Deep Cleaning Your Short Term Rental: How Often and What to Focus On

As a short-term rental host, maintaining a pristine property is crucial for guest satisfaction and glowing reviews. While regular cleaning between guest stays is essential, deep cleaning your rental periodically ensures a truly spotless environment and addresses hidden grime that can accumulate over time. In this blog, we’ll discuss how often you should deep clean your rental and what key areas to focus on for maximum impact.

Why Deep Cleaning is Essential

Deep cleaning goes beyond the surface to tackle areas that aren’t usually addressed during regular cleaning sessions. It helps to:

  • Eliminate hidden dust and allergens

  • Prevent mold and mildew growth

  • Extend the lifespan of furnishings and appliances

  • Ensure a fresh and welcoming environment for guests

How Often Should You Deep Clean?

The frequency of deep cleaning depends on several factors, including the turnover rate of your rental and the general behavior of your guests. However, a good rule of thumb is:

  • Every 3-4 months: For rentals with high turnover rates or in peak seasons.

  • Every 6 months: For properties with moderate turnover.

  • Annually: For rentals with low occupancy or as a general guideline.

Key Areas to Focus On During Deep Cleaning

1. Kitchen

  • Appliances: Clean the oven, microwave, refrigerator, and dishwasher thoroughly. Remove and clean refrigerator shelves and wipe down the interior.

  • Cabinets and Drawers: Empty, clean, and disinfect all cabinets and drawers. Check for expired items and restock essentials.

  • Countertops and Backsplash: Scrub countertops and backsplash to remove stains, grease, and grime.

2. Bathroom

  • Tiles and Grout: Scrub tiles and grout lines to remove soap scum and mildew. Use a grout cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar for tough stains.

  • Fixtures: Clean faucets, showerheads, and toilets thoroughly. Remove any mineral deposits with a suitable cleaner.

  • Ventilation: Check and clean the bathroom exhaust fan to ensure it’s free from dust and working efficiently.

3. Living Areas

  • Upholstery and Carpets: Vacuum and steam clean carpets and upholstered furniture. Treat any stains and ensure all fabrics are fresh and odor-free.

  • Windows and Blinds: Clean windows inside and out. Dust and wipe down blinds or wash curtains as needed.

  • Baseboards and Corners: Dust and clean baseboards, and don’t forget the hard-to-reach corners where dust and cobwebs accumulate.

4. Bedrooms

  • Mattresses: Vacuum and rotate mattresses. Consider using a mattress cleaner or baking soda to remove odors.

  • Under the Bed and Furniture: Move furniture and clean underneath. Dust can accumulate quickly in these hidden areas.

  • Closets: Empty closets and clean the shelves and floors. Check for any forgotten items and ensure hangers and storage bins are tidy.

5. General Areas

  • Air Vents and Filters: Clean air vents and replace HVAC filters to ensure good air quality.

  • Light Fixtures and Ceiling Fans: Dust and clean light fixtures and ceiling fans. Replace any burnt-out bulbs.

  • Walls and Doors: Wipe down walls and doors to remove fingerprints, smudges, and dust.

Tips for an Effective Deep Cleaning

  • Create a Checklist: A detailed checklist ensures no area is overlooked. Break down tasks by room to stay organized.

  • Use the Right Tools: Invest in quality cleaning supplies and tools, such as microfiber cloths, a good vacuum, and appropriate cleaning solutions.

  • Take Your Time: Deep cleaning is thorough and time-consuming. Don’t rush the process; allocate sufficient time for each task.

  • Consider Professional Help: If deep cleaning feels overwhelming, consider hiring professional cleaners for a thorough job.

Deep cleaning your short-term rental is a vital part of property maintenance, ensuring a clean, healthy, and inviting space for your guests. By focusing on key areas and maintaining a regular deep cleaning schedule, you can enhance guest satisfaction and keep your rental in top-notch condition. Happy hosting!

Amber Shue