Five-star reviews start with a spotless space. Whether you manage one vacation rental or ten, a consistent turnover checklist ensures every guest walks into a home that looks and smells brand new. Here is the system our team uses for dozens of Airbnb properties across Northern Colorado.
Before You Start
Set a timer. For a standard 2-bedroom unit, allow 90 minutes for a full turnover. Knowing your target keeps the process efficient, especially on back-to-back bookings.
Bring your kit. Prepare a caddy with all-purpose cleaner, glass cleaner, disinfectant, microfiber cloths, fresh linens, toilet brush, trash bags, and a laundry bag. Having everything in one place saves trips back and forth.
Living Areas and Common Spaces
- Remove all trash and check under cushions, behind furniture, and in drawers for items left behind
- Dust all surfaces including shelves, TV, remotes, light switches, and baseboards
- Wipe down all hard surfaces with disinfectant
- Vacuum carpets and mop hard floors
- Fluff and arrange pillows and throws
- Check that all light bulbs work and replace as needed
Kitchen
- Empty and wipe the refrigerator — check for expired items
- Run the dishwasher if needed, then put away all clean dishes
- Clean stovetop, oven exterior, and microwave interior
- Wipe countertops, backsplash, and cabinet fronts
- Restock dish soap, sponges, paper towels, and trash bags
- Check that all cookware, utensils, and plates match your inventory list
Bedrooms
- Strip all bedding and replace with freshly laundered sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers
- Check mattress protectors — wash or replace if stained
- Dust nightstands, lamps, and headboards
- Empty all drawers and closets of previous guest items
- Vacuum under the bed and in corners
- Place folded extra blankets at the foot of the bed for a hotel touch
Bathrooms
- Scrub and disinfect the toilet inside and out, including the base — avoid the common bathroom cleaning mistakes that leave odors behind
- Clean the shower/tub, paying special attention to grout and glass doors
- Wipe the vanity, mirror, and faucet until they shine
- Replace all towels with freshly laundered sets — fold or roll them neatly
- Restock toilet paper (at least two rolls), hand soap, and shampoo/conditioner
- Check the drain for hair and clear if needed
Final Walkthrough
Before you lock up, do a guest-eye walkthrough. Stand in the doorway of each room and scan for anything out of place. Check that the thermostat is set to a comfortable temperature, all doors and windows are locked, and any welcome amenities (coffee, snacks, a guest book) are in position.
Take a quick photo of each room for your records — this protects you in case of damage claims and helps maintain consistency across turnovers.
A reliable turnover process is the difference between a 4-star and a 5-star review. If managing turnovers is taking too much of your time, our team specializes in Airbnb cleaning throughout Northern Colorado — we handle the clean so you can focus on hosting.
