Nothing kills a 5-star review faster than a dusty corner, a stray hair in the shower, or a mystery odor from the fridge.

You’ve nailed your pricing strategy. Your listing photos sparkle. Bookings are coming in. But then—a dreaded 3-star review lands. The reason? A guest found crumbs under the couch and smudges on the bathroom mirror.

Cleanliness isn’t just a hygiene issue—it’s a reputation issue. In the vacation rental business, one overlooked detail can lead to a negative review, which in turn hurts your OTA ranking, lowers your occupancy rate, and ultimately impacts your income.

But here’s the good news: A structured cleaning checklist for vacation rental properties can prevent all that.

This blog includes a complete vacation rental cleaning checklist to help you run a spotless operation that delights guests and earns consistent 5-star reviews.

Why every host needs a cleaning checklist for vacation rentals

According to a study by the American Hotel & Lodging Association, 81% of guests consider cleanliness the most crucial factor when deciding where to stay. A consistently clean property builds trust, increases occupancy rates, and reduces guest complaints — which means less stress for you and more revenue in your pocket.

A solid short-term rental cleaning checklist:

• Helps you maintain consistent standards (especially if you use cleaning staff)
• Speeds up turnovers between guests
• Ensures no detail is missed
• Keeps guests happy and returning

Pro Tip: Print and laminate your checklist for cleaners to tick off — or use a digital version for easy access and updates.

Detailed turnover vacation rental cleaning checklist 

Whether you're a host doing the cleaning yourself or managing a team, this vacation rental housekeeping checklist will ensure that every corner of your property shines. Here's what you need to do:

General (all areas):

• Safety & Functionality: Test that all lights, electronics, and appliances are working; replace any burnt-out bulb. Test smoke/CO detectors and replace batteries if low.
• High-Touch Surfaces: Disinfect doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, thermostats, and railings throughout the home​.
• Trash Removal: Empty all trash cans in every room and insert fresh liners. Check for any items left behind in drawers, closets, under beds, etc., and set them aside or dispose of appropriately​
• Floors: Vacuum and/or sweep all floors (including corners and under furniture) and then mop hard floors​. Shake out or vacuum entry mats and rugs.
• Air & Odor: Open windows briefly to air out spaces if weather permits. Ensure the home smells fresh (no smoke, pet, or food odors).
• Final Touches: Do a final walk-through of each room for anything missed. Set thermostat to a guest-comfortable setting, and ensure all windows are closed and locked. Secure the property (lock doors, replace keys in lockbox, etc.).

Entryway / Foyer:

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• Wipe down the front door (both inside and outside) and disinfect the handle/keypad​. Clean any glass panes so they are smudge-free.
• Sweep and mop the entryway floor (or vacuum if carpeted), including corners and baseboards. Remove any leaves, sand, or debris tracked in.
• Shake out the welcome mat or area rug at the door​, and clean beneath it.
• Ensure any entryway table or decor is dusted and neat. Place welcome brochure or house manual if provided.
• Check that coat racks or closets are empty and clean. Provide hangers or umbrella stand as applicable.

Living room / Lounge areas:

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• Dust & Surfaces: Dust all surfaces – coffee tables, shelves, blinds, windowsills, picture frames, wall art, electronics, and décor​. Don’t forget lamp bases, ceiling fan blades, and behind the TV.
• Furniture & Upholstery: Vacuum and spot-clean sofas, chairs, and cushions​. Remove couch cushions and clean underneath and between crevices to find any crumbs or lost items. Fluff and reposition pillows and throw blankets neatly.
• Flooring: Vacuum carpets/rugs and mop hard floors, including under any area rugs or movable furniture​. Remove any scuff marks if possible.
• Electronics: Gently clean the TV screen and any computer or theater screens with an appropriate cloth​. Disinfect remote controls, game controllers, stereo equipment, and light switches​. Replace remote batteries if weak.
• Fireplace (if present): If you have a fireplace or woodstove, empty all ashes and clean out any burnt wood/debris​. Wipe the hearth area. Restock firewood, kindling, or pellets in a neat pile for the next guest​. Ensure the damper is left per instructions (open or closed) and any gas valves are off.
• Miscellaneous: Tidy any books, magazines, or board games – return them to their designated place. Remove cobwebs from ceiling corners. Ensure curtains/blinds are clean (shake out or vacuum if needed) and open them for a welcoming appearance.

