Welcome to Mumbai
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Furnishing a traditional-style Airbnb property in India comes with its unique set of challenges that often stump even the most experienced Airbnb hosts. Getting the right blend of modern comfort and traditional aesthetics can be an uphill task leading to several pain points such as choice of furniture, color schemes, wall art, and an array of cultural knick-knacks that resonate with the traditional Indian culture.
Besides, hosts often face the twin difficulties of sourcing high-quality, culturally-relevant items, and the logistical hassle of moving and arranging them, especially in more remote, traditional locales. These challenges can lead to confusion and misplaced efforts wasting both time and resources.
Thankfully, this no longer has to be the case as expertise has been distilled through years into an easy-to-follow amenities list. This guide, crafted from deep knowledge and extensive experience, streamlines the furnishing process, shedding light on the appropriate selection of amenities to set up an Airbnb property in India that not only wields charm but also scores high on functionality and comfort.
This curated amenities list is your pathway to successfully outdo the challenges and set up a traditionally furnished Indian Airbnb home that stands out for all the right reasons.
List of Airbnb Amenities for Bathroom
| Serial No. | Name | Optional? | Quantity | Keep In Mind | Expert Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Toilet Brush | Must Have | One per toilet | To allow guests to clean up if needed | Standard toilet brush with holder, any local brand Since there is no specific brand mentioned in the text, no changes are required. |
| 2 | Toilet Paper | Must Have | At least 2 rolls per guest | Keep a small storage of extra rolls in the bathroom for guests to replenish as needed | Soft and 2 or 3-ply brands available in India like Origami, Bella, or Premier. |
| 3 | Hand Soap | Must Have | At least one per bathroom | Refillable dispensers are more eco-friendly | Liquid hand soap from brands such as Dettol, Lifebuoy, or Dove |
| 4 | Towels | Must Have | Two per guest | One for the face and one for the body. Keep some extra towels available | Soft, absorbent towels. Consider brands like Bombay Dyeing or Spaces. |
| 5 | Bath Mat | Must Have | One for each main bathroom. | Prevents slipping and water accumulation on the floor | Non-slip, absorbent bath mats |
| 6 | Shampoo | Must Have | One small bottle per guest or one large bottle for all to use | Guests often expect shampoo to be provided | Choose mild shampoos, like those from Himalaya or Dove, suitable for all hair types |
| 7 | Body Wash or Soap | Must Have | One per guest | Hard soap can be less sanitary for multiple guests, consider a body wash instead | Brands like Pears or Nivea have good body wash products |
| 8 | Trash Can with Liners | Must Have | One per bathroom | Ensure it has a lid for hygiene, and there are extra liners | Small bathroom-friendly design with lid |
| 9 | Bidet Spray | Must Have | One per toilet | Most traditional Indian bathrooms have one, but check that it's functioning properly | Any local brand with good reviews, ensure it's easy to use and sturdy |
| 10 | Mirror | Must Have | At least one | Ensure it's clean and streak-free | Full-length mirror if possible, otherwise a sizeable mirror above sink |
| 11 | Bathroom Slippers | Optional | A pair per guest | Can add to the comfort and cleanliness of the guest's stay | Choose slippers with a rubber sole for durability and safety |
| 12 | Tumbler or Glass for Mouthwash/Cleaning Teeth | Optional | One per guest | Ensure it's suitable for bathroom use (i.e., not glass) | Plastic or acrylic tumblers |
| 13 | Hair Dryer | Optional | One if provided | Not all guests use this, consider your target market | A powerful but quiet model, from brands like Philips or Chaoba |
| 14 | Toothpaste | Optional | One small tube per guest, or a larger to share | Not all hosts provide this, but it's a nice touch | Popular brands in India include Colgate or Dabur, select a mild, non-whitening paste. |
| 15 | Conditioner | Optional | Same as shampoo | Not all guests use conditioner, but having it available is a nice touch | Brands like Tresemme or Pantene are popular |
