Cleaning airbnb Cottage in Palermo
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As a long-time Airbnb host and local cleaning expert here in Palermo, I know that keeping your Cottage spotless is essential for ensuring a five-star guest experience. Over the years, I've developed this comprehensive cleaning checklist specifically tailored for Airbnb hosts, based on what works best for properties in Palermo.
This checklist covers everything you need to maintain a welcoming and hygienic space:
- Daily Essentials: Take care of the most important tasks every day to keep your Airbnb looking fresh and ready for guests.
- Weekly & Monthly Deep Cleaning: Follow a schedule for deeper cleaning, ensuring that every corner of your Cottage remains in top condition.
- Eco-Friendly Cleaning Alternatives: Use sustainable products and methods to maintain high cleaning standards while being mindful of the environment.
- Safety Precautions: Protect yourself and your guests by following important safety guidelines during the cleaning process.
This checklist is designed to help you stay ahead in the competitive Airbnb market by keeping your Cottage spotless and ensuring guests have an exceptional stay in Palermo. Follow these steps, and your property will always be in pristine condition, earning rave reviews from your guests.
1. Detailed Airbnb Cleaning Checklist For Attic
| Item Type | Task Description | Product Suggestion | Eco-friendly Alternative | Frequency | Estimated Time | Priority Level | Safety Precautions | Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General | Sweep and vacuum the entire attic space, including corners and under furniture. | Vacuum with attachments for hard-to-reach areas | Use a broom made from natural materials | Weekly | 1-2 hours | High | Be cautious of any sharp objects or debris on the floor. | Move furniture and storage items to thoroughly clean the floor. |
| Furniture | Dust and wipe down all furniture surfaces including tables, chairs, and shelves. | Microfiber cloth and furniture polish spray. | Microfiber cloth and homemade furniture polish using olive oil and vinegar. | Weekly | 30 minutes | High | Use a step ladder if needed to reach high shelves safely. | Rotate furniture occasionally to prevent uneven wear and tear. |
| General | Dust and wipe down any exposed beams, walls, and windows in the attic. | Microfiber cloths and all-purpose cleaner | Vinegar and water solution for cleaning | Bi-weekly | 1 hour | Medium | Use a sturdy ladder if needed to reach high areas. | Start from the top and work your way down to avoid re-dusting. |
| Flooring | Vacuum or sweep the attic floor to remove dust, dirt, and debris. | Vacuum cleaner or broom and dustpan. | Broom and dustpan or natural bristle brush. | Bi-weekly | 20 minutes | Medium | Wear a dust mask if the attic is particularly dusty. | Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to trap allergens and improve air quality. |
| General | Remove all items stored in the attic and place them in a designated area. | Sturdy boxes or bins for storage | Use cardboard boxes or reusable storage containers | Once a month | 1-2 hours | High | Wear gloves and a mask to protect against dust and allergens. | Label boxes for easy identification when putting items back. |
| Electronics | Dust and wipe down electronics like TVs, speakers, and lamps. | Microfiber cloth and electronic-safe cleaning spray. | Microfiber cloth slightly dampened with water or vinegar. | Monthly | 15 minutes | Medium | Unplug electronics before cleaning to avoid electrical hazards. | Use a can of compressed air to blow out dust from hard-to-reach areas like vents and ports. |
| Windows | Clean windows inside and out to ensure a clear view and allow natural light in. | Glass cleaner, microfiber cloth, and squeegee. | Vinegar and water solution in a spray bottle with a microfiber cloth. | Monthly | 45 minutes | High | Use a sturdy ladder if needed and be cautious when working at heights. | Clean windows on a cloudy day to prevent streaking from the sun's heat. |