Dining room (or dining area):

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• Table & Chairs: Wipe down the dining table, including under the edges, and sanitize the surface. Clean and disinfect all chairs – seat, back, and even legs/arms and undersides​. If the dining chairs are upholstered, check for crumbs and spot-clean if needed.
• Floors: Sweep or vacuum the dining area floor, especially under the table, and mop if hard-surface. Make sure to get into corners where food might accumulate.
• Table Settings: If you stage place settings, ensure dishes and utensils are spotless. Replace any tablecloth or placemats with clean ones if provided.
• Miscellaneous: Dust any buffets, china cabinets, or sideboards. Clean dining room light fixtures (chandelier, pendant lights) of dust or cobwebs. Ensure any high chairs or booster seats (if provided) are wiped clean.

Kitchen:

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• Dishes & Appliances: Check for any dishes the guests left. Load and run the dishwasher, or hand-wash as needed​. Put away all clean dishes into the proper cabinets. Wipe out the sink and run the garbage disposal to clear any food scraps.
• Countertops & Cabinets: Wipe and sanitize all countertops, backsplashes, and the exterior of cabinets and drawers​. Don’t forget handles/knobs – they’re high-touch spots. Organize utensils and ensure drawers are crumb-free​.
• Appliances (Exterior): Clean appliance surfaces: scrub the stovetop and knobs, wipe the oven door, microwave inside and out (including the touchpad), and clean the refrigerator doors (including handles)​.
• Empty the fridge of any leftover food; dispose of expired items​. Wipe up any spills inside the fridge.
• Small Appliances: Empty the toaster crumb tray and wipe down the toaster. Clean the coffee maker (dump used grounds and rinse pot/filter; refill machine with a fresh filter for next guest). Wipe the kettle, blender, or any other small appliance provided​.
• Sink & Trash: Scrub and rinse the sink basin and faucet, removing any water spots or food residue. Sanitize the faucet handle. Empty the kitchen trash can, insert a new trash bag, and wipe the can inside and out if needed (no odors).
• Floors: Sweep or vacuum the kitchen floor, including under movable appliances (like under the stove drawer or fridge if accessible). Mop thoroughly with an appropriate cleaner, paying attention to corners and baseboards​.
• Restock Kitchen Supplies: Place a fresh paper towel roll on the holder​. Refill dish soap, set out a new sponge or scrubber, and leave dishwasher pods if the home has a dishwasher​. Ensure trash bags (at least a few spares) are available​. Restock any complimentary kitchen consumables like coffee, tea, sugar, salt, pepper, or cooking oil for guest use​. (See Restocking Checklist below for details.)

Bedrooms:

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• Bedding: Strip all used linens (sheets, pillowcases, duvet covers) from beds and launder them. Remake each bed neatly with fresh linens​. Ensure each bed has the appropriate pillows, shams, and a clean bedspread/duvet. Check that mattress protectors and pillow protectors are clean and dry; replace if soiled.
• Dust & Surfaces: Dust all furniture (nightstands, dressers, headboards) and décor (lamps, picture frames, ceiling fan, blinds) in the bedroom​. Don’t forget the top of headboards and inside open shelves. Wipe mirrors and window sills.
• Floor & Under Bed: Pick up and dispose of any trash or items on the floor. Check under the bed for any forgotten items or trash​. Vacuum or sweep under beds and inside closets​ (use an extension tool to reach). Vacuum carpets or mop hardwood floors in the bedroom, including edges and closets​.
• Furniture & Closet: Wipe down the fronts of dressers and inside empty drawers​. Clear off and clean the top of dressers and nightstands. Neatly arrange any guest-use items (like extra blankets or pillows) in the closet. Disinfect clothes hangers and place them to one side in the closet (all facing one direction for neatness).
• Finishing Touches: Empty any bedroom trash bins and add fresh liners. Gently spray fabric refresher or air freshener if desired (lightly). Ensure an alarm clock (if provided) is set to off. Close closet doors. Leave a set of towels on the bed or in an obvious place if that’s your practice.