| 16 | Shower Curtain | Optional | One per bathroom if there's a shower | Helps keep the rest of the bathroom dry during showers | Water-resistant and easy-to-clean shower curtain |
| 17 | Air Freshener Spray | Optional | One per bathroom | Can help keep the bathroom smelling clean and fresh | Mild and non-overpowering scents |
| 18 | Bathroom Cleaning Supplies | Optional | Enough to last guest's stay | Consider providing if the guest will be staying long-term | Basic cleaning supplies like a bathroom cleaner and scrub brush |
| 19 | First Aid Kit | Optional | One per property | Recommended to include basic items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers | Any medical brand, can be a small travel-sized kit |
List of Airbnb Amenities for Bedroom
| Serial No. | Name | Optional? | Quantity | Keep In Mind | Expert Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Wifi | Must Have | 1 per room | Should be of high speed | No specific brand |
| 2 | Mattress | Must Have | 1 per bed | Must be comfortable and not worn out | Orthopedic or memory foam mattress |
| 3 | Bed | Must Have | 1 per room | Should be of good quality and comfortable | Traditional Indian wooden bed |
| 4 | Pillow | Must Have | 2 per bed | Should be soft and comfortable | Memory foam pillow |
| 5 | Bed Sheets | Must Have | 2 sets per bed | Should be cotton and traditional Indian prints | Any popular brand like Bombay Dyeing or FabIndia |
| 6 | Blankets or Quilts | Must Have | 1 per bed | Should be warm and comfortable | Any popular brand or handmade Rajasthani quilts |
| 7 | Bedside Table | Must Have | 1-2 per bed | Should match with the bed and room decor | Wooden bedside table with traditional carvings |
| 8 | Waste Bin | Must Have | 1 per room | Should be lined and cleaned regularly | Small easily cleanable bin |
| 9 | Table Lamp | Must Have | 1 per bedside table | Should provide sufficient light | Traditional Indian style table lamp |
| 10 | Curtains | Must Have | For all windows | Should complement the decor and block light | Cotton curtains with traditional Indian prints |
| 11 | Air Conditioner or Fan | Must Have | 1 per room | Should be in working condition | Split AC or a ceiling fan |
| 12 | Full Length Mirror | Must Have | 1 per room | Should be securely mounted | Full-length mirror |
| 13 | Wardrobe | Must Have | 1 per room | Should be spacious and of traditional design | Wooden wardrobe with traditional Indian carvings |
| 14 | Tea Coffee Tray | Optional | 1 per room | Convenience for guest | Electric Kettle with cups and packets of tea/coffee |
| 15 | Dream Catcher | Optional | 1 per room | Adds a nice traditional touch to the room | Handmade dream catcher |
| 16 | Alarm Clock | Optional | 1 per room | Should be easy to use | Any good alarm clock brand |
| 17 | Artwork | Optional | 2-3 per room | Traditional Indian artwork could enhance the room's aesthetics | Tanjore paintings, Indian Weaver handlooms |
| 18 | TV | Optional | 1 per room | Install if within budget | Any good brand |
| 19 | Safe | Optional | 1 per room | For guests to keep their valuables | Digital electronic safe |
| 20 | Laundry Basket | Optional | 1 per room | Convenience for guest to keep used clothes | Any good brand |
| 21 | Air Freshener | Optional | 1 per room | Keep room smell fresh | Non-toxic organic air fresheners |
| 22 | Cosy Seating Area | Optional | 1 per room | Extra comfort for guests | Wooden seats with comfortable cushions |
| 23 | Rug | Optional | 1-2 per room | Should match the room decor | Traditional Indian rugs |
List of Airbnb Amenities for Kitchen
| Serial No. | Name | Optional? | Quantity | Keep In Mind | Expert Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chopping Boards | Must Have | 2-3 | One for vegetables/fruits, one for meat | Plastic is easiest to clean, but wood may fit a traditional style better |
| 2 | Mixing Bowls | Must Have | 1 Set | Various sizes for different uses | Stainless steel or Glass |
| 3 | Cooking Utensil Holder | Must Have | 1 | Helps in organizing the utensils | Ceramic or Stainless Steel |
| 4 | Mixer Grinder | Must Have | 1 | For making Indian spice mixes and chutneys | Choose a model with different sized jars |
| 5 | Pressure Cooker | Must Have | 1 | Important for cooking rice and lentils | Choose one with safety features |
| 6 | Tea Kettle | Must Have | 1 | For boiling water for tea and coffee | Choose a model that fits the stove top or is electric |
| 7 | Dish Rack | Must Have | 1 | For drying dishes after washing | Stainless steel |
