Cleaning airbnb House in Durban
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As a long-time Airbnb host and local cleaning expert here in Durban, I know that keeping your House 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 Durban.
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 House 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 House spotless and ensuring guests have an exceptional stay in Durban. Follow these steps, and your property will always be in pristine condition, earning rave reviews from your guests.
1. Detailed Airbnb Cleaning Checklist For Basement
| Item Type | Task Description | Product Suggestion | Eco-friendly Alternative | Frequency | Estimated Time | Priority Level | Safety Precautions | Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Furniture | Dust and wipe down all furniture surfaces including tables, chairs, and shelves. | Multi-surface cleaner and microfiber cloth. | DIY cleaner with lemon juice and olive oil. | Bi-weekly | 30-45 minutes | Medium | Check for any fragile items before dusting. | Rotate furniture placement to avoid wear on specific areas. |
| Electronics | Dust and wipe down electronics such as TVs, speakers, and gaming consoles. | Electronics-safe cleaning wipes or microfiber cloth. | Microfiber cloth dampened with water. | Monthly | 15-30 minutes | Medium | Unplug electronics before cleaning to avoid electric shock. | Use a can of compressed air to clean vents and tight spaces. |
| Appliances | Clean and maintain appliances like a mini-fridge, microwave, or coffee maker. | Appliance-specific cleaners or vinegar solution. | Vinegar and baking soda paste for tough stains. | Monthly | 30-45 minutes | Medium | Unplug appliances before cleaning to avoid electric shock. | Run a cleaning cycle with vinegar for coffee makers. |
| Windows | Clean windows and window sills to ensure a clear view. | Glass cleaner, microfiber cloth, and squeegee. | Vinegar and water solution with a reusable cloth. | Monthly | 30-45 minutes | Medium | Use a sturdy step ladder if needed. | Open windows for ventilation after cleaning. |
| Storage Areas | Organize storage spaces such as closets, cabinets, and shelves. | Storage bins, labels, and storage organizers. | Use recycled cardboard boxes for storage. | Quarterly | 1-2 hours | Low | Avoid overloading shelves to prevent collapse. | Utilize vertical space with shelves or hanging organizers. |
| Vents | Vacuum or dust vents to ensure proper air circulation. | Vacuum with brush attachment or microfiber cloth. | Use a duster with an extendable handle. | Bi-annually | 30-45 minutes | Low | Wear a mask to avoid inhaling dust particles. | Schedule professional duct cleaning every few years. |
| Flooring | Vacuum or sweep the floor to remove dust and debris. | Vacuum cleaner or broom and dustpan. | Use a natural bristle broom or a vacuum with a HEPA filter. | After each guest departure. | 15-30 minutes | High | Watch out for sharp objects or small items on the floor. | Spot clean any spills or stains immediately. |
| General | Remove all clutter and personal items from the basement. | Storage bins or boxes for organizing items. | Use reusable fabric storage bags instead of plastic bins. | Before each new guest arrival. | 30-60 minutes | High | Wear gloves to protect hands from sharp objects. | Label storage containers for easy identification. |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sink Cleaning | Clean and sanitize the sink, faucet, and drain. | Disinfectant cleaner | Hydrogen peroxide solution | After each guest check-out | 10 minutes | High | Avoid mixing cleaning products to prevent harmful chemical reactions. | Use an old toothbrush to clean hard-to-reach areas around the faucet. |
| Toilet Cleaning | Scrub and disinfect the toilet bowl, seat, lid, and exterior. | Toilet bowl cleaner | Baking soda and vinegar | After each guest check-out | 10 minutes | High | Use gloves and ensure proper ventilation when using cleaning chemicals. | Let the cleaner sit for a few minutes before scrubbing for better results. |