Bathrooms:

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• Tub/Shower: Thoroughly clean the bathtub and/or shower. Scrub tiles and grout lines to remove soap scum and mildew. Clean fixtures, showerhead, and shower rods, polishing chrome to a shine​. If there is a glass shower door, clean it with glass cleaner (no water spots) and wipe the door tracks. If a shower curtain is used, ensure the liner has no mildew (replace it if it does) and the curtain is clean.
• Toilet: Clean and disinfect the entire toilet: bowl (inside and under the rim), seat (both sides), lid, tank, and base​. Don’t forget the flush handle and hinges – they should be germ-free and shiny.
• Sink & Counter: Clean the bathroom sink and faucet, removing any toothpaste or soap residue​. Wipe down all countertop surfaces and vanity tops, disinfecting thoroughly. Clean the mirror above the sink until it’s streak-free.
• Cabinets & Fixtures: Wipe down the front of vanity cabinets and drawers. Check inside drawers/cabinets for any guest items or trash and clean inside if needed. Polish towel bars, faucet spouts, and other chrome fixtures so they are free of spots and fingerprints​.
• Floor & Ventilation: Sweep and mop the bathroom floor, including behind the toilet and in corners. If there are any bath mats/rugs, remove and wash them between guests. Ensure the bathroom vent fan is working and clean (vacuum dust from the grill if accessible).
• Towels & Linens: Remove used towels, washcloths, and bath mats and replace with a fresh set of clean towels for each bathroom. Fold or hang them neatly (e.g., hang clean towels on towel racks or fold on countertops).
• Restock Bathroom Supplies: Replenish toilet paper (leave extra rolls in an obvious spot) and facial tissues​. Restock toiletries: at minimum, hand soap, shampoo, and body soap. For a luxury touch, also provide conditioner, lotion, and other amenities as needed. Ensure soap dispensers are full or place new soap bars. (See Restocking Checklist below.)
• Final Check: Empty the bathroom trash can and insert a clean liner. Make sure no hair or debris is left in the tub, sink, or on the floor (a quick lint-roller or damp microfiber cloth can pick up stray hairs). Leave the bathroom smelling fresh and clean.

Laundry room / Utility room: (if your rental has one for guest use)

• Washer & Dryer: Wipe down the top and front of the washer and dryer. Check inside the washer drum for any left-behind clothes or dirt; likewise, check the dryer drum for items. Clean the dryer lint trap thoroughly every time​ – this is important for safety.
• Surfaces & Storage: Clean and organize any shelves or cabinets in the laundry area​. Make sure any provided cleaning supplies (stain removers, extra detergents) are neat. Wipe down countertops or utility sinks.
• Floor: Sweep or vacuum and mop the laundry room floor. Pay attention to corners and behind appliances if accessible. If possible, periodically pull out the washer and dryer to clean the floor and walls behind them (at least monthly)​.
• Restock Laundry Supplies: If you provide laundry soap, fabric softener, or dryer sheets for guests, check that there is an adequate supply and restock as needed. (See Restocking Checklist.)
• Others: Empty the trash in the laundry area and check that ironing equipment (iron, ironing board) is clean and ready if provided. Ensure any utility closet items (vacuum, broom) are returned to their places.

Outdoor areas (decks, balconies, patios, & yard):

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• Sweep & Tidy: Sweep any patios, decks, balconies, and walkways​ to remove leaves, sand, and dirt. Don’t forget exterior stairways and the garage/carport/driveway if applicable – remove loose debris and cobwebs​. In winter climates, ensure walkways are clear of snow/ice (if in season).
• Doors & Entry: Clean the insides and outsides of patio doors (glass and frames) so they are clear​. Wipe down door handles. Shake out and brush off doormats at all exterior doors​.
• Outdoor Furniture: Wipe down all outdoor furniture (tables, chairs, loungers) and railings​. Remove any pollen, bird droppings, sand, or residue so that seating is clean. Straighten and arrange furniture neatly. For cushions, check they are dry and clean; replace or store any that are excessively dirty or wet.
• Grill & BBQ: (See separate Grill section below if applicable.) Clean the grilling area of any food remnants or grease spills. Ensure grill tools are cleaned and placed where they belong.
• Fire Pit: (See Fire Pit section below if applicable.) Clean out ash and debris from fire pits. Check surrounding area for trash (like burned foil or skewers) and dispose of it.
• Yard & Garden: Pick up any trash, cigarette butts, or pet droppings in the yard. If there’s a pool deck, clear away leaves (see Pool section). Check outdoor lights (like porch or pathway lights) and replace bulbs if needed. Water outdoor plants if instructed.
• Amenities: Ensure any outdoor amenities like cornhole sets, bicycles, kayaks, etc., are clean and stored safely. Close and lock any outdoor storage sheds after use.