| General | Inspect for any signs of pests or mold growth and take appropriate action. | Pest control products and mold remover | Essential oils for pest control and vinegar for mold removal | Monthly | Varies | High | Wear gloves and a mask when dealing with potentially harmful substances. | Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage or infestations. |
| Storage | Organize and declutter storage boxes and bins in the attic. | Clear plastic containers for easy visibility | Use recycled cardboard boxes or fabric bins | Quarterly | 2-3 hours | Medium | Be mindful of heavy items when moving storage containers. | Label and categorize items for efficient storage and retrieval. |
| Vents | Clean air vents to improve air quality and prevent dust buildup. | Vent brush or vacuum attachment. | Microfiber cloth or soft brush to gently wipe away dust. | Quarterly | 30 minutes | Medium | Turn off the HVAC system before cleaning vents to avoid injury. | Mark the vent locations to easily locate and clean them during future maintenance. |
| Ventilation | Clean and inspect attic vents for proper airflow and ventilation. | Vent brush and vacuum with attachments | Use a microfiber cloth and natural cleaning solution | Bi-annually | 1-2 hours | Medium | Use a mask and gloves to protect against dust and debris. | Regularly check vents to ensure optimal air circulation in the attic. |
| Storage Spaces | Organize and declutter storage spaces such as closets, cabinets, and drawers. | Storage bins, labels, and drawer organizers. | Use recycled cardboard boxes, fabric bins, and repurpose containers. | Seasonally | 1-2 hours | High | Watch out for sharp objects or heavy items when organizing. | Maximize vertical space by using stackable bins and shelves. |
2. Detailed Airbnb Cleaning Checklist For Bathroom
| Item Type | Task Description | Product Suggestion | Eco-friendly Alternative | Frequency | Estimated Time | Priority Level | Safety Precautions | Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Surface Cleaning | Wipe down all surfaces including countertops, sink, and vanity. | All-purpose cleaner | Vinegar and water solution | After each guest checkout | 10 minutes | High | Wear gloves while cleaning. | Use a microfiber cloth for streak-free surfaces. |
| Toilet Cleaning | Clean and disinfect the toilet bowl, seat, lid, and exterior surfaces. | Toilet bowl cleaner and disinfectant | Baking soda and vinegar | After each guest checkout | 10 minutes | High | Use a toilet brush and wear gloves. | Let the cleaner sit for a few minutes before scrubbing for better results. |
| Floor Cleaning | Sweep and mop the bathroom floor, paying attention to corners and edges. | Floor cleaner suitable for the floor type | Vinegar and water solution | After each guest checkout | 15 minutes | High | Use caution when mopping to avoid slips. | Spot clean any spills immediately to prevent stains. |
| Shower And Tub Cleaning | Scrub and rinse the shower walls, tub, and fixtures. | Shower cleaner or mildew remover | Baking soda paste | After each guest checkout | 15 minutes | High | Ventilate the area while using cleaning products. | Use a squeegee to prevent water spots on glass surfaces. |
| Mirror Cleaning | Clean mirrors with glass cleaner for a streak-free shine. | Glass cleaner | Vinegar and water solution | After each guest checkout | 5 minutes | Medium | Use a step stool if needed to reach high mirrors. | Wipe in a circular motion to prevent streaks. |
| Trash Removal | Empty the trash bin and replace with a new liner. | Trash bags | Biodegradable trash bags | After each guest checkout | 5 minutes | Medium | Tie the trash bag securely before disposing of it. | Check for any hidden trash in drawers or cabinets. |
| Bathroom | Clean and disinfect sink, faucet, and countertops. | All-purpose cleaner | DIY citrus vinegar cleaner | Weekly | 10 minutes | High | Avoid mixing cleaning products, especially bleach and ammonia. | Use a toothbrush to clean hard-to-reach areas around the faucet. |