| Floor Cleaning | Sweep and mop the bathroom floor thoroughly. | Floor cleaner | Vinegar and water solution | After each guest check-out | 15 minutes | High | Use caution when mopping to avoid slips and falls. | Start from the farthest corner and work your way towards the door for efficient cleaning. |
| Surface Cleaning | Wipe down all surfaces including countertops, shelves, and cabinets. | All-purpose cleaner | Vinegar and water solution | After each guest check-out | 15 minutes | High | Wear gloves to protect hands from cleaning chemicals. | Use microfiber cloths for streak-free cleaning. |
| Shower And Tub Cleaning | Clean and scrub the shower walls, tub, and fixtures. | Shower cleaner | Lemon juice and baking soda paste | After each guest check-out | 20 minutes | High | Ventilate the area while using cleaning products to avoid inhaling fumes. | Use a scrub brush to remove soap scum and grime effectively. |
| Trash Removal | Empty the trash bin and replace with a new liner. | Trash bags | Biodegradable trash bags | After each guest check-out | 5 minutes | Medium | Tie the trash bag securely to prevent spills. | Place a small deodorizer in the trash bin to keep the bathroom smelling fresh. |
| Bathroom | Wipe down and disinfect sink and faucets | All-purpose cleaner | Citrus-based cleaner | Daily | 5 minutes | High | Avoid mixing cleaning products | Dry the sink after cleaning to prevent water spots |
| General | Remove all trash and replace bin liner | Trash bags | Biodegradable trash bags | Daily | 5 minutes | High | Wear gloves | Separate recyclables from general waste |
| Bathroom | Clean and disinfect toilet, including seat, lid, and base | Toilet bowl cleaner | Baking soda and vinegar | Weekly | 10 minutes | High | Wear gloves and mask | Let the cleaner sit for a few minutes before scrubbing |
| Bathroom | Sweep and mop the floors | Floor cleaner | Vinegar and water solution | Weekly | 15 minutes | High | Use caution when mopping to avoid slipping | Start from the farthest corner and work your way towards the door |
| General | Dust and wipe down surfaces including countertops, shelves, and tables | Multi-surface cleaner | Vinegar and water solution | Weekly | 15 minutes | Medium | Ventilate the area when using cleaning products | Use microfiber cloths for better dusting |
| Bathroom | Scrub and sanitize bathtub and shower, including walls and fixtures | Bathroom cleaner with bleach | Castile soap and baking soda | Weekly | 20 minutes | High | Ventilate the area and wear gloves | Use a scrubbing brush or sponge with a handle for easier cleaning |
| Bathroom | Clean and shine mirrors and glass surfaces | Glass cleaner | White vinegar and water solution | Weekly | 5 minutes | Medium | Use a lint-free cloth to avoid streaks | Wipe in a circular motion for a streak-free finish |
| Bathroom | Clean and disinfect light switches and doorknobs | Disinfectant wipes | Homemade disinfectant spray | Weekly | 5 minutes | Medium | Ensure the area is well-ventilated | Focus on high-touch areas to prevent the spread of germs |
| Mirror Cleaning | Clean mirrors with glass cleaner for a streak-free shine. | Glass cleaner | Homemade glass cleaner with vinegar and water | Weekly | 5 minutes | Medium | Avoid spraying cleaner directly onto the mirror to prevent damage to surrounding surfaces. | Use a squeegee for a professional finish. |
| Vent Cleaning | Remove dust and debris from the bathroom vent cover. | Microfiber cloth | Microfiber cloth | Monthly | 10 minutes | Medium | Turn off the vent before cleaning to avoid injury. | Use a vacuum attachment to remove dust from inside the vent. |
| Bathroom | Clean and organize bathroom storage spaces, including cabinets and drawers | Organizing bins | Recycled cardboard dividers | Monthly | 30 minutes | Medium | Avoid overloading shelves and cabinets | Label containers for easy identification |
| Grout Cleaning | Scrub and clean grout lines between tiles to remove dirt and mold. | Grout cleaner | Baking soda paste | Quarterly | 30 minutes | Low | Ventilate the area and wear a mask when working with grout cleaner. | Seal grout lines after cleaning to prevent future stains and mold growth. |
