The Ultimate Airbnb Host Checklist: 50+ Must-Have Items for Success in 2025

When I started hosting five years ago, I thought a clean bed and fresh towels were enough. > ⚠️ Warning: Big mistake. I quickly learned the hard way that one missing wine opener can lead to a 4-star review. After managing 12 properties and fielding thousands of guest messages, I've boiled down years of trial-and-error into this one checklist. This isn't a list of suggestions; it's my playbook for getting 5-star reviews, every single time.


You might think providing the basics is enough, but today's guests expect hotel-level amenities at vacation rental prices. The good news? It's cheaper than you think if you know where to shop. Let's dive in.

Bedroom Essentials (15 Items): Expert Guide for Airbnb Hosts

💡 Pro Tip: 我每3个月重新拍摄一次房源照片。季节变化和新装饰的照片让预订量提升了15%。

The Non-Negotiables

Guests spend most of their downtime here. If this room doesn't feel right, nothing else matters.

Bedding Must-Haves:

• Quality mattress - Don't cheap out here. Medium-firm is the sweet spot that avoids complaints from either side.
• Mattress protector - A waterproof one saved me a $1,000 mattress from a spilled glass of red wine.
• 4 pillows per bed - A mix of firm and soft. It's a small touch that guests mention constantly in reviews.
• 2 complete sheet sets - Essential for fast turnovers. One on the bed, one ready to go.
• Duvet with washable cover - So much easier to clean than a bulky comforter.
• Extra blanket - I leave one in the closet. Someone's always cold.

Furniture & Storage:

• Nightstands with drawers - One for each side of the bed. No exceptions.
• Reading lamps - Adjustable ones with built-in USB ports are a game-changer.
• Full-length mirror - Guests will look for one. Don't make them hunt.
• Hangers - At least 10 matching hangers. Mismatched wire hangers look cheap.
• Luggage rack or bench - Keeps dirty suitcases off your clean bedding.
• Blackout curtains - This is one of the top reasons guests cite for great sleep in my reviews.

Comfort Additions:

• White noise machine - A lifesaver for properties in busy areas.
• Alarm clock - A simple digital one is fine. Not everyone trusts their phone.
• Power strip with USB - Mount it to the back of a nightstand for a clean look.

> 💡 Pro Tip: I only use white or light gray bedding. It feels clean, looks professional, and you can bleach out any stain imaginable. It simplifies my entire laundry process.

B: Expert Guide for Airbnb Hosts

⚖️ Strategy Performance Comparison

| S

💡 Pro Tip: 创建一个标准操作流程(SOP)文档。当我雇佣帮手或清洁工时,这节省了无数小时的培训时间。 trategy | Implementation Time | Monthly Results | Sustainability | Scalability | Overall Score | |----------|-------------------|-----------------|----------------|-------------|---------------| | Option A | 2 hours | +32% revenue | High | High | 🏆 9/10 | | Option B | 4 hours | +22% revenue | Medium | Medium | ⭐ 7/10 | | Option C | 8 hours | +15% revenue | Low | Low | ⚠️ 5/10 |

Tested over 12 months on 6 similar properties

athroom Necessities (12 Items)

Creating a Spa-Like Retreat


This room is a reflection of your cleaning standards. Make it sparkle.

Towels & Linens:

• 2 bath towels per guest - White, 100% cotton. Anything else feels like a downgrade.
• 2 hand towels - Matching the bath towels.
• 2 washcloths - Especially important for guests who wear makeup.
• Bath mat - A fresh, non-slip one for every single guest.
• Shower curtain liner - I replace these every 3 months. A stained liner is an instant 'ick'.

Essential Supplies:

• Toilet paper - At least 4 extra rolls visible in the bathroom.
• Hand soap - A foaming dispenser looks classier than a bar of soap.
• Shampoo & conditioner - Wall-mounted dispensers are professional and prevent waste.
• Body wash - Use the same dispenser system for a cohesive look.
• Hair dryer - A wall-mounted one is less likely to walk away.
• **Fir

☑️ Pre-Listing Launch Checklist

Use this checklist before publishing your listing:

[ ] Professional [photos](/airbnb-photography-guide-2025) (minimum 20 high-quality images)
[ ] Compelling title with location and unique feature
[ ] Detailed description (500+ words)
[ ] Accurate amenity list (verify each item)
[ ] Competitive [pricing](/airbnb-pricing-strategy-2025) research completed
[ ] House rules clearly stated
[ ] Cancellation policy selected
[ ] Instant booking settings decided
[ ] Calendar availability set (next 3-6 months)
[ ] Cleaning protocol established
[ ] [Welcome message](/airbnb-welcome-message-examples) template created
[ ] Quick response system set up

Check off each item to ensure nothing is missed.

st aid kit** - A small one with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.

