Pro Tips to Grow Your Airbnb Cleaning Business

The demand for Airbnb and short-term rental cleaners continues to rise – but so does the competition. To truly grow your Airbnb cleaning business, great cleaning isn’t enough. Hosts look for reliability, professionalism, communication, and systems that make their lives easier.

This guide breaks down actionable strategies you can use to expand your client base, improve your workflow, and deliver five-star results every time.

Know What Hosts Really Want

Speed, Consistency, and Reliability

Short-term rental hosts operate on tight turnover windows. They need cleaners who arrive on time, follow instructions, communicate clearly, and execute with consistency. When you build a reputation for reliability, you become a partner – not just a service provider – and that means more repeat bookings and referral growth.

Reputation Matters More Than Anything

A small oversight can turn into a negative guest review, which directly impacts a host’s income. The best Airbnb cleaners understand this and position themselves as part of the guest experience. Protecting a host’s rating makes you invaluable.

Use Checklists to Standardize Your Quality

Checklists Minimize Mistakes

Busy turnover days can lead to skipped steps if everything lives only in your head. A repeatable cleaning checklist ensures every detail is covered – from high-touch points to staging pillows in the right place. Standardized checklists also help maintain consistency when you service multiple units.

Help Train New Team Members Faster

As you grow, you’ll likely bring on extra help. A clear, documented checklist allows new cleaners to get up to speed quickly and reduces the risk of quality drops.

Invest in Time-Saving Tools & Systems

Tools That Boost Efficiency

The right tools can dramatically improve speed and quality. Consider:

• Fast-drying microfiber cloths

• Commercial-grade vacuums

• Labeled, portable supply bins

• Rolling or wearable caddies for quick access

• Duplicate sets of linens to avoid delays

These upgrades help you finish jobs faster and handle more daily turnovers.

Digital Tools Reduce Stress

Using digital checklists, shared calendars, or simple workspace tools keeps scheduling streamlined and prevents misunderstandings. It also shows hosts that your business operates professionally – a big differentiator in a competitive market.

Elevate Your Communication & Professionalism

Clear Communication Builds Trust

A quick message confirming your arrival and departure, reporting damages, or sharing supply needs goes a long way. It helps hosts manage their rentals more effectively and positions you as a proactive partner.

Establish a Preferred Channel (Text, Email, App)

Setting a consistent communication channel prevents missed messages and reduces stress for both you and the host. Clarity = fewer issues and smoother operations.

Set Policies to Protect Your Time

Cancellation, Last-Minute Changes & Emergency Fees

As your business grows, you must protect your schedule. Written policies for cancellations, rushed turnovers, or emergency calls keep expectations clear and ensure you’re compensated fairly. Boundaries are essential for long-term success.

Build a Reputation That Drives Referrals

Go Beyond “Clean” – Add Hospitality Touches

Airbnb cleaning is part cleaning, part staging. Hosts love cleaners who handle the extra touches that elevate guest experiences:

• Restocking amenities

• Folding towels hotel-style

• Light staging for photos

• Ensuring the entryway is spotless and welcoming

These touches justify higher rates and make you more memorable.

Photo Documentation Adds Professionalism

Sending final walkthrough photos or before/after snapshots boosts trust and reassures hosts their property is guest-ready, even when they’re miles away.

Expand Strategically & Smartly

Know When You're Ready to Grow

You may be ready to scale if:

• You’re turning down clients

• You’re consistently overbooked

• Your schedule is full weeks in advance

• Laundry or supply management is overwhelming

Growth may mean raising prices, hiring help, or outsourcing laundry.

Hire the Right Support Team

Start with part-time assistants to lighten the load. Even a few extra hours of support can help you take on more clients while keeping your quality high.

Train With Clear Systems

Use:

• Checklists

• Video walkthroughs

• Simple, repeatable processes

This ensures a consistent experience across every property, no matter who cleans it.

Add Value With Optional Add-On Services

Upsells help you earn more per client without adding new properties to your route. Hosts love services such as:

• Deep cleaning

• Linen and laundry service

• Fridge cleanouts

• Patio and outdoor cleaning

• Restocking packages

Turn Tips Into Action: What to Do Now

Start strengthening your cleaning business now

• Implement a Cleaning Checklist Template.

• Visit Symple Leases for service-pro growth tips.

• Explore more Airbnb & turnover cleaning guides on the Symple Leases blogs.