Great hosting isn’t just about having a place to sleep—it’s about creating an experience that makes guests feel welcome, comfortable, and eager to leave a glowing review. That’s where a well-structured Airbnb host checklist comes in. Whether you’re setting up an Airbnb for the first time or fine-tuning your hosting strategy, this guide covers everything you need to impress your guests, earn great reviews, and maximize bookings.
Setting Up an Airbnb: Essentials’ Checklist
A well-organized Airbnb host checklist ensures that your property is guest-ready, clean, and well-maintained. Below is a categorized breakdown covering everything you need for a successful Airbnb rental.
1. Guest Essentials Checklist
✅ Fresh linens & towels
✅ High-speed Wi-Fi & streaming services
✅ Fully stocked kitchen
✅ Complimentary tea & coffee
✅ Comfortable seating & workspace
✅ Smart lock or keyless entry
✅ Guest welcome book
2. Cleaning & Hygiene Supplies Checklist
✅ Multi-surface cleaner & disinfectant wipes
✅ Vacuum cleaner & mop
✅ Laundry detergent & stain remover
✅ Extra garbage bags & recycling bins
✅ Air fresheners or odor eliminators
✅ Toilet paper, paper towels & tissues
✅ Sponges & dish soap
3. Safety & Security Checklist
✅ Smoke detectors & carbon monoxide alarms
✅ Fire extinguisher & first-aid kit
✅ Secure locks & window latches
✅ Emergency contact list
✅ Outdoor lighting & security cameras
4. Maintenance & Property Upkeep Checklist
✅ Check HVAC & appliances regularly
✅ Fix plumbing leaks or clogs
✅ Replace light bulbs & batteries in remotes
✅ Inspect furniture for damage
✅ Restock Airbnb supplies
5. Post-Guest Departure Checklist
✅ Check for missing/damaged items
✅ Deep clean high-touch surfaces
✅ Replenish toiletries & supplies
✅ Leave a review for guests
1. Guest Essentials Checklist: Make Guests Feel at Home
Fresh linens & towels
Clean, soft sheets and fresh towels are the first things guests notice. Make sure every bed is neatly made with high-quality linens. Provide at least two towels per guest—one for the shower, one for hands and face. Keep extras on hand for longer stays. A cozy throw blanket on the couch? Bonus points. These are small but important Airbnb essentials that leave a lasting impression.
High-speed Wi-Fi & streaming services
Nobody wants to deal with spotty internet. Make sure your Wi-Fi is fast and reliable, especially if you host remote workers. Write the login details clearly on a welcome card. If you have Netflix, Disney+, or other streaming services, mention it! Guests love easy entertainment. A strong internet connection is a must-have on any Airbnb checklist for hosts.
Fully stocked kitchen
A great Airbnb kitchen has the basics: plates, glasses, utensils, and a few pots and pans. But what really impresses guests? Stocking essentials like cooking oil, salt, and pepper. Throw in a cutting board, a sharp knife, and a bottle opener, and you’re golden. If you really want to go the extra mile, leave out a few snacks or bottled water. These small touches elevate your Airbnb host checklist and make guests feel at home.
Complimentary tea & coffee
Morning caffeine is a must. Offer coffee (ground, pods, or instant) with sugar and creamer. Keep tea options, too—some guests prefer a soothing cup over coffee. A little coffee station with mugs, stirrers, and a kettle makes the experience feel extra welcoming. Every checklist for Airbnb should include beverage essentials, as they enhance the guest experience.
Comfortable seating & workspace
A comfortable couch and a proper chair make all the difference. Whether guests are relaxing with a book or working remotely, they’ll appreciate a cozy setup. If space allows, add a small desk and a power strip for charging devices. Even a sturdy dining table can double as a workspace. When setting up an Airbnb, keep in mind that more guests are looking for work-friendly spaces.
Smart lock or keyless entry
Self-check-in is a lifesaver. A smart lock with a code makes it easy for guests to enter anytime without waiting for keys. If you use a key, keep a lockbox outside so guests can grab it easily. Change codes between stays for security. Including a secure entry system in your Airbnb checklist for hosts makes check-ins seamless and stress-free.
Guest welcome book
Leave a printed guide with Wi-Fi details, check-in/out instructions, and house rules. Guests also appreciate restaurant recommendations, emergency contacts, and a list of nearby attractions. A few handwritten tips about your favorite local spots make it feel more personal. A well-prepared guest book is a crucial part of an Airbnb host checklist and sets a positive tone for the stay.
2. Cleaning & Hygiene Supplies Checklist
Multi-surface cleaner & disinfectant wipes
Your Airbnb should feel spotless. Keep an all-purpose cleaner under the sink so guests can clean up small spills. Disinfectant wipes are great for quick touch-ups on countertops and tables. A well-stocked cleaning supply kit is key to a successful Airbnb host cleaning checklist.
Vacuum cleaner & mop
If you have carpet, a vacuum is essential. For hardwood or tile, keep a mop handy. Guests might not use them, but your cleaning crew will. If you allow pets, invest in a vacuum that handles pet hair. Regular cleaning keeps your rental in top shape and ensures you meet Airbnb’s cleanliness standards. This should be included in every Airbnb host checklist.
