How Often Should a Short-Term Rental Be Professionally Cleaned?

Owning and managing a short-term rental property can be a lucrative venture, but it also comes with the responsibility of maintaining cleanliness and hygiene to ensure guest satisfaction. One of the most critical aspects of running a successful rental is determining how often the property should be professionally cleaned. A well-maintained rental not only enhances guest experience but also leads to better reviews, repeat bookings, and long-term profitability. So, how often should you hire a professional cleaning service? Let’s dive in.

Cleaning Between Every Guest Stay

The golden rule of short-term rental management is that the property must be cleaned after each guest checks out. Unlike long-term rentals, where tenants take responsibility for day-to-day cleaning, short-term rentals require a fresh and spotless environment for every new arrival. Professional cleaning after every stay ensures that:

• The property is in top-notch condition.
• There is no lingering dirt, dust, or odors from previous guests.
• High-touch areas such as doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls are sanitized.
• Bathrooms, kitchens, and living spaces are thoroughly cleaned and restocked.
• The linens, towels, and toiletries are refreshed.

A professional cleaning service ensures consistency and maintains a high standard that DIY cleaning may not always achieve.

Deep Cleaning on a Regular Basis

In addition to standard turnover cleaning, deep cleaning should be scheduled periodically to maintain a pristine condition. Deep cleaning goes beyond surface cleaning and targets areas that are often overlooked during regular turnovers. Some of the key tasks included in a deep clean are:

• Shampooing carpets and rugs.
• Washing curtains and upholstery.
• Scrubbing grout and deep-cleaning tile floors.
• Cleaning behind appliances, under furniture, and inside cabinets.
• Dusting and washing walls and baseboards.

It is recommended to schedule a deep clean at least once every three to six months, depending on the occupancy rate and property usage.

Seasonal Cleaning Adjustments

If your short-term rental experiences peak seasons, consider adjusting your cleaning frequency accordingly. During high-traffic periods, the wear and tear on your property will be more significant. Increased foot traffic means more dust, dirt, and the likelihood of accidental spills and stains.

For example:

• A beach house may need extra cleaning during the summer months due to sand and sunscreen residue.
• A ski cabin might require additional deep cleaning after winter to remove salt stains, melted snow, and mud.

Adapting your cleaning schedule based on seasonal demands ensures that your rental remains in excellent condition all year round.

Regular Maintenance Cleaning for Long-Term Health

While turnover cleaning focuses on guest readiness, regular maintenance cleaning is necessary to preserve the overall health of the property. This involves:

• Checking air filters and vents for dust accumulation.
• Inspecting for mold and mildew in bathrooms and kitchens.
• Cleaning out drains and garbage disposals.
• Wiping down outdoor furniture and patios.

Hiring a professional cleaning service to perform a thorough maintenance cleaning once a month can help prevent larger maintenance issues from arising.

Emergency Cleaning Situations

Sometimes, unexpected situations arise that require immediate professional cleaning. This may include:

• Guests leaving the property in a poor state.
• Spills, stains, or broken items needing specialized cleaning.
• Unexpected last-minute bookings requiring a quick turnover.

Having a trusted cleaning service on standby can help you address these emergencies efficiently and prevent disruptions to your rental business.

Why Invest in Professional Cleaning?

Professional cleaning services come with several advantages:

Consistency: A professional team follows a checklist, ensuring that no areas are overlooked.

Time-Saving: Hiring experts frees up your time, allowing you to focus on managing bookings and guest communication.

Better Reviews: Cleanliness is one of the top factors in guest reviews. A spotless property leads to higher ratings and increased bookings.

Compliance with Health Standards: Especially in a post-pandemic world, ensuring proper sanitation and hygiene is crucial.

Keep Renters Happy

Keeping your short-term rental clean is essential for guest satisfaction and long-term success. Professional cleaning should be done after every guest checkout, with deep cleaning scheduled every three to six months. Seasonal adjustments, regular maintenance cleaning, and emergency cleaning when necessary help maintain high standards. Investing in professional cleaning services not only ensures a pristine property but also enhances your rental’s reputation, leading to more bookings and higher revenue.

By prioritizing cleanliness, you can provide an exceptional experience for your guests and build a thriving short-term rental business.