| Bathroom | Check and refill toiletries such as hand soap, toilet paper, and tissue | Refill toiletry supplies | Bulk refillable options | As needed | 5 minutes | Medium | Check expiration dates on products | Provide extra supplies in a visible location for guests |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bedding | Change bed linens and pillowcases | Laundry detergent | Eco-friendly laundry detergent | Weekly | 10 minutes | High | Follow washing instructions on the labels | Air out pillows and duvets in the sun to freshen them up |
| Furniture | Dust all surfaces of the bed frame, headboard, nightstands, dressers, and any other furniture in the bedroom. | Microfiber cloth | Reusable dusting cloth | Weekly | 15 minutes | High | Use a stable step ladder if needed to reach high surfaces. | Start from the top and work your way down to prevent dust from settling on already cleaned areas. |
| Floor | Vacuum or mop the floor | Vacuum cleaner or mop | Vinegar and water solution for mopping | Weekly | 20 minutes | High | Use caution on wet floors to prevent slipping | Use a microfiber mop for efficient cleaning |
| Flooring | Vacuum carpets or rugs thoroughly, paying special attention to corners and edges. | Vacuum cleaner with attachments | Manual carpet sweeper | Weekly | 20 minutes | High | Check for small items that could clog the vacuum before use. | Use a crevice tool attachment to clean along baseboards and under furniture. |
| Bedding | Change and wash all bedding including sheets, pillowcases, duvet covers, and blankets. | Laundry detergent | Eco-friendly laundry detergent | Weekly | 30 minutes | High | Follow manufacturer's instructions for washing and drying. | Rotate different sets of bedding to extend the life of each set. |
| Furniture | Dust and polish furniture surfaces | Furniture polish or microfiber cloth | DIY furniture polish with olive oil and vinegar | Bi-weekly | 15 minutes | Medium | Test the polish on a small area first | Use a toothbrush to clean intricate details on furniture |
| Bed | Vacuum mattress and under the bed | Vacuum cleaner | Baking soda for deodorizing | Once a month | 15 minutes | High | Ensure the vacuum is unplugged before cleaning | Rotate and flip the mattress regularly for even wear |
| Light Fixtures | Dust and wipe down light fixtures, lampshades, and bulbs to ensure proper lighting. | Microfiber cloth and all-purpose cleaner | Microfiber cloth dampened with water | Monthly | 15 minutes | Medium | Turn off the power before cleaning light fixtures. | Use a microfiber cloth to prevent lint from sticking to the fixtures. |
| Windows | Clean windows and sills | Glass cleaner and microfiber cloth | Vinegar and water solution for windows | Monthly | 30 minutes | Medium | Use a sturdy ladder if needed | Clean windows on a cloudy day to prevent streaks |
| Windows | Clean windows and window sills inside and out for a clear view. | Glass cleaner and microfiber cloth | Vinegar and water solution with a reusable cloth | Monthly | 30 minutes | Medium | Use a sturdy ladder if necessary for exterior windows. | Clean windows on a cloudy day to prevent streaks caused by the sun drying the cleaner too quickly. |
| Curtains/blinds | Dust or vacuum curtains/blinds | Microfiber cloth or vacuum cleaner with attachment | Microfiber cloth | Every 2 weeks | 10 minutes | Medium | Be cautious when using a ladder if needed | Use a lint roller to quickly remove dust from blinds |
| Air Vents | Remove dust and debris from air vents to maintain air quality and circulation. | Soft brush attachment for vacuum cleaner | Compressed air can for blowing out dust | Quarterly | 10 minutes | Low | Wear a mask to avoid inhaling dust particles. | Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to trap dust and allergens. |
| Light Fixtures | Dust light fixtures and replace bulbs if needed | Microfiber cloth and light bulbs | LED light bulbs for energy efficiency | Quarterly | 15 minutes | Low | Turn off the power before cleaning or changing bulbs | Use a damp cloth for stubborn dust buildup |
