Professional Cleaning Checklist for Airbnb Hosts in Boston

Cleanliness is the #1 driver of guest satisfaction on short-term rentals. In Greater Boston, the North Shore, and the Merrimack Valley, a professional checklist keeps turnovers fast, consistent, and review-worthy.

Why a Professional Checklist Matters

• Consistency: No missed tasks across back-to-back turnovers.
• Standards: Aligns to Airbnb’s 5-step cleaning guidance and CDC hygiene basics.
• Better reviews: Spotless, well-staged spaces improve ratings and rebookings.

The Essential Airbnb Cleaning Checklist

Living Areas

• Vacuum/mop floors; dust furniture, baseboards, vents.
• Disinfect high-touch points (remotes, switches, doorknobs, railings).
• Spot-clean walls/doors; clean interior glass and mirrors.
• Stage pillows/throws; ensure Wi-Fi code is visible.

Kitchen

• Wipe & disinfect counters, backsplash, sink, faucet.
• Exterior of appliances; interior of microwave; empty fridge of guest items and wipe shelves.
• Run/empty dishwasher if needed; replace sponge/dish soap if worn.
• Empty trash/recycling; line bins; mop floor.
• Restock: paper towels, dish pods, coffee/tea basics (as per host policy).

Bathrooms

• Scrub/disinfect toilet, tub/shower, sink, and fixtures.
• Polish mirrors; wipe cabinets and handles.
• Disinfect high-touch points (switches, door/flush handles).
• Replace towels; restock soap, shampoo, toilet paper, tissues.
• Mop floor; ensure good ventilation and odor-free result.

Bedrooms

• Strip beds; launder linens; make beds hotel-style with fresh sets.
• Dust furniture/lamps; disinfect knobs/switches; vacuum under beds if accessible.
• Check for forgotten items; stage nightstands (lamp working, clock set, minimal clutter).

Laundry & Linens

• Wash/dry linens & towels on appropriate cycles; fold or store extra sets neatly.
• Inspect for stains/tears; replace as needed from host inventory.

Final Touches & Staging

• Set thermostat to a comfortable temperature; confirm lights and blinds positioning.
• Replenish amenities (coffee/tea, toiletries) per listing standards.
• Quick walkthrough + photos of each room for proof and quality control.

Local Advantages for Boston Hosts

• Speed: Reliable turnover windows between check-out and check-in.
• Presentation: Staging that earns “sparkling clean” comments.
• Scale: Consistency across multiple properties in Boston, North Shore & Merrimack Valley.

Recommended Reading

IN (on our site): Average House Cleaning Prices in Greater Boston, North Shore & Merrimack Valley

OUT (authoritative sources):

• Airbnb – 5-Step Cleaning Process
• CDC – Cleaning & Disinfecting Your Home
• Forbes – Choosing a Professional Cleaning Vendor