| Bathroom | Clean and disinfect toilet bowl, seat, lid, and exterior. | Toilet bowl cleaner with disinfectant | Vinegar and baking soda mixture | Weekly | 10 minutes | High | Wear gloves and ensure proper ventilation. | Let the cleaner sit for a few minutes before scrubbing for better results. |
| Bathroom | Vacuum and mop the bathroom floor. | Vacuum cleaner and floor mop | Microfiber mop and eco-friendly floor cleaner | Weekly | 15 minutes | Medium | Use caution when handling electrical appliances near water. | Start from the farthest corner and work your way towards the door. |
| Bathroom | Wipe down and disinfect light switches, door handles, and other high-touch surfaces. | Disinfectant wipes or spray | DIY disinfectant spray with essential oils | Weekly | 5 minutes | Medium | Ensure proper ventilation while using disinfectants. | Focus on areas that are frequently touched by guests. |
| Bathroom | Clean and shine mirrors and glass surfaces. | Glass cleaner with microfiber cloth | DIY vinegar-based glass cleaner | Weekly | 5 minutes | Medium | Avoid using abrasive materials on glass surfaces. | Wipe in a circular motion to prevent streaks on the glass. |
| Bathroom | Scrub and rinse shower/tub walls, floor, and fixtures. | Shower cleaner with scrubbing brush | Vinegar and water solution with a scrubbing brush | Bi-weekly | 20 minutes | High | Use non-toxic cleaners to prevent skin irritation. | Dry the shower/tub after cleaning to prevent water spots. |
| Bathroom | Clean and organize bathroom cabinets and drawers. | Multi-surface cleaner | DIY vinegar and water solution | Monthly | 15 minutes | Low | Check for expired products and dispose of them properly. | Use drawer organizers to keep items neatly separated and easily accessible. |
| Vent Cleaning | Dust and vacuum the bathroom vent to improve air circulation. | Vacuum cleaner with brush attachment | Microfiber cloth and brush | Monthly | 15 minutes | Low | Turn off the vent before cleaning. | Use a ladder if needed to reach high vents. |
| Grout Cleaning | Scrub and clean the grout lines between tiles to remove mold or mildew. | Grout cleaner or bleach solution | Hydrogen peroxide and baking soda paste | Quarterly | 30 minutes | Low | Ventilate the area and wear a mask when using strong cleaners. | Seal the grout after cleaning to prevent future stains. |
| Bathroom | Check and replace shower curtain liner if necessary. | Shower curtain liner | Eco-friendly shower curtain liner | As needed | 10 minutes | Low | Dispose of old liner properly to avoid mold growth. | Choose a mildew-resistant liner for longer use. |
3. Detailed Airbnb Cleaning Checklist For Bedroom
| Item Type | Task Description | Product Suggestion | Eco-friendly Alternative | Frequency | Estimated Time | Priority Level | Safety Precautions | Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Furniture | Dust all surfaces of the bed frame, headboard, nightstands, and dressers. | Microfiber cloth | Reusable cleaning cloth | Weekly | 15 minutes | High | Use a step stool if needed to reach higher surfaces. | Rotate and flip the mattress regularly to ensure even wear and longevity. |
| Furniture | Dust all furniture surfaces including nightstands, dressers, and chairs. | Microfiber cloth | Reusable dusting cloth | Weekly | 15 minutes | High | Use a step stool if needed to reach high areas. | Start from top surfaces and work your way down to avoid double cleaning. |
| Bedding | Change bed linens including sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers. | Laundry detergent | Eco-friendly laundry detergent pods | Weekly | 20 minutes | High | Handle used linens carefully to avoid contact with skin. | Rotate and flip mattresses every few months to ensure even wear. |
| Flooring | Vacuum or sweep the floors, including under the bed and in corners. | Vacuum cleaner or broom | Manual carpet sweeper | Weekly | 20 minutes | High | Watch out for small items that may be on the floor. | Use a crevice tool to clean along baseboards and edges. |