| Air Vents | Vacuum or wipe down air vents | Microfiber cloth or vacuum cleaner with attachment | Microfiber cloth | Bi-annually | 10 minutes | Low | Wear a mask to prevent inhaling dust | Use a butter knife wrapped in a cloth to clean between vent slats |
| Closet | Organize and declutter the closet, dusting shelves and hangers, and vacuuming the floor. | Closet organizer and vacuum cleaner | Reuse existing storage solutions and manual carpet sweeper | Bi-annually | 30 minutes | Medium | Be careful when handling heavy items stored in high places. | Use vacuum storage bags to save space and protect seasonal clothing. |
4. Detailed Airbnb Cleaning Checklist For Garage
| Item Type | Task Description | Product Suggestion | Eco-friendly Alternative | Frequency | Estimated Time | Priority Level | Safety Precautions | Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General | Sweep the garage floor to remove dust and debris. | Broom and dustpan | Use a natural bristle broom or a rubber broom. | Weekly | 15 minutes | Medium | Wear a dust mask to avoid inhaling dust particles. | Start from the back of the garage and work your way towards the entrance to avoid stepping on the swept debris. |
| General | Sweep the garage floor to remove dirt and debris. | Broom and dustpan | Use a natural bristle broom | Weekly | 15 minutes | High | Wear a dust mask to avoid inhaling dust particles. | Start from one corner and work your way across the entire floor to ensure thorough cleaning. |
| General | Dust and wipe down shelves, storage cabinets, and any surfaces in the garage. | Microfiber cloth, all-purpose cleaner | Use a mixture of water and vinegar as a natural cleaning solution. | Bi-weekly | 20 minutes | Medium | Wear gloves to protect your hands from cleaning chemicals. | Organize items on shelves before cleaning to make the process more efficient. |
| Dust And Cobwebs | Remove dust and cobwebs from corners, ceilings, and light fixtures. | Duster and step ladder | Microfiber cloth | Monthly | 20 minutes | Medium | Use a stable ladder when cleaning high areas. | Work from top to bottom to prevent dust from settling on already cleaned surfaces. |
| General | Mop the garage floor with a mild detergent to remove any stains or spills. | Mop, bucket, mild detergent | Use a mixture of vinegar and water for a natural cleaning solution. | Monthly | 30 minutes | High | Ensure proper ventilation while using cleaning products. | Spot clean any stubborn stains before mopping the entire floor for efficient cleaning. |
| General | Mop the garage floor with a suitable floor cleaner. | Mop and floor cleaner | Vinegar and water solution | Monthly | 30 minutes | High | Ensure the area is well-ventilated while mopping. | Use a microfiber mop to effectively clean and absorb dirt from the floor. |
| Windows | Clean windows and glass surfaces for a clear view. | Glass cleaner and microfiber cloth | Vinegar and water solution | Bi-monthly | 20 minutes | Medium | Use a sturdy ladder if needed for high windows. | Clean windows on a cloudy day to prevent streaks caused by direct sunlight. |
| General | Inspect and clean light fixtures and bulbs in the garage. | Microfiber cloth, glass cleaner | Use a damp microfiber cloth with water for cleaning. | Quarterly | 15 minutes | Low | Ensure light fixtures are turned off before cleaning. | Replace any burnt-out bulbs during the cleaning process for a well-lit garage. |
| Garage Door | Wipe down and clean the garage door, including handles and tracks. | All-purpose cleaner and cloth | Baking soda paste | Quarterly | 30 minutes | Medium | Check for any loose parts before cleaning. | Lubricate the tracks after cleaning to ensure smooth operation. |
| General | Check and clean air vents and filters for proper ventilation. | Vacuum cleaner, damp cloth | Use a handheld vacuum with a brush attachment for eco-friendly cleaning. | Bi-annually | 30 minutes | High | Turn off the HVAC system before cleaning vents. | Mark the date of cleaning on the filter to keep track of replacement intervals. |