Laundry detergent & stain remover
Long-term guests will appreciate access to laundry detergent. Even for short stays, it’s good to have stain remover in case of spills. Keep a small bottle near the washer or in a laundry basket. A well-maintained Airbnb checklist for hosts includes keeping linens fresh and stain-free.
Extra garbage bags & recycling bins
Make waste disposal easy. Have labeled bins for trash and recycling, and keep extra garbage bags in a visible spot. This way, guests won’t leave trash overflowing in the bin. A clutter-free rental keeps your Airbnb host cleaning checklist running smoothly.
Toilet paper, paper towels & tissues
Running out of toilet paper is the worst. Always stock extra rolls in a cabinet or shelf where guests can easily find them. The same goes for tissues and paper towels. These are must-haves in any Airbnb essentials list.
Sponges & dish soap
If guests are using your kitchen, they’ll need a way to clean up. Provide a fresh sponge, dish soap, and a drying rack. If you have a dishwasher, leave some detergent pods and instructions. A clean kitchen is a priority on every Airbnb host cleaning checklist.
3. Safety & Security Checklist
Smoke detectors & carbon monoxide alarms
These are non-negotiable. Install smoke detectors in key areas like bedrooms and hallways. A carbon monoxide alarm should be near any gas-powered appliances. Test them monthly and replace batteries as needed. A dead battery at the wrong time could set off an alarm and freak out your guests.
Fire extinguisher & first-aid kit
Place a fire extinguisher in the kitchen—this is where most fires start. Make sure it’s labeled and easy to access. A first-aid kit should be fully stocked with bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and burn cream. Accidents happen, and having the basics on hand is a lifesaver.
Secure locks & window latches
Double-check that all exterior doors have secure deadbolts. Windows should lock properly, especially if you’re on a ground floor or in a busy neighborhood. If you have a sliding glass door, install a security bar to prevent forced entry. Your guests should feel safe whether they’re inside or out exploring.
Emergency contact list
Print out a list of emergency numbers and post it somewhere obvious—like the fridge or entryway. Include police, fire, and the nearest hospital. Don’t forget to add your own contact information or your property manager’s. If something goes wrong, guests need to know who to call.
Outdoor lighting & security cameras
A well-lit entryway makes guests feel safer, especially for late check-ins. Motion sensor lights help deter trespassers. If you use security cameras, place them only outside—never inside. Let guests know they’re there for added transparency.
4. Maintenance & Property Upkeep Checklist
Little problems turn into big problems when ignored. Regular maintenance keeps your place in top shape and prevents expensive repairs.
Check HVAC & appliances regularly
A broken AC in the middle of summer? A fridge that stops working overnight? That’s a nightmare for guests. Test heating, cooling, and major appliances between stays. Schedule seasonal HVAC maintenance to prevent unexpected breakdowns.
Fix plumbing leaks or clogs
A dripping faucet isn’t just annoying—it’s wasting money. Check for leaks under sinks and ensure drains are clear. Keep a plunger in the bathroom in case guests need it. A clogged toilet at midnight isn’t a fun experience for anyone.
Replace light bulbs & batteries in remotes
Dim lighting can make your place feel neglected. Walk through your Airbnb before each guest arrives and replace any burned-out bulbs. Test TV remotes, keypads, and smart locks to ensure they’re working. Keep extra batteries in a drawer so guests can swap them out if needed.
Inspect furniture for damage
A wobbly chair or a loose bed frame can be more than just an annoyance—it can be a liability. Look over all furniture and tighten any screws. If something is heavily worn or broken, replace it before it causes an issue.
Restock Airbnb supplies
Running low on toilet paper, shampoo, or dish soap? Replenish everything before guests arrive. Keeping an inventory list makes this process easier. A well-stocked Airbnb prevents complaints and unnecessary store runs.
5. Post-Guest Departure Checklist: Prepare for the Next Booking
Check for missing/damaged items
Before doing anything else, do a walkthrough. Look for missing kitchenware, broken decor, or stained towels. If something is damaged, document it with photos and report it to Airbnb if necessary. Strip all beds and inspect linens before throwing them in the wash. Treat stains immediately—waiting makes them harder to remove. Have an extra set of sheets ready so you’re never scrambling before a last-minute booking.
Deep clean high-touch surfaces
Even if the place looks clean, germs linger. Wipe down light switches, door handles, remote controls, and countertops with disinfectant. These little details make a big difference in keeping things sanitary.
Replenish toiletries & supplies
Restock shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. Replace used coffee pods, sugar packets, and dish soap. Guests expect these little conveniences, and keeping them stocked sets you apart from other hosts.
Leave a review for guests
A quick review helps build your Airbnb profile. If the guest was great, mention it! If there were issues, keep it professional. Your review influences whether future hosts accept that guest, and their review affects your ranking too.
Parting Thoughts
Running an Airbnb is more than just listing your property and waiting for bookings. A well-prepared rental means happy guests, great reviews, and repeat visitors. Whether you’re setting up an Airbnb for the first time or fine-tuning your hosting game, this Airbnb host checklist will ensure your space is guest-ready every time. And if you want to make hosting effortless, Home Again’s Airbnb Management can take care of it all for you.