gather all necessary cleaning supplies. Stock up on EPA-approved disinfectants, microfiber cloths, and disposable gloves. A study by the American Hotel and Lodging Association found that 94% of guests expect to see visible evidence of enhanced cleaning protocols, so having the right equipment on hand is important.
Execute a Thorough Cleaning Process
Start with a top-to-bottom approach in each room. Dust ceiling fans, light fixtures, and high shelves before moving to lower surfaces. This prevents re-contamination of already cleaned areas.
Pay special attention to soft surfaces like carpets and upholstery. The National Institutes of Health reports that some viruses can live on these surfaces for up to 24 hours. Vacuum thoroughly and consider steam cleaning for deeper sanitization.
In the kitchen and bathroom, use hot, soapy water to clean all surfaces before disinfecting. This two-step process is more effective than disinfecting alone, according to the EPA.
Focus on High-Touch Areas
Sanitizing high-touch surfaces is critical. A study in the Journal of Hospital Infection found that coronaviruses can persist on surfaces like metal, glass, or plastic for up to 9 days. Concentrate on doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, and faucet handles.
Use disinfectant sprays or wipes, ensuring the surface remains wet for the recommended contact time (usually between 30 seconds to 10 minutes, depending on the product). This dwell time is necessary for effective germ elimination.
Proper Use of Cleaning Products
Always follow manufacturer instructions for cleaning products. Mixing certain chemicals can be dangerous. For instance, combining bleach with ammonia or vinegar creates toxic fumes.
When using disinfectants, wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). This includes gloves and, in some cases, eye protection or masks. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) emphasizes the importance of PPE in preventing exposure to harmful chemicals.
Change your cleaning cloths frequently to avoid cross-contamination between rooms. The World Health Organization recommends using a new cloth for each space to prevent the spread of germs.
Maintain Consistency and Documentation
Create a cleaning checklist to ensure you cover all areas consistently. This helps track your progress and maintain high standards across all cleaning sessions. Keep records of your cleaning activities, including dates, times, and specific tasks completed. This documentation can be valuable for addressing any guest concerns and demonstrating your commitment to cleanliness.
As you master these implementation steps, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the next challenge: maintaining compliance with Airbnb’s Cleaning Protocol over the long term.
How to Stay Compliant with Airbnb’s Cleaning Protocol
Maintaining compliance with Airbnb’s Cleaning Protocol requires attention to detail and consistent effort. This chapter outlines key strategies to ensure long-term compliance and success.
Create a Comprehensive Cleaning Checklist
A detailed cleaning checklist prevents the oversight of important cleaning tasks. Develop a room-by-room checklist that covers every aspect of Airbnb’s cleaning protocol. Include specific items like “disinfect doorknobs” and “sanitize remote controls” to ensure thorough cleaning of high-touch surfaces.
Properties with consistent cleaning practices see an increase in positive reviews. Make your checklist easily accessible to all cleaning staff and update it regularly to reflect changes in Airbnb’s guidelines or industry best practices.
Invest in Staff Training
Proper training is essential if you work with a cleaning team. Organize regular training sessions to cover the latest cleaning techniques, proper use of disinfectants, and updates to Airbnb’s protocols. Implement a buddy system for new staff members, pairing them with experienced cleaners for on-the-job learning.
Implement Rigorous Documentation
Keeping detailed records of your cleaning activities is important for maintaining compliance and addressing potential issues. Use digital tools to track cleaning schedules, completed tasks, and maintenance issues discovered during cleaning. This documentation proves invaluable if Airbnb requests proof of compliance or if a guest raises concerns about cleanliness.
Stay Updated and Adapt
The cleaning landscape evolves constantly, especially in the wake of global health concerns. Set up alerts for updates from Airbnb and health organizations like the CDC to stay informed about new recommendations or requirements. Prepare to adjust your protocols quickly in response to new guidelines.
Review your cleaning processes regularly and seek feedback from your cleaning staff and guests. This proactive approach helps you identify areas for improvement before they become issues.
Choose a Reliable Cleaning Service
If managing the cleaning process yourself becomes overwhelming, consider partnering with a professional cleaning service. Some services specialize in Airbnb cleaning and understand the specific requirements of Airbnb’s Cleaning Protocol. They provide trained staff, use appropriate cleaning products, and maintain detailed cleaning logs, ensuring your property consistently meets Airbnb’s standards.
Final Thoughts
Airbnb’s Cleaning Protocol Program represents a commitment to excellence in hospitality. Hosts who follow these guidelines create safer, more welcoming spaces for guests. Properties that maintain high cleanliness standards often experience increased bookings, better reviews, and higher occupancy rates.
The impact of these protocols extends throughout the entire Airbnb ecosystem. As more hosts adopt these standards, it elevates the overall quality of the platform. This builds trust with travelers and solidifies Airbnb’s position as a leader in the hospitality industry.
Hosts who find implementing these protocols challenging can turn to professional cleaning services. Octomaids specializes in Airbnb cleaning, ensuring properties meet Airbnb’s cleanliness standards. Our team uses eco-friendly products and provides detailed documentation of each cleaning session (subject to availability).
