Airbnb Deep Cleaning vs. Regular Cleaning: What’s the Difference?

Aisling Baile • December 11, 2024

Cleanliness can make or break an Airbnb guest’s experience. Regular cleaning keeps a property tidy, while deep cleaning takes it a step further to ensure every corner is spotless and every detail is attended to.

Understanding the distinction between these two types of cleaning is crucial for hosts who want to maintain high ratings and keep their properties in top shape. So, we’ll be breaking down why both times of Airbnb cleaning services are critical to running a successful business.

A golf course in the middle of a forest surrounded by trees.

What is Regular Cleaning?

Regular cleaning keeps your Airbnb presentable between guest stays. A few characteristics of regular cleaning are:

Routine maintenance: This cleaning typically occurs between guests and ensures the property is visually clean and free of common messes.
Common tasks: Typically, tasks include wiping down surfaces, vacuuming or sweeping floors, taking out the trash, and cleaning bathrooms and kitchens. Regular cleaning also involves restocking essentials like toiletries and replacing linens.
Frequency: The frequency of regular cleaning depends on guest turnover. In most cases, this occurs after every guest checks out, ensuring the property is ready for the next booking.

Ultimately, regular cleaning is efficient and focused on maintaining a high standard of cleanliness daily.

What is Deep Cleaning?

On the other hand, deep cleaning is a thorough and periodic cleaning that addresses areas often overlooked during regular cleanings.

Thorough yet periodic cleaning: Deep cleanings happen periodically rather than between every guest. These cleanings are much more thorough and focus on hard-to-reach areas and accumulated build-up.
Common tasks: A typical deep cleaning involves baseboards and windows, scrubbing grout, steaming rugs, and cleaning behind appliances. Deep cleaning can also include treating upholstery or polishing wooden fixtures to restore them to like-new condition.
Frequency: The right frequency for deep cleanings will vary based on the property and guest usage, but a good rule of thumb is once per quarter. Some properties may benefit from monthly cleanings, but annual cleanings are typically too long.

A sign that says `` units with pool access '' on a white background.

A sign that says `` units with beach access '' on a white background.

A person wearing yellow gloves is cleaning a counter in a bathroom.

Benefits of Deep Cleaning for Airbnb Hosts

Why is a deep Airbnb cleaning service worth the expense? Let’s explore a few of the primary benefits of deep cleaning to Airbnb operations.

Higher Guest Ratings

The most notable advantage is the potential for higher guest ratings. Guests are more likely to leave positive reviews when they notice a property is impeccably clean, as cleanliness is a major factor influencing their overall experience.

Extends Property Lifespan

Deep cleaning can help extend the lifespan of your property and its furnishings. Hosts can save money on repairs and replacements over time by addressing wear and tear, such as cleaning carpets and maintaining appliances.

Compliance with Airbnb Standards

Deep cleaning also maintains compliance with Airbnb standards, which often emphasize cleanliness as a critical factor in maintaining a listing’s status. Properties consistently meeting these standards will likely achieve Superhost status and attract repeat bookings.

Expertly Manage Your Airbnb with Aisling Baile

Keeping your property clean is paramount for every Airbnb property owner. Many owners know routine cleanings but miss out on deep cleaning, often resulting in worse guest experiences.

Is it time to stop neglecting deep cleaning and other management responsibilities regardless of how many properties you operate? Reach out to us today to learn more about our specialized property management services that keep your business running.