Outdoor grill / BBQ area: (if provided)

• Grill Grates: Scrub the grill grates with a grill brush to remove any food residue or char from the last use. If extremely dirty, use a degreaser or soak grates as needed, then rinse.
• Interior & Drip Pan: Clean out any ash (for charcoal grills) or clean the drip pan (for gas grills) once the grill is completely cool. Make sure no old charcoal or grease remains that could attract pests or create smoke.
• Exterior Surfaces: Wipe down the grill’s exterior, side trays, knobs, and handle with a suitable cleaner to remove grease and fingerprints. Clean any nearby countertops or bar areas as well.
• Fuel Check: Ensure there is sufficient fuel for the next guest. If it’s a gas grill, check the propane tank and replace or refill if low (or have a spare tank available). For charcoal grills, restock an adequate amount of charcoal and lighter fluid if you supply them.
• Utensils: Clean grill utensils (brushes, tongs, spatulas) and put them back in their storage spot. Replace any overly burnt or worn-out grilling accessories as needed.
• Cover: If a grill cover is provided, make sure to cover the grill once it’s clean and cooled, to keep it dry and ready for the next guest.

Fire pit: (outdoor fire pit or outdoor fireplace)

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• Ash Removal: Once ashes are fully cooled, scoop out and dispose of ash and burnt wood from the fire pit or bowl. Use a metal container for ash disposal if available, and store it safely.
• Cleaning: Remove any trash from the fire area (bottles, cans, foil, partially burned items). Wipe the rim and exterior of the fire pit if there’s soot or dirt build-up (a damp cloth can help). For gas fire tables, wipe down the burner area and ensure ports are not clogged.
• Surroundings: Sweep the area around the fire pit to remove leaves, ashes, or debris. If there is dedicated seating (like benches or chairs), wipe those down as well.
• Wood & Fuel: Restock firewood or fire logs if you provide them, and keep them in a dry, accessible spot (but not so close as to be a hazard). Ensure any fire starters or kindling offered are replenished. For propane fire features, check the propane level as you would for a grill.
• Safety Check: Make sure any fire pit screen or cover is in good condition and available for use. Double-check that no embers are smoldering if a fire was recent. Close any spark guards or lids.

Pool: (if your property has a pool)

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• Skim & Clean: Use a pool net to skim the water surface for leaves, bugs, or debris so the pool looks inviting and clear for the next guests. Also empty the skimmer baskets of debris.
• Pool Deck: Tidy up the poolside area. Put away any pool toys or floats (clean them if needed, or discard if damaged). Straighten pool chairs or loungers and wipe them down if they are wet or dirty. Ensure the deck is free of trash and wipe up any spills.
• Water & Filter: Check that the pool water is clear. If you maintain the pool yourself, test the chemical levels (chlorine, pH) and adjust as necessary to ensure the pool is properly sanitizedfor the next guests. Run the pool filter if on a timer or if it was off during cleaning. If a professional service handles chemicals, at least verify the pump and filtration are functioning and schedule service as required.
• Equipment: Ensure any safety equipment (life ring, pool alarm) is in place and functional. If the pool has a cover that should be on between guests or at nighttime, secure it according to your standard procedure. Otherwise, leave the pool uncovered and clean for guest arrival (in warm seasons).
• Surroundings: Wipe down any outdoor kitchen or bar area near the pool if one exists. Make sure outdoor showers (if any) are clean and working, and that paths to the pool are not slippery or obstructed.
• Periodic Note: Regularly schedule deep maintenance like filter cleaning and shocking the pool water, especially during heavy use periods​. (These tasks might be weekly or as needed, typically handled by a pool service or during off-days.)