| General | Organize tools and equipment in designated storage areas for easy access. | Storage bins, labels | Reuse cardboard boxes or upcycled containers for storage. | As needed | Varies | Medium | Ensure sharp tools are safely stored to prevent injuries. | Label storage bins for quick identification of tools and supplies. |
| Storage | Organize tools, equipment, and storage boxes in designated areas. | Storage bins and shelves | Recycled cardboard boxes | As needed | Varies | Medium | Store sharp objects safely to prevent injuries. | Label storage containers for easy identification of items. |
5. Detailed Airbnb Cleaning Checklist For Kitchen
| Item Type | Task Description | Product Suggestion | Eco-friendly Alternative | Frequency | Estimated Time | Priority Level | Safety Precautions | Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Countertops | Wipe down countertops with a disinfectant cleaner, paying special attention to corners and edges. | Multi-surface cleaner | Vinegar and water solution | Daily | 10 minutes | High | Wear gloves to protect skin from harsh chemicals. | Use a microfiber cloth to prevent streaks on countertops. |
| Sink | Clean and sanitize the sink, including the faucet and drain. | Baking soda and vinegar | Lemon juice and baking soda | Daily | 5 minutes | High | Avoid mixing cleaning products that contain bleach. | Use an old toothbrush to scrub hard-to-reach areas around the sink. |
| Trash Bins | Empty and clean trash bins, replacing with new liners. | Trash bin deodorizer | Baking soda at the bottom of the bin | Daily | 5 minutes | High | Wear gloves when handling trash to avoid germs. | Use scented liners to keep the bin smelling fresh. |
| Appliances | Wipe down the exterior of all appliances including refrigerator, stove, microwave, and dishwasher. | Stainless steel cleaner | White vinegar | Weekly | 20 minutes | Medium | Unplug appliances before cleaning to avoid electric shock. | Use a microfiber cloth to avoid scratching appliance surfaces. |
| Floor | Sweep and mop the kitchen floor, paying attention to corners and under appliances. | Floor cleaner suitable for the floor type | Vinegar and water solution | Weekly | 30 minutes | High | Use caution when mopping to avoid slipping on wet floors. | Place rugs or mats in high-traffic areas to protect the floor. |
| Storage Spaces | Organize pantry, cupboards, and drawers, checking for expired food items. | Organizational bins or trays | Reuse glass jars for storage | Monthly | 1 hour | Medium | Check for pests or signs of infestation while organizing. | Label containers to easily identify contents and expiration dates. |
| Cabinets And Drawers | Wipe down cabinet doors, handles, and drawer fronts. | Wood cleaner for wooden cabinets, all-purpose cleaner for others | Olive oil and vinegar mixture for wooden cabinets | Monthly | 30 minutes | Medium | Use a step stool if needed to reach high cabinets safely. | Organize cabinets to make it easier to find items and keep them clean. |
| Hidden Areas | Clean behind and under appliances, such as the refrigerator and stove. | Vacuum cleaner with attachments | Baking soda to absorb odors | Quarterly | 30 minutes | Low | Unplug appliances before moving them for cleaning. | Use a flashlight to see into dark corners and spots. |
6. 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 floor to remove dust, dirt, and debris. | Vacuum cleaner or broom | Use a natural bristle broom for sweeping | Weekly | 10 minutes | High | Be cautious with electrical cords when using a vacuum cleaner. | Focus on high-traffic areas and under furniture for thorough cleaning. |
| Furniture | Dust and polish all surfaces of coffee table, side tables, shelves, and TV stand. | Furniture polish spray | Homemade furniture polish using olive oil and vinegar | Weekly | 15 minutes | High | Wear gloves to protect hands from chemicals in commercial polish sprays. | Use a microfiber cloth for dusting to avoid scratching the furniture. |