| Flooring | Vacuum or sweep the floors, including under the bed and in corners. | Vacuum cleaner or broom | Manual carpet sweeper | Weekly | 20 minutes | High | Check for small items on the floor that could damage the vacuum cleaner. | Use attachments to clean baseboards and edges for a thorough job. |
| Decor | Dust and wipe down decorative items, mirrors, and picture frames. | Microfiber cloth | Reusable cleaning cloth | Bi-weekly | 15 minutes | Medium | Handle fragile items with care. | Rotate decorative pieces to prevent dust buildup in one spot. |
| Bedding | Change and wash all bedding including sheets, pillowcases, duvet covers, and blankets. | Eco-friendly laundry detergent | DIY laundry detergent | Bi-weekly | 30 minutes | High | Follow washing instructions on the care labels. | Air dry bedding whenever possible to reduce energy consumption. |
| Decorative Items | Dust or wipe down decorative items like picture frames, vases, and ornaments. | Microfiber cloth | Reusable dusting cloth | Monthly | 10 minutes | Low | Handle fragile items with care to prevent breakage. | Rotate decorative items to prevent dust buildup in one spot. |
| Light Fixtures | Dust light fixtures, lampshades, and bulbs. | Microfiber cloth | Reusable dusting cloth | Monthly | 10 minutes | Medium | Ensure light fixtures are turned off and cool before cleaning. | Use a lint roller for quick removal of dust on lampshades. |
| Windows | Clean windows and mirrors with a streak-free glass cleaner. | Glass cleaner and microfiber cloth | Vinegar and water solution | Monthly | 15 minutes | Medium | Use a sturdy step stool if windows are high up. | Clean windows on a cloudy day to prevent streaking from the sun. |
| Windows | Clean windows, sills, and curtains or blinds. | Glass cleaner, microfiber cloth | Vinegar solution with a cloth | Monthly | 30 minutes | Medium | Use a sturdy step stool or ladder for high windows. | Wash curtains according to care instructions to keep them fresh. |
| Curtains Or Blinds | Dust or vacuum curtains and blinds to remove dust and debris. | Vacuum cleaner with brush attachment | Handheld vacuum with crevice tool | Bi-monthly | 15 minutes | Medium | Handle curtains carefully to avoid damage. | Spot clean any stains on curtains with a mild detergent solution. |
4. Detailed Airbnb Cleaning Checklist For Kitchen
| Item Type | Task Description | Product Suggestion | Eco-friendly Alternative | Frequency | Estimated Time | Priority Level | Safety Precautions | Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Appliances | Clean the exterior of the refrigerator including handles and doors. | Multi-surface cleaner | Vinegar and water solution | Weekly | 10 minutes | High | Unplug the refrigerator before cleaning to avoid electrical hazards. | Use a microfiber cloth to avoid streaks on stainless steel surfaces. |
| Appliances | Clean the stove, oven, and microwave inside and out. | Oven cleaner, stovetop cleaner, microwave-safe cleaner. | Baking soda and water paste for oven, vinegar and water solution for stovetop and microwave. | Weekly | 30-60 minutes | High | Follow manufacturer's instructions for appliance cleaning. | Use a degreaser for tough stains on the stove. |
| Appliances | Empty and clean the microwave, including the turntable and interior walls. | Microwave cleaner or soapy water | Baking soda paste | Bi-weekly | 15 minutes | Medium | Ensure the microwave is unplugged before cleaning to prevent accidents. | Place a bowl of water with lemon slices inside the microwave and heat for a few minutes to loosen stubborn stains. |
| Sponges | Replace kitchen sponges and scrub brushes with new ones. | New sponges or scrub brushes. | Biodegradable sponges or brushes. | Bi-weekly | 5-10 minutes | Medium | Dispose of old sponges properly. | Allow sponges to air dry between uses to prevent bacteria growth. |
| Dishwashing | Empty, clean, and sanitize the dishwasher filter and spray arm. | Dishwasher cleaner, white vinegar. | White vinegar and baking soda solution. | Monthly | 15-30 minutes | Medium | Wear gloves when handling dishwasher parts. | Run an empty cycle with vinegar to sanitize the dishwasher. |