Hot tub / Spa: (if your property has a hot tub or jacuzzi)

• Water Quality: Check and balance the water chemicals using test strips or a kit​. Ensure chlorine/bromine and pH levels are within the safe range for guest use (adjust if necessary by adding chemicals). Proper sanitation is crucial for hot tub safety​.
• Clean Tub Surface: Skim out any debris from the water. Wipe around the waterline of the tub to remove any buildup or residue​ (scum lines can form from oils). Clean the hot tub’s interior surfaces with a sponge or cloth if needed for any dirt.
• Hot Tub Cover: Remove the cover and wipe it down – clean the underside that faces the water (it can get moldy) and the top vinyl to remove dirt​. Once cleaning is done and chemicals are balanced, recover the hot tub securely to keep the heat in and debris out. Ensure the cover is not torn and locks properly if it has straps.
• Jets & Filter: Run the jets for a minute to ensure they’re functioning well (this also helps circulate any chemicals added). If the water level is low, top it up to the proper level. If the stay was long or usage was heavy, rinse out the filter cartridge (hot tub filters should be cleaned monthly under normal use).
• Amenities: Make sure hot tub steps are sturdy and clean. If you provide spa towels separately, make sure they are laundered and available. Check that any lighting or controls on the hot tub work properly.
• Signage: Ensure any posted instructions or safety rules near the hot tub are present and legible for the next guest.
• Periodic Note: Plan a thorough hot tub service every few months. At least every 3–4 months, drain and refill the hot tub completely and deep-clean the tub and filters​. This ensures water stays fresh and equipment remains in good condition for guests.

Game room / Recreation room: (if you have a dedicated game room or area)

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• General Cleanliness: Treat the game room like an extra living area – dust all surfaces (shelves, windowsills, any wall-mounted game unit), and clean the floor (vacuum carpet or sweep/mop hard floors, including corners). Remove any trash (snack wrappers, etc.) left behind.
• Electronics & Games: Wipe down and sanitize game controllers, arcade machine controls, billiard cues, ping-pong paddles, or any other gaming equipment. Disinfect high-touch surfaces on games like foosball handles or poker chips. Ensure board games have all pieces neatly in boxes; organize any video game discs or accessories back in place.
• Pool Table: If there’s a pool table, brush the felt to pick up chalk and lint, and re-rack the balls for a neat presentation​. Place the pool balls in the triangle and lay the pool cues nicely (some hosts even cross two cues on the table as a touch)​. Make sure chalk is available and not crumbled on the table.
• Furniture: Wipe any bar counter, high-top tables, or stools in the game room. If there’s a sofa or media area, vacuum it as you would in the living room.
• Extras: Replace any used playing cards or ping-pong balls if damaged (keep spares on hand). If the room has a dartboard, make sure darts are intact and holes in the wall (if any) are noted for repair. For video game consoles, ensure they are plugged in and controllers are docked or have batteries.
• Ambiance: Tidy up any decor. For example, if there’s a shelf of books/games, straighten them. This room should look fun and ready to use. If there’s a dedicated TV or screen here, ensure it’s cleaned and remotes are working.

Home theater / Media room: (if you have a theater room or movie projector area)

• Seating: Vacuum and wipe down theater seats, recliners, or couches. Check between seat cushions for trash (popcorn, etc.) and remove it. If the seats are leather or faux leather, wipe them with an appropriate cleaner to remove oils or marks. Neatly arrange any blankets or pillows.
• Equipment: Dust the projector and shelving (do not disturb projector lens focus, just dust the exterior gently). Clean the television or projector screen gently for fingerprints or smudges (use a soft, dry cloth or specialized screen cleaner). Dust any speakers, soundbar, or subwoofers in the room.
• Electronics: Verify the DVD/Blu-ray player or streaming device is functional. Make sure all remotes (projector remote, AV receiver remote, etc.) are present and have batteries. Organize any DVDs or media collections neatly.
• Snack Area: If there’s a popcorn machine or minibar in the theater, clean them. For a popcorn machine, discard old popcorn, wipe interior glass and surfaces. Wipe down any mini-fridge or cabinets, and restock supplies (popcorn bags, etc.) if provided.
• Lighting: Make sure dimmable lights, sconces, or LED strips in the theater are working. Replace bulbs if needed.
• Flooring: Vacuum the floor, including risers or platforms under seats if the theater has tiers. Mop if it’s hard floor. Ensure no sticky spots (from spilled drinks) remain; spot-clean any carpet stains.
• Environment: Check that any A/V equipment is left in a standard setup for guests (e.g., system on the correct input, easy to use). Leave a quick instruction sheet if needed (laminated, perhaps). Close curtains or shades to darken the room slightly for an impressive first impression.