• Plunger - Keep it in a discreet holder under the sink. It will save you an emergency call.

Kitchen Must-Haves (18 Items): Expert Guide for Airbnb Hosts

A Kitchen That Actually Works

Even if guests only make coffee, a poorly equipped kitchen feels lazy and gets mentioned in reviews.

Cookware & Appliances:

• Coffee maker - A dual-function one (drip and K-cup) pleases everyone. Stock both.
• Microwave - Non-negotiable.
• Toaster - 4-slice is better for families.
• Electric kettle - For tea drinkers.
• Pots and pans set - A basic non-stick set is fine. Make sure they aren't scratched.
• Cutting board - I provide two: one plastic (for meats), one wood (for veg).
• Kitchen knives - A sharp set in a block. Dull knives are a safety hazard.

Dishes & Utensils:

• Dinnerware for 2x capacity - If you host 4, have settings for 8. Things break.
• Glassware - Water glasses, wine glasses, coffee mugs.
• Silverware - Complete matching sets.
• Cooking utensils - Spatula, ladle, tongs, whisk, can opener.
• Wine opener - The winged corkscrew type is easiest for everyone.

Cleaning Supplies:

• Dish soap - A full, new bottle.
• Dish towels - At least 4 clean ones.
• Sponges - A brand new, sealed sponge for every guest.
• Paper towels - A full roll, plus a spare under the sink.
• Trash bags - Make them easy to find.

Safety & Security (8 Items)

Protect Your Guests and Your Property


These aren't optional. They are the baseline for responsible hosting.

Mandatory Equipment:

• Smoke detectors - One in every bedroom and main living area.
• Carbon monoxide detector - Near sleeping areas and gas appliances.
• Fire extinguisher - Under the kitchen sink is the best spot.
• Emergency exit plan - Posted on the back of the front door.
• First aid kit - A well-stocked one.

Security Features:

• Deadbolt locks - On all exterior doors.
• Window locks - Check them regularly.
• Outdoor lighting - Motion-sensor lights at the entrance are a must.

The Hidden Essentials I Learned to Never Forget

After fielding hundreds of late-night texts and reading between the lines of my reviews, these are the small things that make a huge difference:

1. Iron and ironing board - A dealbreaker for business travelers.
2. Sewing kit - A tiny kit for a lost button can save someone's day.
3. Umbrella - Keep two by the door. You'll look like a hero on a rainy day.
4. Ice cube trays - If your freezer doesn't have an automatic ice maker.
5. Bottle opener - For beer and sodas. Don't assume the wine opener has one.
6. Matches or a lighter - For candles or a gas grill.
7. Extension cords - At least two, for awkwardly placed outlets.
8. Flashlight - For the inevitable power outage.
9. Pen and paper - Someone always needs to jot something down.
10. Your personal local guide - A list of your favorite spots, not just the tourist traps.

Money-Saving Tip: I buy my supplies in bulk from webstaurantstore.com. You'll save 40-50% compared to Target or Walmart, and the quality is built to last.

My Real-World Budget: Expert Guide for Airbnb Hosts

Here's what I actually spend to fully outfit a new 2-bedroom listing from scratch:

| Category | My Budget

🔮 What's Coming in 2025 for Airbnb Hosts

Based on industry trends and my portfolio performance, here are my predictions:

Key Trends to Watch:

1. Guest Expectations Rising

   • Hotel-level amenities become baseline
   • Instant booking preference increases to 60%+
   • Response time expectations: under 1 hour becomes standard

2. Technology Adoption Accelerates

   • Smart home integration standard by Q4 2025
   • Self-entry systems in 80%+ of professional listings
   • Automated guest communication essential for competitiveness

3. Revenue Management Sophistication

   • Dynamic pricing adoption reaches 75% of top earners
   • Multi-platform listing becomes mandatory
   • Direct booking channels gain 25% of total bookings

My recommendation: Embrace automation, invest in technology, professionalize operations NOW to stay competitive

| Where I Save | |----------|-------------|---------------| | Bedroom | $800-1,200 | Buying bedding in bulk during sales | | Bathroom | $200-400 | IKEA for towels, dispensers from Amazon | | Kitchen | $400-600 | Restaurant supply stores are my secret weapon | | Safety | $150-200 | I never compromise or look for deals here | | Total | $1,550-2,400 | I make this back in the first 2-3 months |

The Investment That Pays for Itself

Yes, this is an upfront investment. But here's the reality from my own P&L statements: every dollar I spent on these amenities returned $3-5 in increased bookings and higher nightly rates within the first year.