| Dishwashing | Clean the dishwasher filter and wipe down the door seal. | Dishwasher cleaner | Vinegar and baking soda | Monthly | 20 minutes | Medium | Wear gloves to protect hands from sharp objects in the filter. | Run an empty cycle with vinegar to remove any lingering odors. |
| Appliances | Clean the refrigerator inside and out, including shelves, drawers, and door seals. | All-purpose cleaner, vinegar solution for tough stains. | White vinegar and baking soda solution. | Monthly | 30-60 minutes | High | Unplug the refrigerator before cleaning. | Check for expired items and dispose of them before cleaning. |
| Storage Spaces | Organize cabinets and pantry, checking for expired items and reorganizing as needed. | Organizer bins | Reusable glass jars | Bi-monthly | 30 minutes | Medium | Handle glass jars carefully to avoid breakage. | Label containers with expiration dates to easily identify expired items. |
| Sponges | Replace kitchen sponges with new ones to prevent bacterial buildup. | Pack of new sponges | Eco-friendly cellulose sponges | Every 2 weeks | 5 minutes | High | Dispose of old sponges properly to avoid contamination. | Sanitize sponges by microwaving them for 1 minute or running them through the dishwasher. |
| Less Obvious Areas | Clean behind and under kitchen appliances like the refrigerator and stove. | Vacuum cleaner with attachments, microfiber cloth. | Use a microfiber cloth dampened with water. | Quarterly | 15-30 minutes | Low | Unplug appliances before cleaning. | Move appliances carefully to avoid damaging flooring. |
| Utensils | Check and clean utensil drawer, replace any damaged or worn-out utensils. | Dish soap, sponge. | Castile soap, bamboo cleaning brush. | Quarterly | 15-30 minutes | Low | Check for sharp utensils to avoid injury. | Organize utensils by type for easier access. |
| Less Obvious Areas | Clean behind and under kitchen appliances like the stove and refrigerator. | Vacuum cleaner with attachments | Microfiber cloths and a mop | Quarterly | 45 minutes | High | Unplug appliances before cleaning to prevent accidents. | Use a crevice tool to reach tight spaces behind appliances. |
| Storage Spaces | Organize and clean kitchen cabinets, pantry, and drawers. | Multi-surface cleaner, wood polish for wooden cabinets. | Vinegar and water solution for all surfaces. | Bi-annually | 1-2 hours | Medium | Use step stool or ladder for high cabinets. | Label containers and jars for easy identification. |
| Less Obvious Areas | Check and clean kitchen vents to ensure proper ventilation. | Vent cleaning brush, vacuum cleaner with hose attachment. | Use a damp cloth to wipe vents. | Bi-annually | 15-30 minutes | Low | Wear a mask to avoid inhaling dust. | Regularly change vent filters to maintain air quality. |
| Less Obvious Areas | Dust and clean vents and exhaust fan covers to ensure proper airflow. | Microfiber duster | Vinegar and water solution | Bi-annually | 20 minutes | Medium | Use a sturdy ladder if needed to reach high vents safely. | Vacuum vents after dusting to remove any debris. |
| Utensils | Check utensils for damage or wear and replace if necessary. | New utensils | Bamboo utensils | As needed | Varies | Low | Dispose of damaged utensils properly to avoid injuries. | Rotate utensils regularly to ensure even use and longevity. |
5. Detailed Airbnb Cleaning Checklist For Living Room
| Item Type | Task Description | Product Suggestion | Eco-friendly Alternative | Frequency | Estimated Time | Priority Level | Safety Precautions | Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flooring | Vacuum or sweep the floors to remove dust, dirt, and debris. | Vacuum cleaner or broom and dustpan | Natural bristle broom | Weekly | 15 minutes | High | Use caution when moving furniture to avoid back strain. | Spot clean any spills or stains immediately to prevent them from setting. |
| Furniture | Dust and wipe down all surfaces of the coffee table, side tables, and TV stand. | Microfiber cloth | Reusable cotton cloth | Weekly | 15 minutes | High | Watch out for fragile items on the tables. | Use a furniture polish for added shine. |
