Airbnb’s new cleaning protocol has shaken up the short-term rental industry. At Octomaids, we’ve seen firsthand how these changes impact hosts and guests alike.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the key elements of Airbnb’s enhanced cleaning process and what it means for property owners. We’ll explore the practical steps hosts need to take to comply with these new standards and maintain guest satisfaction.
What Does Airbnb’s New Cleaning Protocol Require?
Airbnb’s new cleaning protocol has transformed the short-term rental industry. This protocol introduces a rigorous 5-step process that hosts must follow between guest stays.
The 5-Step Enhanced Cleaning Process
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Prepare: This step involves ventilation of spaces during cleaning and gathering the right supplies. Hosts should stock up on EPA-approved disinfectants, microfiber cloths, and disposable gloves.
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Clean: A thorough cleaning of all surfaces removes dirt and debris. This step precedes disinfection for maximum effectiveness.
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Sanitize: Approved disinfectants should be applied to high-touch surfaces (doorknobs, light switches, remote controls). Product instructions for proper dwell time must be followed.
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Check: A careful review of the space ensures nothing was missed. Airbnb provides a room-by-room checklist for this purpose.
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Reset: This final step includes hand washing, glove disposal, and preparation of fresh linens and amenities for the next guest.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements
Airbnb now requires the use of masks and gloves during the cleaning process. This protects the cleaner and reassures guests. A Global Business Travel Association survey found that 70% of travelers prioritize properties with strong cleaning protocols.
Mandatory Waiting Period
A significant change is the introduction of a mandatory waiting period between guest stays. Airbnb recommends hosts wait 24 hours after a guest checks out before entering the space to clean. This buffer time allows airborne particles to settle, reducing risk for cleaning staff.
For hosts who can’t commit to the full protocol, Airbnb offers a “Booking Buffer” feature. This automatically blocks reservations for 72 hours between stays, providing an extra layer of safety.
These new protocols may increase cleaning time and costs for hosts. However, the long-term benefits are clear. Properties that adhere to these standards see increased bookings and improved reviews. Airbnb reports that listings with cleanliness ratings of 4.8 or higher receive 20% more bookings compared to those with lower scores.
These changes position hosts for success in the evolving short-term rental market. The next section will explore the key changes in cleaning practices that hosts need to implement to meet these new standards.
How to Implement Airbnb’s New Cleaning Standards
Airbnb’s new cleaning protocol requires a significant shift in property maintenance approaches. This change focuses on three key areas: enhanced sanitization, meticulous attention to high-touch surfaces, and the use of approved cleaning products.
Enhance Sanitization Efforts
The new protocol emphasizes sanitization and disinfection beyond traditional cleaning methods. Hosts must now use EPA-certified disinfectants on all surfaces after cleaning. To meet these standards, hosts should also provide guests with extra cleaning supplies.
To meet these standards, hosts should:
- Invest in quality microfiber cloths and EPA-approved disinfectants
- Apply disinfectants to clean surfaces
- Allow disinfectants to sit for the recommended contact time
This step eliminates harmful pathogens effectively.
Tackle High-Touch Surfaces
High-touch surfaces require special attention under the new protocol. These include doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, and handles.
We suggest creating a checklist of all high-touch surfaces in your property. This ensures no area is overlooked during the cleaning process. Pay extra attention to items like TV remotes and other frequently used devices.
Choose the Right Cleaning Products
Airbnb now requires hosts to use cleaning products approved by local regulatory agencies. In the United States, this means using EPA-registered disinfectants that are effective against COVID-19. The EPA provides a list of approved products on their website.
When selecting cleaning products, consider factors like:
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Effectiveness
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Safety
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Environmental impact
Many guests prefer eco-friendly options.
The implementation of these new standards may seem challenging, but the rewards are substantial. Properties that adhere to these protocols experience increased bookings and improved reviews. The next section will explore how these changes impact both hosts and guests in the Airbnb ecosystem.
How Airbnb’s New Protocol Affects Hosts and Guests
Airbnb’s enhanced cleaning protocol has transformed the short-term rental landscape. This shift in standards creates new challenges and opportunities for property owners.
Increased Cleaning Costs
The implementation of Airbnb’s new cleaning protocol has significantly increased the time and resources required for property turnover. This extra time translates to higher costs, with many hosts experiencing an increase in cleaning expenses.
To offset these costs, some hosts have raised their nightly rates or introduced separate cleaning fees. This approach requires careful consideration, as pricing remains a crucial factor in booking decisions. Hosts must balance covering their increased expenses with maintaining competitive rates.
Boosted Guest Confidence
Despite potential higher costs, Airbnb’s new cleaning standards have positively impacted guest confidence. This focus on hygiene has led to a notable shift in booking patterns.
Properties that prominently display their adherence to Airbnb’s enhanced cleaning protocol have experienced an increase in reservations. This trend underscores the importance of implementing the new standards and effectively communicating these efforts to potential guests.
Impact on Reviews and Ratings
The new cleaning protocol’s impact extends beyond initial bookings to guest reviews and host ratings. Cleanliness has always been a key component of guest satisfaction, but its importance has skyrocketed recently.
Conversely, hosts who consistently meet or exceed the new cleaning standards often see a boost in their overall ratings. This improvement in reviews can create a positive feedback loop, leading to increased visibility on the platform and, ultimately, more bookings.
Adapting to New Standards
To maximize the benefits of the new protocol, hosts should:
- Invest in quality cleaning supplies and equipment
- Train staff (if applicable) on the new cleaning procedures
- Update property listings to highlight enhanced cleaning measures
- Encourage guests to leave reviews that specifically mention cleanliness
These steps will help hosts adapt to the new standards and thrive in the evolving short-term rental market.
Professional Cleaning Services
Many hosts (particularly those managing multiple properties) have turned to professional cleaning services to meet Airbnb’s new standards. These services can save hosts time and ensure consistent compliance with the new standards.
Industry Outlook
According to the American Hotel & Lodging Association, the 2024 projection for U.S. hotel occupancy is expected to show a slight improvement over 2023’s level of 62.9%. This trend suggests that the hospitality industry, including short-term rentals, may continue to see growth in the coming year.
Final Thoughts
Airbnb’s new cleaning protocol has transformed the short-term rental industry. This change reflects evolving traveler expectations and emphasizes cleanliness in hospitality. Hosts who adopt these enhanced standards comply with Airbnb’s requirements and position themselves for success in a competitive market.
The benefits of implementing new cleaning practices extend beyond compliance. Properties that adhere to these standards often experience increased bookings, improved reviews, and higher guest satisfaction rates. This positive feedback can lead to greater visibility on the platform and increased revenue for hosts.
At Octomaids, we understand the unique challenges Airbnb hosts face. Our experienced professionals know Airbnb’s new cleaning protocol (ensuring your property meets these stringent standards). We help hosts maintain high cleanliness levels while saving time and effort.
