Mastering the Art of Cleaning: Top 10 Overlooked Surfaces in Your Vacation Rental

When I first started hosting, I thought cleaning was just about the basics: vacuuming, dusting, and scrubbing the bathroom. But as I welcomed more guests, I quickly realized that there are so many surfaces that often get overlooked. These hidden spots can accumulate dust, grime, and even odors, which can leave a lasting impression on your guests. So, let’s dive into the top ten overlooked surfaces in a vacation rental and how to keep them spotless.

The Importance of a Deep Clean

You might be wondering why it’s essential to focus on these overlooked areas. Well, I learned this lesson the hard way. One time, I had a guest who left a review mentioning a musty smell in the living room. I was mortified! After digging around, I discovered that the top of the ceiling fan hadn’t been cleaned in ages. It was a wake-up call for me to pay attention to every nook and cranny.

1. Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans are often neglected during regular cleaning. Dust can build up on the blades, and when the fan is turned on, it spreads that dust around the room. I recommend using a microfiber cloth or a pillowcase to wipe down the blades. This method traps the dust instead of sending it flying everywhere.

"I remember the first time I cleaned my ceiling fan. I was shocked at how much dust had accumulated. Now, I make it a point to clean it every time I do a deep clean. It’s a game changer!"

2. Light Fixtures

Light fixtures can also gather dust and grime. Not only do they affect the brightness of the room, but they can also look unsightly. Use a damp cloth to wipe them down, and don’t forget to check the bulbs. A burnt-out bulb can leave a bad impression on your guests.

3. Baseboards

Baseboards are another area that often gets overlooked. They can collect dust and dirt, especially in high-traffic areas. I like to use a damp cloth to wipe them down during my cleaning routine. It’s a small effort that makes a big difference.

4. Behind Appliances

When was the last time you cleaned behind the refrigerator or the stove? These areas can harbor crumbs and spills that attract pests. I learned this the hard way when I found a trail of ants leading to my kitchen. Now, I make sure to pull out appliances and clean behind them regularly.

5. Door Handles and Light Switches

These are high-touch areas that can accumulate germs. I always wipe down door handles and light switches with disinfectant wipes between guest stays. It’s a simple step that can help keep your guests healthy and happy.

6. Underneath Furniture

Dust bunnies can accumulate under couches and beds. I recommend using a vacuum with a hose attachment to reach these areas. It’s amazing how much dust can hide under there!

7. Shower Curtains and Liners

Shower curtains can develop mildew if not cleaned regularly. I like to wash mine every few weeks to keep them fresh. If you notice any stains, a mixture of vinegar and baking soda can work wonders.

8. Air Vents

Air vents can collect dust and allergens, affecting the air quality in your rental. I suggest vacuuming them regularly and changing the filters in your HVAC system. Your guests will appreciate the fresh air!

9. Trash Cans

Trash cans can get smelly if not cleaned regularly. I recommend washing them out with soap and water every time you do a deep clean. A fresh trash can can make a big difference in the overall smell of your rental.

10. Outdoor Spaces

Don’t forget about outdoor areas! Patios and balconies can collect dirt and debris. I like to sweep and wipe down outdoor furniture to keep it inviting for guests.

"One time, I had a guest comment on how clean my outdoor space was. It made me realize that these areas matter just as much as the inside of the house."

Creating a Cleaning Routine

Now that you know the top ten overlooked surfaces, it’s essential to create a cleaning routine that includes these areas. I found that setting aside time for deep cleaning every month helps keep everything in check. It’s also a good idea to do a quick clean between guest stays to ensure everything is fresh.

Hi, I am Marius
I hosted many people on Airbnb and I know the struggle of creating nice welcome books. So I built a tool that saves you tons of work by transforming your existing Airbnb listing into a professional welcome book featuring all the most important sections.
Airbnb listing URL
Start now!
Your benefits
It is free and saves you tons of time
It gives you a structure to include all imporant sections
It generates most content for you from your existing listing
It asks you for missing sections, so nothing is left out
It is beautifully designed, so no worry about fonts, colors etc.
It can be easily made a PDF, print or digital product
Loved by >500 hosts

The Guest Experience

Ultimately, a clean rental leads to happy guests. I’ve noticed that when I pay attention to these overlooked surfaces, my guests leave better reviews and are more likely to return. A clean space shows that you care about their experience, and it can set you apart from other rentals.

Conclusion

Cleaning a vacation rental is more than just a quick tidy-up. It’s about creating a welcoming environment for your guests. By focusing on these overlooked surfaces, you can ensure that your property remains immaculate and inviting. If you’re looking for a way to streamline your guest experience, consider creating a welcome book that includes cleaning tips and guidelines. It can be a great addition to your rental and help your guests feel at home.

Remember, a clean rental is a happy rental! Happy hosting!