The Ultimate Cleaning Checklist for 5-Star Reviews

Cleanliness is the #1 factor in guest satisfaction and reviews. A spotless property not only earns five-star reviews but also justifies premium pricing. This comprehensive checklist ensures nothing is overlooked.

Pre-Cleaning Preparation

Successful cleaning starts with proper preparation and the right supplies.

Essential Cleaning Supplies

• All-purpose cleaner
• Glass cleaner
• Bathroom disinfectant
• Floor cleaner
• Microfiber cloths (multiple colors for different areas)
• Vacuum with attachments
• Mop and bucket
• Toilet brush
• Scrub brushes
• Rubber gloves
• Trash bags
• Paper towels

Time Management

Allow adequate time between bookings. A thorough cleaning typically takes:

• Studio/1BR: 2-3 hours
• 2BR: 3-4 hours
• 3BR+: 4-6 hours

Room-by-Room Checklist

Kitchen

Appliances

• Clean inside and outside of refrigerator
• Wipe down microwave inside and out
• Clean oven and stovetop
• Wipe dishwasher exterior (run cleaning cycle if needed)
• Clean coffee maker and run descaling cycle
• Wipe down toaster/toaster oven

Surfaces and Storage

• Disinfect all countertops
• Clean and organize cabinets
• Wipe down cabinet fronts and handles
• Clean inside drawers
• Sanitize sink and faucet
• Polish sink fixtures

Details

• Clean backsplash
• Wipe light switches and outlets
• Clean range hood and filter
• Sweep and mop floor
• Empty and clean trash can
• Replace dish towels and sponges
• Restock supplies (dish soap, trash bags, etc.)

Bathrooms

Fixtures

• Scrub and disinfect toilet (bowl, seat, base, behind)
• Clean and polish sink and faucet
• Scrub shower/tub thoroughly
• Clean mirrors streak-free
• Disinfect countertops
• Polish all chrome fixtures

Surfaces

• Disinfect countertops
• Clean cabinet fronts
• Wipe down walls and tiles
• Clean light fixtures
• Dust and wipe baseboards

Details

• Sweep and mop floor
• Empty trash
• Replace towels (bath, hand, washcloth)
• Restock toilet paper
• Refill soap dispensers
• Replace bath mat
• Check and clean exhaust fan

Bedrooms

Bed

• Strip all bedding
• Check mattress for stains or damage
• Vacuum mattress
• Make bed with fresh linens
• Fluff and arrange pillows
• Smooth duvet/comforter
• Add decorative pillows

Furniture and Surfaces

• Dust all surfaces (nightstands, dressers, shelves)
• Clean mirrors
• Wipe light switches and outlets
• Clean lamp shades
• Organize closet
• Vacuum under bed

Details

• Vacuum or sweep floor
• Mop hard floors
• Empty trash
• Check and clean air vents
• Ensure adequate hangers in closet
• Test alarm clock

Living Areas

Furniture

• Vacuum upholstered furniture
• Check under cushions
• Dust all surfaces
• Clean coffee table and side tables
• Organize books and magazines
• Fluff and arrange pillows
• Fold throw blankets neatly

Electronics

• Dust TV and stand
• Clean remote controls
• Organize cables
• Test TV and remotes

Details

• Clean windows and window sills
• Dust blinds or wash curtains
• Wipe light switches and outlets
• Vacuum or sweep floor
• Mop hard floors
• Empty trash
• Water plants (if applicable)

Outdoor Spaces

• Sweep patio/deck
• Wipe down outdoor furniture
• Clean grill (if applicable)
• Remove cobwebs
• Empty outdoor trash
• Check outdoor lighting

Final Walkthrough

Before considering the job complete, perform a thorough inspection:

Visual Check

• Look for dust, dirt, or stains
• Check for cobwebs in corners
• Ensure all surfaces shine
• Verify proper staging

Functional Check

• Test all lights and replace bulbs
• Check HVAC settings
• Test appliances
• Verify hot water works
• Check door locks
• Test smoke and CO detectors

Supplies Check

• Toilet paper (at least 2 rolls per bathroom)
• Paper towels
• Trash bags
• Dish soap
• Hand soap
• Shampoo/conditioner
• Coffee and filters
• Basic spices and cooking oil

Quality Control

Photo Documentation

Take photos after each cleaning for:

• Quality assurance
• Training purposes
• Damage documentation
• Listing photo updates

Guest Feedback

Monitor reviews for cleanliness mentions. Address any issues immediately and adjust your checklist accordingly.

Managing Cleaning Staff

Training

Provide comprehensive training including:

• Your specific standards
• Property-specific details
• Time expectations
• Communication protocols

Accountability

• Use digital checklists
• Require photo documentation
• Conduct random inspections
• Provide constructive feedback

Efficiency Tips

• Work top to bottom, left to right
• Use color-coded cloths (e.g., blue for bathrooms, yellow for kitchen)
• Carry supplies in a caddy
• Clean as you go
• Batch similar tasks
• Use timers to stay on schedule

Deep Cleaning Schedule

Beyond turnover cleaning, schedule deep cleaning:

Monthly

• Clean inside oven
• Wash windows
• Deep clean carpets
• Clean behind appliances

Quarterly

• Wash walls
• Clean light fixtures thoroughly
• Shampoo upholstery
• Clean air ducts

Annually

• Professional carpet cleaning
• Pressure wash exterior
• Deep clean grout
• Service HVAC system

Conclusion

Consistent, thorough cleaning is non-negotiable for successful hosting. This checklist ensures you never miss a detail and maintain the high standards guests expect.

Want to build a professional cleaning operation? Our Professional Cleaning Systems course covers everything from checklists to staff management and quality control.