| Furniture | Dust all furniture surfaces including tables, shelves, and TV stand. | Microfiber cloth | Reusable dusting cloth | Weekly | 15 minutes | High | Avoid using harsh chemicals on wooden surfaces. | Start from the top and work your way down to prevent dust from settling on already cleaned surfaces. |
| Flooring | Vacuum or sweep the floor to remove dirt and debris. | Vacuum cleaner or broom | Manual carpet sweeper | Weekly | 20 minutes | High | Be cautious when moving furniture to avoid damage to the floor. | Use a crevice tool to clean along baseboards and corners. |
| Decor | Dust and clean decorative items such as frames, vases, and figurines. | Microfiber cloth and duster | Cloth made from recycled materials | Bi-weekly | 10 minutes | Medium | Handle delicate items with care to avoid breakage. | Rotate decorative pieces regularly to prevent dust buildup. |
| Electronics | Dust and wipe down electronics like TV, speakers, and gaming consoles. | Electronics cleaning wipes | Microfiber cloth dampened with water | Bi-weekly | 10 minutes | Low | Unplug electronics before cleaning to prevent damage. | Use a can of compressed air to clean vents and crevices. |
| Carpets | Vacuum carpets thoroughly to remove dust, dirt, and pet hair. | Vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter | Baking soda for deodorizing | Bi-weekly | 30 minutes | Medium | Check for small items or loose threads that could get caught in the vacuum. | Rotate rugs periodically to ensure even wear and tear. |
| Decorative Items | Dust and clean decorative items such as photo frames, vases, and ornaments. | Soft cloth or duster | Reusable microfiber cloth | Monthly | 10 minutes | Low | Handle delicate items with care to avoid breakage. | Use a soft brush attachment on a vacuum cleaner for intricate items. |
| Electronics | Dust and wipe down electronics like TV, speakers, and gaming consoles. | Electronics cleaning wipes | Microfiber cloth slightly dampened with water | Monthly | 15 minutes | Medium | Unplug electronics before cleaning to avoid electrical hazards. | Use a soft brush to gently clean vents and ports on electronics. |
| Light Fixtures | Dust and clean light fixtures, lamps, and lampshades for better lighting. | Lint roller and soft cloth | Microfiber cloth and vacuum with brush attachment | Monthly | 15 minutes | Medium | Turn off lights and allow bulbs to cool before cleaning. | Remove lampshades and wipe down bulbs for thorough cleaning. |
| Light Fixtures | Dust light fixtures and ceiling fans to remove dirt and cobwebs. | Microfiber duster | Feather duster | Monthly | 15 minutes | Medium | Turn off the power before cleaning light fixtures to avoid electric shock. | Use a ladder or extension pole for hard-to-reach areas. |
| Windows | Clean windows and glass surfaces using a glass cleaner and lint-free cloth. | Glass cleaner | Vinegar and water solution | Monthly | 15 minutes | Medium | Avoid using abrasive materials that could scratch the glass. | Clean windows on a cloudy day to prevent streaks caused by direct sunlight. |
| Windows | Clean windows and window sills inside and out for a clear view. | Glass cleaner and microfiber cloth | Vinegar and water solution for glass cleaning | Monthly | 20 minutes | Medium | Use a sturdy step ladder if needed for reaching high windows. | Wipe windows in a zig-zag motion to avoid streaks. |
| Air Vents | Check and clean air vents to maintain air quality and circulation. | Vent brush and vacuum with brush attachment | Use a microfiber cloth for wiping vents | Quarterly | 20 minutes | Low | Wear a mask to avoid inhaling dust and debris. | Vacuum or wipe the surrounding area after cleaning vents to capture any loose dust. |
| Curtains/blinds | Dust or vacuum curtains and blinds to remove dust and allergens. | Vacuum with brush attachment or duster | Hang curtains outside for a natural breeze to remove dust | Bi-annually | 30 minutes | Low | Be gentle with delicate fabrics to avoid damage. | Spot clean stains on curtains with a mild detergent solution. |
