airbnb turnover cleaning checklist

Standard Operating Procedure: Vacation Rental Turnover Sanitation & Staging

Document Control

• Document ID: SOP-OPS-[__________]
• Version: 1.0
• Effective Date: [__________]
• Review Cycle: Quarterly

1. Purpose & Scope

This document outlines the mandatory sanitation, maintenance, and staging protocols for [Property Name/Unit ID]. The objective is to ensure a 5-star guest experience by maintaining consistent hygiene standards and operational efficiency between guest stays. This protocol applies to all cleaning staff and property managers overseeing the turnover process.

2. Prerequisites

• Cleaning Kit: Multi-surface cleaner, glass cleaner, disinfectant (EPA-approved), toilet bowl cleaner, stainless steel polish, floor cleaner.
• Equipment: HEPA-filter vacuum, microfiber cloths, color-coded sponges (Red for bathrooms, Blue for kitchens), mop/bucket, broom.
• Inventory: Fresh linens (sets: []), towels (sets: []), toiletries, guest amenity kits, paper products, and [__________].
• Access: Digital key code/lockbox access for [Property Name].

3. Roles & Responsibilities (RACI)

R = Responsible, A = Accountable, C = Consulted, I = Informed

4. Step-by-Step Turnover Procedure

Phase 1: Preparation & Ventilation

• Open all windows to circulate air while cleaning.
• Remove all used linens and towels; place in designated laundry bin.
• Inspect property for damages or missing items; document via [App Name/Form].

Phase 2: Kitchen & Dining

• Empty refrigerator and freezer of all guest items.
• Wipe down interior and exterior of appliances (fridge, oven, microwave, dishwasher).
• Sanitize all countertops, sink basin, and faucet hardware.
• Run dishwasher with empty load or verify cleanliness of dishware.
• Refill dish soap, sponge, and paper towel inventory.

Phase 3: Bathroom Sanitation

• Scrub and disinfect toilet (bowl, seat, base, handle).
• Clean shower/tub walls and fixtures; remove hair from drains.
• Polish mirrors and glass surfaces to streak-free finish.
• Replenish toiletries (shampoo, body wash, soap).
• Place fresh towel sets: [] bath, [] hand, [__________] washcloths.

Phase 4: Sleeping Quarters & Common Areas

• Strip beds and inspect mattress protectors; replace with fresh linens.
• Dust all surfaces, including baseboards, ceiling fans, and light fixtures.
• Vacuum all carpets and rugs using HEPA-filter equipment.
• Mop hard floors with [Solution Type].
• Stage pillows and throws per [Staging Guide Reference].

Phase 5: Final QA & Secure

• Perform "Guest Eye" walk-through: check for stray hairs, dust, or odors.
• Verify all light bulbs are functional.
• Lock all windows and doors.
• Submit "Ready for Guest" status to [Management System].

5. Quality Assurance & Pro-Tips

• The 5-Minute Rule: Spend the final 5 minutes sitting on the sofa or lying on the bed to identify overlooked issues from a guest perspective.
• Pro-Tip: Use a scent-neutral disinfectant to avoid triggering guest allergies or sensitivities.
• Common Pitfalls: Forgetting to check inside the microwave, failing to empty the vacuum canister, and leaving personal cleaning supplies in guest view.

6. FAQs

Q: How long should a standard turnover take for this unit? A: A standard turnover for this unit should be completed in [] hours by a team of [] people.

Q: What should I do if I find damage that prevents a new guest from checking in? A: Immediately document the damage with photos, contact the [Property Manager] at [Phone Number], and do not finalize the "Ready" status in the system.