| Floor | Vacuum or sweep the floor, including under furniture and rugs. | Vacuum cleaner or broom | Manual carpet sweeper | Weekly | 20 minutes | High | Move furniture carefully to avoid scratching the floor. | Use a crevice tool to clean along baseboards and corners. |
| Furniture | Dust and wipe down all furniture surfaces including tables, shelves, and cabinets. | Microfiber cloth and multi-surface cleaner | Vinegar and water solution | Weekly | 30 minutes | High | Use a step ladder for high shelves to prevent falls. | Rotate furniture pieces occasionally to clean underneath and behind them. |
| Rugs | Vacuum or shake out rugs to remove dirt and dust. | Vacuum cleaner or rug beater | Hang rugs outside and beat them with a broom handle | Bi-weekly | 10 minutes per rug | Medium | Wear a mask if beating rugs to avoid inhaling dust. | Rotate rugs periodically to ensure even wear and tear. |
| Decorative Items | Dust and wipe down decorative items such as frames, vases, and figurines. | Microfiber cloth and gentle all-purpose cleaner | Damp cloth with a little soap | Monthly | 15 minutes | Low | Handle delicate items with care to avoid breakage. | Use a small paintbrush to dust intricate or delicate items. |
| Decorative Items | Dust and clean decorative items such as vases, sculptures, and picture frames. | Soft brush or microfiber cloth | Soft brush made from recycled materials | Monthly | 15 minutes | Low | Handle fragile items with care. | Rotate decorative items to prevent dust buildup in one spot. |
| Electronics | Dust and wipe down electronics such as TV, speakers, and gaming consoles. | Microfiber cloth and electronic-safe cleaner | Microfiber cloth slightly dampened with water | Monthly | 15 minutes | Medium | Unplug electronics before cleaning to avoid electric shock. | Use compressed air to clean dust from vents and crevices. |
| Electronics | Dust and wipe down electronics including TV, remote controls, and speakers. | Electronics cleaning wipes | Microfiber cloth dampened with water | Monthly | 15 minutes | Medium | Unplug electronics before cleaning. | Use a can of compressed air to clean vents and crevices. |
| Lighting Fixtures | Dust and wipe down light fixtures, lamps, and lampshades. | Microfiber cloth and dusting wand | Microfiber cloth dampened with water | Monthly | 15 minutes | Medium | Ensure lights are turned off and cool before cleaning. | Use a small brush to clean intricate details on lampshades. |
| Windows | Clean windows and window sills to remove dirt and smudges. | Glass cleaner and microfiber cloth | Vinegar and water solution | Monthly | 30 minutes | Medium | Use a sturdy step stool when cleaning high windows. | Clean windows on a cloudy day to prevent streaks from drying too quickly. |
| Windows | Clean windows and glass doors inside and out. | Glass cleaner and lint-free cloth | Vinegar and water solution | Monthly | 30 minutes | Medium | Use a sturdy step ladder if needed. | Clean windows on a cloudy day to prevent streaks from drying too quickly. |
| Light Fixtures | Dust and wipe down light fixtures and lampshades. | Microfiber cloth and gentle cleaner | Damp cloth with a little vinegar | Bi-monthly | 15 minutes | Low | Turn off lights and allow bulbs to cool before cleaning. | Use a lint roller to quickly remove dust from lampshades. |
| Air Vents | Vacuum or wipe down air vents to remove dust and debris. | Microfiber cloth and vacuum cleaner with brush attachment | Microfiber cloth and natural bristle brush | Bi-annually | 15 minutes | Low | Wear a mask to avoid inhaling dust and allergens. | Use a butter knife wrapped in a cloth to reach into narrow vents. |
| Curtains Or Blinds | Vacuum or dust curtains and blinds to remove dust and debris. | Handheld vacuum with brush attachment or microfiber cloth | Use a lint roller to remove dust from curtains | Bi-annually | 30 minutes | Low | Handle curtains and blinds gently to avoid damage. | Spot clean any stains on curtains with a mild detergent solution. |