| 8 | Garbage Bin | Must Have | 1 | Should have a lid, use biodegradable bin liners | Plastic or Stainless steel |
| 9 | Dishwashing Liquid | Must Have | 1 | Keep a backup bottle | Choose within popular local brands |
| 10 | Masala Box | Must Have | 1 | Includes basic Indian spices | Stainless Steel or Brass |
| 11 | Tawa | Must Have | 1 | For cooking chapatis and pancakes | Non-stick prefered |
| 12 | Cooking Knives | Must Have | 1 Set | Should include a chef's knife, paring knife and a bread knife | Choose a set that includes a knife block for safe storage |
| 13 | Gas Cooktop | Must Have | 1 | Verify there's a safety certificate | Choose models with auto ignition |
| 14 | Fridge | Must Have | 1 | Ensure regular cleaning and maintenance | Choose energy efficient models |
| 15 | Pots and Pans | Must Have | A Set of 4-5 | These should be of different sizes for different meals | Stainless Steel or Aluminium |
| 16 | Bowls | Must Have | 8-12 depending on the size of property | For soups, cereals, and other dishes | Ceramic or stainless steel |
| 17 | Mugs | Must Have | 4-6 | For tea and coffee use | Ceramic or Steel |
| 18 | Glasses | Must Have | 8-12 depending on the size of property | Should be suitable for both hot and cold drinks | Glass or Stainless Steel |
| 19 | Cutlery Set | Must Have | 8-12 depending on the size of property | Should include knife, fork, spoon, and teaspoon per person | Stainless Steel |
| 20 | Plates | Must Have | 8-12 depending on the size of property | Should be microwave safe | Ceramic or stainless steel |
| 21 | Utensil Set | Must Have | 1 Set | Should include spatulas, large spoon, tongs, whisk | Stainless Steel or Wooden |
| 22 | Oven | Optional | 1 | Choose a model with clear instructions | Electric or microwave Oven |
| 23 | Chai Glasses | Optional | 4-6 | For serving traditional Indian tea | Glass |
| 24 | Microwave | Optional | 1 | If you have a high demand on your property, this could prove worked the investment | Choose a model with intuitive operations |
| 25 | Toaster | Optional | 1 | For guest who prefer toast | Choose a model that can accommodate wide slices |
| 26 | Dinner Set | Optional | 1 | Include serving bowls, serving spoons, and dinner plates | Choose a local ceramics brand |
List of Airbnb Amenities for Living Room
| Serial No. | Name | Optional? | Quantity | Keep In Mind | Expert Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Welcome Guide/Map | Must Have | 1 per guest | Include local attractions, dining recommendations, house rules etc. | Printed guide, consider including a small map |
| 2 | Cushions | Must Have | 4-6 | Matches with the Sofa, comfortable | Colorful traditional Indian cushions with patterns |
| 3 | First Aid Kit | Must Have | 1 | Easily accessible, with proper medical items | First aid kit with basic medical supplies |
| 4 | Air Conditioning or Fan | Must Have | As per room size | Depending on the local climate. Extra fans can be provided for hotter climates | Any good brand such as Daikin, LG for AC; Havells, Usha for fans. |
| 5 | Curtains/Window Blinds | Must Have | As per windows | Should blend with the décor of the room | Traditional Indian style curtains or blinds, consider the local climate |
| 6 | Internet/WiFi | Must Have | 1 | Fast and reliable | Any good ISP, consider speed and connectivity |
| 7 | Television | Must Have | 1 | Include cable or satellite service, or a smart TV with WiFi | Any reliable brand such as Samsung, LG |
| 8 | Coffee Table | Must Have | 1 | Should be sturdy and stable | Wooden coffee table with traditional Indian carvings |
| 9 | Sofa | Must Have | 1 | Should be comfortable and clean | Traditional Indian style wooden sofa with cushioning |
| 10 | Sound System | Optional | 1 | For guest use and entertainment | Any reliable brand, consider compatibility with various devices |
| 11 | Board Games | Optional | 2-3 | For guest use | Classic board games like chess, carrom (popular in India) |
| 12 | Blankets | Optional | 1-2 | For guest comfort in case of cool evenings | Indian-crafted blankets or throws |
| 13 | Magazines | Optional | 5-10 | Include a range of genres including local tourism magazines | Variety of Indian and international magazines |
| 14 | Phone Charger/Adapter | Optional | 2 | In case guests forget to bring their own | Universal Phone Charger/Adapter |
