The Ultimate Airbnb Checklist for Hosts

With over 7.7 million listings on Airbnb, it can be difficult to know how to stand out from the crowd. Plus, you’re competing with an endless supply of hotel rooms.

One simple maneuver to get your home higher in search rankings is to include a comprehensive list of amenities and features so potential guests know exactly what they’re getting. To help you out, we’ve put together a comprehensive Airbnb host checklist to guide you from the art of setting up your listing to the basics of keeping your guests happy.

Getting Started as an Airbnb Host

Before you hit “Post” on Airbnb, it’s important to make your property look its best to impress guests. Take the following steps to start your career as a successful Airbnb host:

Cleaning and decluttering

• Deep cleanHire cleaners to clean all areas of your home thoroughly, especially the kitchen and bathrooms.
• to organizeRemove personal items and any excess furniture.

Take high quality photos

• good lightingTake photos during the day when natural light is plentiful.
• arranged shotsTake a photo of each room from multiple angles.

Write an engaging description.

• Highlight unique featuresDescribe what makes your property special, whether it’s a beautiful view, a great location, or a fun theme.
• be honestAccurately represent your space to manage guest expectations.

Set up your vacation rentals

A well-arranged space makes guests feel comfortable and leads to more positive reviews. By paying attention to detail and anticipating guests’ needs, you can create an inviting atmosphere that encourages relaxation and enjoyment. Here are some essential items and amenities that hosts and property managers should consider when setting up their Airbnb property.

Comfortable furniture

• Make sure all seating options are attractive and adequately padded.
• Choose materials that are durable, easy to clean, and can withstand wear and tear.

Warm lighting

• Use a combination of overhead lighting and dimmable bulbs to create a cozy atmosphere.
• Consider dimmable lights.

Personal touches

• Include decorative items that reflect your style, such as artwork or local crafts.
• Provide thoughtful items such as books, toys, or travel guides.

career planning

• Arrange furniture to create open spaces that allow for easy movement.
• Make sure common areas are conducive to relaxation and socializing.

Outdoor spaces

• If possible, set up a comfortable seating area on patios or balconies.
• Maintain gardens or outdoor areas, and add elements like potted plants or fairy lights to add more magic.

Local information

• Create a welcome letter or book that includes maps, tips for exploring the area, and personal recommendations for restaurants and activities.
• Provide information about check-in and check-out procedures, Wi-Fi passwords, and emergency contacts.

welcome basket

• Leave a welcome basket with local food, snacks, and water in the room for Airbnb guests to enjoy upon arrival.

Comprehensive list of Airbnb hosts by room

Creating a comfortable, well-appointed environment for your guests requires thoughtful selection of items in each room. Here’s a complete list of essential items you should have on hand from Airbnb:

Living room

• Comfortable seating (sofa, chairs, etc.)
• coffee table
• Smart TV with remote control
• Entertainment system (speakers, sound bar, etc.)
• Streaming Services
• Books and magazines
• Decorative pillows, blankets and throw pillows
• console table
• Indoor plants
• The safeguards

kitchen

• Cooking tools and utensils
• Glasses
• wine glasses
• Wine and bottle opener
• microwave
• Coffee maker
• Dish soap and sponge
• Essential spices, coffee, tea and seasonings
• Dish Dryers
• refrigerator
• Snack options
• Toaster
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Trash can and extra trash bags
• Recycling bin
• Basic cleaning supplies
• Oven gloves
• silver cutlery
• Pots and pans
• baking tray
• Aluminum foil
• plastic bags
• food waste storage containers
• napkins

Bedrooms

• High quality bed covers and pillows (2 pillows per guest)
• bedside tables
• alarm clock
• Clothes storage (wardrobe or drawers)
• full length mirror
• a fan
• white noise machine
• reading lamps
• Extra blankets
• Charging stations
• full length mirror
• Hangers
• Mattress covers

Bathroom supplies

• Clean towels (body and hands)
• Toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, soap)
• toilet tissue
• Bath mat
• hair dryer
• Trash can
• makeup remover wipes
• Women’s Products
• Available razor blades
• Beach towels
• Disposable toothbrush
• toothpaste
• Cotton swabs
• toilet brush
• plunger
• towel rack
• towel hook
• Disposable bathrobes and slippers
• Body moisturizer
• Air fresheners

outdoor area

• outdoor seating
• grill
• String lights or lanterns
• Outdoor pillows and blankets
• Potted plants
• Outdoor games
• canopy or shade structure

Home office (if applicable)

• Comfortable desk and chair for business travelers
• desk lamp
• High speed internet
• Stationery supplies
• Printer and paper
• Charging cables
• notebook and pen

Additional Considerations

• Local maps and tourist information
• Washer and dryer with detergent (or service options)
• Cleaning supplies (in case of spills or accidents)
• Recycling and waste bins
• Iron and ironing board
• Extra linens for longer stays

Remember that every guest is different and has unique needs. If you host families frequently, consider providing extras like a crib or high chair. If you rent a pet-friendly property, provide food and water dishes or litter boxes. These little details go a long way in improving the guest experience.

Additional amenities to consider

To really stand out in this competitive Airbnb market, look for ways to offer unique amenities or services. Go beyond the basic amenities and include thoughtful amenities that will make your stay absolutely unforgettable.