Gym / Fitness room: (if your rental has exercise equipment)

• Equipment Cleaning: Wipe down and disinfect all gym equipment surfaces – this includes treadmill handles, weight machine seats and knobs, dumbbells, yoga mats, etc.​. Use a germicidal spray or wipes safe for fitness gear. Pay special attention to high-touch points and any sweat residues.
• Floors & Mirrors: Sweep/vacuum and mop the gym floor. If there are rubber mats or flooring, mop with an appropriate cleaner (or wipe down puzzle mats). Clean any full-length mirrors or wall mirrors to remove fingerprints or streaks.
• Towels & Amenities: Remove used towels (if any) and provide a stack of fresh clean towels for workouts​. Refill any water dispenser or replace the water cooler jug if it’s empty. Wipe down countertops or benches. Ensure a small trash can is empty with a new liner.
• Organization: Re-rack weights on the rack in order. Neatly coil resistance bands or jump ropes and return them to their hooks or drawers. Make sure yoga mats are rolled up and stored. Basically, leave the room orderly – like a tidy public gym.
• Ventilation: Check the AC or fan in the gym is working (guests will want airflow). If there’s a window, you might open it briefly to freshen the air, then close/lock it.
• Equipment Check: Do a quick functionality check: e.g., does the treadmill start, is the safety key in place, are electronic consoles off (or in demo mode)? Any obvious issues (like a loose bolt or frayed cable) should be noted to the host for maintenance.
• Extras: Clean any fitness accessories (e.g., wipe yoga blocks, ensure medicine balls aren’t sticky). If a TV is in the gym, dust it and verify the remote works. The gym should smell clean (you can use a light air freshener appropriate for gyms).

Children’s play area: (indoor playroom or outdoor play equipment)

• Indoor Playroom: Put away all toys, games, and art supplies in an organized manner (use bins or shelves as labeled). Disinfect plastic toys and surfaces – especially items toddlers are likely to put in their mouth (use non-toxic sanitizer wipes)​. Wipe down play tables, toy boxes, and shelves. Clean any chalkboard or whiteboard if used.
• Floor & Furniture: Vacuum or mop the playroom floor (crumbs and glitter love to hide in corners!). Pay attention under bean bags or play tents. Wash or wipe foam play mats. If there is a kids’ rug, vacuum it thoroughly and consider using a carpet deodorizer if needed (ensure no small toys are hiding).
• Stuffed Toys & Dress-up Clothes: If there are plush toys or costumes and they appear dirty, wash them periodically. At a minimum, lint-roll plush animals to remove dust and hair. Arrange them neatly (e.g., sitting up on a shelf or bed).
• Books & Puzzles: Make sure puzzles have all pieces and are put back in their boxes. Stand books upright on the shelf. Replace any broken toys (or remove them).
• Outdoor Play Equipment: If there’s an outdoor playground or swing set, do a quick safety check: no broken pieces or loose bolts. Wipe down slides, swings, and handrails to remove dirt or bird droppings. Rake sandbox sand to remove debris (and cover the sandbox if you have a cover, to keep animals out). Clear the area of tripping hazards.
• Pool/Beach Toys: For beach houses, rinse off outdoor toys (buckets, shovels, floats) to remove sand and salt, and store them neatly. For lake cabins, ensure life vests or paddles are hung up and dry.
• Baby Gear: If you provide items like a crib, high chair, stroller, or playpen, clean and sanitize each: wipe down high chair tray and seat, wash the crib sheet, sanitize crib rails, and vacuum the travel crib or stroller fabric. Ensure no loose hardware. Set them up or store as appropriate (e.g., folded in a closet if not needed).

Restocking checklist (Consumables & Amenities)

Ensure the following supplies are replenished for each new guest. This list covers essential toiletries, kitchen basics, and other items guests expect. (Quantities will depend on length of stay and group size, but a good rule is to provide at least a starter amount of each.)