| 15 | Tea Table Set | Optional | 1 | For guest use | Traditional Indian tea set preferably ceramic or copper, |
| 16 | Scented Candles/Air Freshener | Optional | 1 | Pleasant and not too strong. Consider guests might be allergic | Any reliable brand, consider Indian scents like sandalwood or jasmine |
| 17 | Wall Clock | Optional | 1 | Visible from seating area | Traditional Indian style wooden or brass clock |
| 18 | Bowl of Local Snacks | Optional | 1 | Refill whenever new guests arrive | Offer local Indian snacks like murukku, bhujia |
| 19 | Rug | Optional | 1 | Should match the décor and be cleaned regularly | Traditional Indian rug, consider durability |
| 20 | Traditional Indian Artwork | Optional | 2-3 pieces | It should reflect the local culture | Frame local traditional artwork, paintings or tapestries |
| 21 | Books | Optional | 10-15 | Include a range of genres and some local guidebooks | Diverse collection of books, include some by Indian authors |
| 22 | Table Lamp | Optional | 2 | Provides adequate light and matches the decor | Brass table lamp with Indian motifs |
| 23 | Coasters | Optional | 1 set (4-6 pieces) | Protect the coffee table from stains/scuffs | Wooden or copper coasters with local Indian motifs |
| 24 | Houseplants | Optional | 2-3 | Easy to care for type, non-toxic if pets might be around | Aloe Vera, Snake Plant |
List of Airbnb Amenities for Outdoor Space
| Serial No. | Name | Optional? | Quantity | Keep In Mind | Expert Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Outdoor Seating Arrangement | Must Have | 1 | Should accommodate the maximum number of guests allowed to stay | Wooden or wrought iron outdoor furniture suits a traditional style. Consider a bench or setup of chairs and table |
| 2 | Garden Umbrella | Must Have | 1 | Provide shade for guests especially during hot and sunny weather | Traditional Indian patio umbrellas, often colorful and hand-painted |
| 3 | Mosquito Repellent | Must Have | Relative to the number of guests | Can be a common issue in the outdoors | Citronella candles, mosquito coils, or electronic mosquito repellent machines |
| 4 | Plants and Flowers | Must Have | Depends on space | Plants native to India like Jasmine, Marigold and Rose are popular | Use traditional Indian clay pots or urns |
| 5 | Garden Lights | Must Have | Depends on space | For illumination during evening and night | Traditional lanterns or lamp-posts |
| 6 | Hose or watering can | Must Have | 1 | For watering plants and cleaning the garden | Classic watering can or a garden hose with different nozzle settings |
| 7 | Outdoor Dining Set | Must Have | Relative to the number of guests | For meals in open air | Wooden or wrought iron table and chairs |
| 8 | Dustbins | Must Have | 2 (One for recycling) | Secure and with lids to keep pests away" | Metal dustbins are more durable |
| 9 | Outdoor Entertainment System | Optional | 1 | Ensure it doesn't disturb neighbors | Portable Bluetooth speakers or outdoor projector |
| 10 | Outdoor Cooler or Mini Fridge | Optional | 1 | For guests to store cold drinks and snacks outdoors | Portable cooler or outdoor mini fridge |
| 11 | Cushions and Throws | Optional | Variety of sizes and shapes | For extra comfort and warmth during chilly evenings | Cotton or other natural fibre with traditional Indian prints like Ikat or Kantha |
| 12 | Charpoy or Traditional Indian Daybed | Optional | 1 | Commonly found in rural India | Wooden or metal frame with woven net |
| 13 | Yoga Mats | Optional | Relative to the number of guests | Suggestive of a serene and calm environment for yoga | Thick, non-slip, eco-friendly mat |
| 14 | Outdoor Games | Optional | 3-4 games | Choose games suitable for all ages | Cricket equipment, badminton or traditional Indian games like carrom or kabaddi |
| 15 | Bird Feeder | Optional | 1 | Regular cleaning required | Traditional clay or wooden bird feeder |
| 16 | Hammock | Optional | 1 | Installed securely | Cotton hammocks for comfort |
| 17 | Outdoor Firepit | Optional | 1 | Safety should be the paramount concern | Prefers a fire pit with a safety screen |
| 18 | BBQ Grill | Optional | 1 | Indicated if the property allows barbeque | Charcoal or Gas Grill |
| 19 | Outdoor Rug | Optional | 1 | For creating a defined seating space | Natural fibres like jute or coir |
| 20 | Traditional Indian Swings | Optional | 1 | Frequently seen in traditional Indian homes | Wooden swings |