• swimming pool or hot tub
• Reception and guidance services
• Airport transfers
• outdoor grill
• fire pit
• Free bikes
• Board games
• Fitness equipment or access to a gym
• Spa Services
• Private balcony or terrace
• High-end kitchen appliances
• Smart TV

Safety and security elements

Although accidents are rare, it is important to be prepared for anything. Here are some safety and security items you can invest in:

• Smoke Detectors
• carbon monoxide detectors
• first aid kit
• Fire extinguisher
• Outdoor security cameras
• Outdoor lighting
• Noise monitoring devices
• Smart locks

Cleaning equipment

Storing your belongings on Airbnb or your own professional cleaning service is a no-brainer! Add these supplies to your Airbnb inventory:

• All purpose cleaner
• glass cleaner
• disinfectant wipes
• Sponge and cleaning brush
• microfiber fabrics
• broom and dustpan
• mop and bucket
• vacuum cleaner
• Surface disinfectant spray
• Tissue paper
• Flags

House rules

Another item you can add to your Airbnb hosting to-do list is to create house rules. These rules help set expectations, prevent misunderstandings, and protect your rental property. Add these basic house rules to your Airbnb hosting to-do list:

• No smoking: To maintain air quality and avoid unpleasant odors, smoking is prohibited inside your Airbnb listing. Designate an outside area for those who wish to smoke.
• Pet Policy: Clearly state whether pets are allowed. If so, specify any specific requirements, such as tethering pets in common areas or restrictions on certain breeds.
• Quiet hours: Establish quiet hours during which noise should be kept to a minimum. These hours are usually from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
• Guest limits: To avoid overcrowding, limit the maximum number of guests allowed in the property at any one time.
• Check-in/check-out times: Set clear check-in and check-out times to allow for thorough cleaning and ensure the property is ready for short-term rental guests.
• Respect property: Encourage guests to treat the home with care, and to report any damage or problems they encounter during their stay.
• Pool and Spa Rules (if applicable): If the property has a pool or spa, specify safety guidelines and expectations regarding use. This may include restrictions on children’s access, no-diving rules, and proper use of chemicals.
• Parking Instructions: If parking is available at the property, specify where guests must park and if there are any restrictions (e.g., only one car per guest).
• Emergency Contact: Provide emergency contact information for both the host and local authorities in the event of an emergency.

Where to find these items on your Airbnb checklist

Finding all the items on this list may seem overwhelming, but don’t worry! We’ve narrowed down the best retail locations to find everything you need:

• Local home improvement stores: Retailers like Target or Walmart often carry a wide selection of household essentials, from cleaning products to kitchen tools.
• Online retailers: Websites like Amazon and Wayfair offer convenient options for purchasing bulk quantities of specific items and needs designed specifically for vacation rentals.
• Wholesale clubs: Membership-based stores like Costco or Sam’s Club can be ideal for stocking up on supplies at a reduced cost.
• Dollar stores: These are budget-friendly options for smaller items that guests may need during their stay, such as toiletries or snacks.
• Furniture and decoration stores: Stores like IKEA or HomeGoods can help you find affordable furniture and decor items to elevate the beauty of your space.
• Local Sellers: Consider supporting local businesses by purchasing goods directly from them. This can also add a unique touch to your rental space and support the community.
• Online Supplies Rental Companies: Some companies, like WebstaurantStore, specialize in providing supplies for vacation rentals, such as starter kits for Airbnb or furniture for rent.

Tips for Storing Your Airbnb

Here are some tips to help you efficiently stock your Airbnb startup checklist:

• Prioritize the essentials: Start by focusing on providing the basic items that guests will need during their stay, such as personal hygiene supplies, clean linens, and kitchen supplies.
• Keep a checklist: Create a list of all the necessary items for each room in your rental, and use it to keep track of what needs to be restocked.
• Consider your target audience: Think about the type of guests you want to attract and tailor your supplies to suit their needs. For example, if you’re targeting families, make sure to provide child-friendly items like toys or high chairs.
• Don’t forget the little things: Small touches can go a long way in making your rental feel welcoming to guests. Consider providing amenities like coffee and tea, extra blankets or pillows, local guidebooks, or personal recommendations.
• Keep it clean: Keeping your space clean and organized is essential to creating a positive guest experience. Make sure to replenish your cleaning supplies regularly and schedule deep cleanings between guest stays.
• Communicate with guests: Consider asking guests for feedback on what supplies they found useful during their stay and use it to improve your rental in the future.
• Consider the environment: As a responsible host, consider implementing eco-friendly practices in your rental property. This might include using energy-efficient appliances, providing recycling bins for guests, or offering local, sustainable amenities.

Final thoughts

Ultimately, guests expect hosts to provide a clean, safe, and comfortable place to stay. What sets short-term rentals apart from hotels is the commitment to detail and personal touch.

By providing the items on this list, you’ll help potential guests feel at home and provide them with a memorable experience. From a well-decorated outdoor space to a high-security smart lock on your front door, the little details make a big difference. With these tips in mind, you’re on your way to becoming one of the most successful Airbnb hosts ever.