Kitchen & general supplies: (replenish these in the kitchen or pantry)

Item to be stocked?

• Coffee (ground or pods, plus filters if needed)
• Tea (assorted tea bags)
• Sugar and sweeteners
• Creamer (or milk pods/powder)
• Basic spices (salt, pepper, cooking oil)
• Paper towels (rolls)
• Trash bags (kitchen size) – include extras​
• Dish soap (liquid)
• Dishwasher detergent (pods or powder)
• New kitchen sponge or scrubber
• Multi-surface cleaner spray (under sink, for guest use)

Bathroom supplies: (stock each bathroom with these items)

Items to be stocked?

• Toilet paper – at least 2 extra rolls per bathroom​
• Facial tissues (tissue box)
• Hand soap (liquid pump or new bar)
• Shampoo (travel size bottle or pump dispenser)
• Conditioner (travel size or pump)
• Body wash or soap bar
• Lotion (optional, nice for luxury homes)
• Extra amenities (shower cap, vanity kit, etc., if provided)
• Feminine products (optional emergency supply)

Laundry & cleaning supplies: (If guests have access to laundry or need to tidy up)

Items to be stocked?

• Laundry detergent (pods or liquid)​
• Dryer sheets or fabric softener
• Bleach or stain remover (if provided)
• Vacuum, broom, and dustpan (clean and in working order)
• Extra light bulbs and batteries (for guests or maintenance)

Bedding & linen supplies:

• Spare Linens: Ensure at least one extra set of bed linens is on hand for each bed (in case of mid-stay accidents)​.
• Extra Towels: Provide extra bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths (guests appreciate plenty of towels). If a pool or hot tub is present, stock pool towels separately​.
• Pillows/Blankets: Have a couple of spare pillows with clean pillowcases, and an extra blanket or two available (especially for sofa beds or extra guests).

Specialty Items:

• Propane or Charcoal: Check propane tank levels for the grill and replace or refill if low; if using charcoal, leave a fresh bag for guests.
• Firewood: If a fireplace or fire pit is advertised and in season, stock a reasonable amount of firewood, plus kindling or fire starter sticks. Keep them dry and neatly stacked.
• First Aid & Safety: Verify the first-aid kit is stocked (bandages, basic meds) and that flashlights have working batteries.
• Welcome Pack: If you provide a welcome basket (e.g., snacks, bottled water, wine, local treats), refill it and replace items as needed. (Not mandatory, but common in luxury rentals.)

By restocking all the above, you ensure guests have everything they need and never run out of essential supplies during their stay​

Periodic deep-cleaning tasks (weekly/monthly/seasonal)

This short term rental cleaning checklist goes beyond basics. In addition to the routine turnover checklist above, certain deep-clean tasks should be done periodically to maintain your property in top condition. Schedule these on a weekly, monthly, or seasonal basis as appropriate:

• Kitchen Deep Clean: Clean the inside of the oven and remove baked-on spills (monthly). Pull out and clean behind/under large appliances like the refrigerator and stove quarterly​ Wipe down inside of cabinets and drawers, and clean cabinet fronts thoroughly. Descale the coffee maker and kettle.
• Appliance Maintenance: Empty and clean the refrigerator completely on a schedule (e.g., monthly), including shelves and crisper drawers​. Vacuum refrigerator coils (if accessible) to improve efficiency. Run a self-clean cycle on ovens if available. Clean the dishwasher filter and add rinse aid​.
• Living Areas: Shampoo or steam-clean carpets and area rugs seasonally (or as needed for stains). Wash or dry-clean curtains and drapes a few times a year​. Polish wooden furniture with proper polish. Remove sofa covers or pillow covers and wash them. Pull out sofas, media cabinets, and other heavy furniture to vacuum behind and underneath​. Wipe down baseboards and door trim throughout the house.
• Bedrooms: Wash mattress protectors, pillow protectors, and comforters/duvets periodically (every few weeks or at least between season changes)​. Flip or rotate mattresses every 3-6 months to ensure even wear. Empty and vacuum inside closets and dressers occasionally to remove dust.
• Bathrooms: Soak and clean shower heads to remove mineral deposits (e.g., in vinegar) a few times a year. Deep scrub grout lines and re-seal if necessary to prevent mildew​. Remove and launder fabric shower curtains or replace liners every few months​. Clean exhaust fan covers and lighting fixtures.
• Laundry/Utility: Pull out the washer and dryer and clean behind/under them (monthly or quarterly)​. Clean the washing machine drum (run a cleaning cycle with vinegar or washing machine cleaner). Vacuum out the dryer vent duct to remove lint buildup (fire safety!).
• HVAC: Replace HVAC filters on the schedule recommended (often quarterly). Dust and vacuum out air vents and ceiling fan motors to reduce dust. Have heating/cooling systems and chimneys serviced annually.
• Windows & Doors: Wash windows (interior and exterior) seasonally, including wiping down frames and cleaning window tracks​. Remove and clean window screens. Wipe scuff marks or repaint walls/high-traffic areas as needed.
• Outdoor Upkeep: Power wash decks, patios, and exterior walls or siding annually (e.g., at the start of spring). Deep clean outdoor furniture thoroughly after a season of use​. Clean out gutters (if a standalone home) before rainy season. Trim any overgrown plants around paths.
• Pool/Spa: Schedule professional service for pool and hot tub periodically. For pools, this might include filter deep-cleaning or backwashing and a thorough chemical balance check monthly. For hot tubs, drain and refill every 3-4 months as noted​, and soak the filter in cleaning solution. Inspect hot tub hardware and cover for wear when drained.
• Seasonal Prep: Before high season, do a full deep clean of the property (all the above as needed) to reset everything. Before low/off-season or if property will sit vacant, clean and then cover or store outdoor furniture, and set HVAC to a maintenance mode. For beach houses, rinse off any salt buildup on windows and metal fixtures frequently to prevent corrosion. For cabins, check for any signs of pests or rodents and address accordingly.

By staying on top of these deep-clean tasks, you’ll prevent grime build-up and maintain a truly pristine home. Many of these tasks need not be done between every guest, but incorporating them regularly (and keeping records of it) will ensure your vacation rental stays sparkling clean and well-maintained​, delighting guests and protecting your property’s value.

Guest-ready cleaning confirmation (simplified checklist)

Use this simple checklist as a handoff or display for guests, confirming that the property has been cleaned and prepared to high standards. 

• Overall Cleanliness: The entire property has been cleaned and sanitized. All rooms have been dusted, vacuumed, and mopped, and surfaces disinfected.
• Fresh Linens & Towels: Beds are made with fresh linens, and a full set of clean towels is provided for each guest. (Spare linens and towels are available if needed.)
• Kitchen Ready: Kitchen is spotless – counters and dining table sanitized, dishes cleaned and put away, and appliances wiped down. Complimentary coffee, tea, and kitchen basics are stocked for your convenience.
• Bathroom Ready: Bathrooms are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. Toiletries (shampoo, soap, toilet paper) are restocked, and fresh towels and bath mats are in place.
• Stocked Supplies: Essential supplies have been restocked, including paper towels, trash bags, dish soap, and laundry detergent. You should find everything you need for a comfortable stay.
• Amenities Prepared: All special amenities have been cleaned and are ready to enjoy. (Hot tub/Pool water is clean and balanced, the grill is cleaned, the game room and/or theater is tidy, etc.) If your rental has these features, they have each been checked and prepared for use.
• Outdoor Areas: Outdoor spaces (patio, deck, yard) have been swept and arranged. Furniture is clean and set up. Any outdoor entertainment areas, like the fire pit or BBQ, are cleaned out and ready with supplies on hand.
• Final Inspection: The home was inspected prior to your arrival. All lights, appliances, and electronics are in working order, and the property is secure and welcoming. We’ve done a final walkthrough to ensure nothing was missed so you can have a worry-free, 5-star stay.

Final thoughts: Cleanliness = 5-Star reviews

Cleanliness is not a “nice to have”—it’s the foundation of a successful rental business. With a detailed vacation rental cleaning checklist, you minimize guest complaints, maximize your rating, and create a memorable vacation rental guest experience that gets guests coming back.

So whether you're managing one property or scaling to ten, use this short term rental cleaning checklist as your north star.