Long-term Airbnb guests are a double-edged sword: while they often provide reliable income and fewer turnover hassles, their extended stays can leave your property needing a deeper level of attention. Unlike short stays that typically require light cleaning and surface resets, long-term rentals demand a detailed, strategic approach to restore your space and wow the next guest.
If you’re a busy co-host in London or anywhere else, this in-depth guide will equip you with the cleaning and preparation blueprint you need after a guest checks out following an extended stay. From what to inspect first to how to reset for your next booking, let’s dive into everything you need to know to ensure your property stays spotless, hygienic, and 5-star ready.
1. Understanding the Impact of Long-Term Guests
A guest who stays for several weeks or even months naturally settles in more than a short-term visitor. Their presence impacts:
- Wear and tear: Appliances, upholstery, and kitchenware get more use.
- Cleaning intensity: Dust, grime, and buildup accumulate over time.
- Odor retention: Cooking smells, laundry odors, and general scents linger longer.
- Inventory depletion: Towels, linen, toilet paper, and kitchen supplies run low or are completely used.
Co-host Tip:
Before starting your turnover, review the guest’s check-out message or notes to anticipate any damage or extra attention needed.
2. Initial Walkthrough and Documentation
Start with a thorough inspection before lifting a mop or rag. This ensures you’re aware of any issues that require special attention.
What to check:
- Appliances: Look for food residue in microwaves, ovens, and fridges.
- Furniture and floors: Check for spills, scuff marks, and pet hair.
- Walls and corners: Look for fingerprints, stains, or cobwebs.
- Bathroom and kitchen tiles: Examine for mold or grime buildup.
Don’t forget:
- Take photos of any damage or excessive mess for documentation.
- Check for missing items from your inventory list.
3. Deep Cleaning Room by Room
Let’s break down the major cleaning tasks by area:
A. Living Room
- Vacuum under cushions and furniture.
- Clean electronics (TV screens, remotes) with alcohol wipes.
- Dust blinds, baseboards, and shelves thoroughly.
- Spot-clean any stains on carpets or area rugs.
B. Bedrooms
- Strip beds and inspect mattresses for stains or bedbugs.
- Wash pillow and duvet covers with hot water.
- Vacuum behind and under furniture.
- Check wardrobes for forgotten belongings and clean shelves.
C. Kitchen
- Empty and sanitize the fridge and freezer.
- Wipe inside cabinets and drawers.
- Clean oven, stovetop, and extractor fan filters.
- Soak and scrub utensils and cookware.
- Mop floors with a degreasing solution.
D. Bathroom
- Disinfect toilets, sinks, bathtubs, and tiles.
- Replace old or stained shower liners.
- De-scale faucets and showerheads.
- Restock essential toiletries and check expiration dates.
Co-host Tip:
Use a checklist to track tasks and ensure no area is overlooked, especially in kitchens and bathrooms where hygiene is critical.
4. Dealing with Odors and Air Quality
Long-term stays often result in deeper odors that simple air fresheners can’t mask. Address these effectively:
Odor-removal techniques:
- Open windows and air out the space fully.
- Use white vinegar or baking soda to neutralize smells in carpets or upholstery.
- Shampoo carpets or use a steam cleaner if necessary.
- Place activated charcoal or odor absorbers in closets and shoe racks.
- Wipe walls and ceilings with mild soapy water if smells persist.
Bonus Step:
Use an essential oil diffuser or linen spray with fresh scents like eucalyptus, lavender, or citrus to create a welcoming atmosphere.
5. Restocking and Replacing Essentials
Long-term guests may have used up your entire supply of certain items. Take this opportunity to:
Restock:
- Toilet paper, paper towels, and tissues.
- Cleaning products for guests (dish soap, detergent).
- Tea, coffee, sugar, and condiments (if you provide them).
- Basic first-aid items.
Replace if needed:
- Worn-out towels or linens.
- Broken dishes, glasses, or utensils.
- Burnt-out lightbulbs or remote batteries.
- Shower curtains or mats that look overused.
Co-host Tip:
Maintain an inventory sheet for each room so you can easily identify what needs replacing without second-guessing.
6. Check and Refresh the Exterior (If Applicable)
If your Airbnb has a patio, garden, balcony, or entryway, don’t forget these areas. First impressions are crucial, and a neglected exterior can hurt your reviews.
What to do:
- Sweep or power wash patios and steps.
- Wipe down outdoor furniture and railings.
- Empty trash bins and replace liners.
- Clean welcome mats or rugs.
- Remove cobwebs from corners or light fixtures.
7. Inspecting for Damage and Maintenance Issues
Long-term stays can reveal deeper wear and tear that shorter guests don’t cause.
Maintenance checklist:
- Test all appliances for functionality.
- Check plumbing for leaks or slow drainage.
- Examine walls for chipped paint or dents.
- Lubricate door hinges and window locks if needed.
- Check smoke and CO detectors.
If anything needs fixing, schedule it before your next guest’s arrival. Keeping up with small repairs now prevents negative reviews later.
8. Final Touches to Wow the Next Guest
Presentation matters. After all the hard cleaning work, it’s time to prep the space for a great first impression.
Final prep ideas:
- Fluff pillows and smooth out linens.
- Leave a personal note or small welcome gift (tea, chocolate, etc.).
- Adjust lighting to be warm and inviting.
- Make sure all remotes, guides, and instructions are in visible places.
- Set the thermostat to a comfortable setting based on the season.
9. Use a Professional Cleaning Service (If Needed)
Sometimes it’s best to call in the pros—especially when the mess or scale of cleaning is beyond what you can do alone.
Consider a professional cleaner when:
- The guest stayed 30+ days.
- You have back-to-back bookings.
- There are pet stains, smoke smells, or deep-set odors.
- You don’t have time or energy to do it right.
A good cleaning service can restore your unit faster and to a higher standard, helping you maintain those crucial 5-star reviews.
10. Creating a Cleaning Protocol for Long-Term Stays
To stay ahead of the game, you should create a custom checklist for long-term stay turnovers. This is especially useful if you’re working with other co-hosts or cleaning staff.
Include:
- A pre-clean walkthrough guide.
- A detailed cleaning checklist by room.
- A restocking and replacement list.
- Odor control steps.
- A maintenance issue log.
Bonus:
Use cleaning software like Turno, Breezeway, or Properly to manage tasks and schedule inspections.
Conclusion: Set the Gold Standard for Airbnb Turnovers
Cleaning after long-term guests isn’t just about wiping down surfaces. It’s about resetting the space to feel brand new and guest-ready. The extra effort you put in now ensures happy guests, glowing reviews, and continued bookings. Whether you’re handling things solo or managing a portfolio of properties, the key to successful hosting is attention to detail and consistency.
By following this guide, you’ll not only deep clean with confidence but also prep your space to meet the expectations of every incoming guest—even after the longest of stays.