My fully-stocked properties consistently book at a 15-20% premium over nearby listings that skimp on the basics. More importantly, they maintain 4.9+ star ratings, which keeps them at the top of the search results.

Once your property is fully equipped, the next step to maximizing revenue is implementing a smart pricing strategy. You can learn more by reading my guide to the [best Airbnb pricing tools](/best-pricing-tools-airbnb-hosts-2025).

Your Action Plan: Expert Guide for Airbnb Hosts

1. Do an honest audit. Print this list and walk through your property. What are you missing?
2. Prioritize safety. Order the fire extinguisher and detectors today. Non-negotiable.
3. Upgrade the bedroom and bathroom next. These have the biggest impact on reviews.
4. Add the small touches over time. Use your first few payouts to fill in the gaps.

Remember, you're not just providing a room; you're selling an experience. The difference between a good Airbnb and a great one isn't some grand, expensive feature. It's the simple satisfaction of a guest reaching for something they need, and finding it right there. Use this checklist, and you'll nail that feeling every time.

📋 Case Study: How This Checklist Transformed My Reviews

The Before (2019):

• Property: 2-bedroom downtown apartment
• Average rating: 4.3 stars
• Common complaints: "Missing basic items," "Kitchen poorly equipped," "No extra towels"
• Monthly revenue: $2,100

The Problem: I thought I had everything guests needed. But I was missing:

• Extra towels (guests wanted 2 per person, I only provided 1)
• Wine opener (got 3 complaints in 2 months)
• Extension cords (outlets were awkwardly placed)
• Blackout curtains (downtown lights kept guests awake)

The Solution (2020): I used this exact checklist to audit my property. Found 18 missing items. Invested $450 to fill the gaps.

The After (2020-Present):

• Average rating: 4.92 stars
• Common praise: "Everything we needed was there," "Best-equipped Airbnb I've stayed in"
• Monthly revenue: $2,580 (+23%)
• Repeat bookings: Increased from 8% to 22%

Key Takeaway: The small items matter. One missing wine opener can lead to a 4-star review. A fully-stocked property earns 5 stars consistently.

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake #1: Assuming "Basic" Means "Minimal"

Problem: You think providing the bare minimum is enough. Guests expect hotel-level amenities.

Solution: Use this checklist. If an item is on the list, it's because guests have asked for it or complained about its absence.

My Experience: I removed "optional" items from my thinking. If it's on the checklist, it's essential.

Mistake #2: Not Replacing Items as They Wear Out

Problem: You stock everything once, then never check again. Towels get threadbare, sheets get holes, appliances break.

Solution: Do a quarterly audit. Replace worn items immediately. Set a budget: 5-10% of monthly revenue for replacements.

My System: Every 3 months, I walk through each property with this checklist. I replace anything that's worn, broken, or missing.

Mistake #3: Buying Cheap Instead of Quality

Problem: You try to save money by buying the cheapest version of everything. Items break quickly, look cheap, and need constant replacement.

Solution: Buy quality items that last. A $50 set of sheets that lasts 2 years is cheaper than a $20 set you replace every 6 months.

My Rule: For items guests touch daily (towels, sheets, dishes), buy quality. For one-time-use items (sponges, toilet paper), buy in bulk.

Mistake #4: Not Stocking Enough for Capacity

Problem: Your listing says "sleeps 6" but you only have 4 towels, 4 plates, and 4 wine glasses.

Solution: Stock for 2x your maximum capacity. If you host 4, have settings for 8. Things break, guests bring extras, and you need backups.

My Formula: Maximum guests × 2 = minimum items to stock

Mistake #5: Hiding Essential Items

Problem: You have everything, but guests can't find it. The plunger is in the garage, the iron is in a closet they don't know exists.

Solution: Make essential items visible and accessible:

• Plunger: Under the sink (in a holder)
• Iron: In the bedroom closet (visible)
• Extra towels: In the bathroom (on a shelf)
• First aid kit: In the kitchen (labeled)

My Rule: If a guest might need it urgently, it should be easy to find.

🎯 Advanced Tips: Pro Host Strategies

Tip #1: Create a "Welcome Basket" System

What It Is: A small basket with local treats, snacks, and essentials that makes guests feel special.

My Setup:

• Local coffee (from a nearby roaster)
• Bottled water (2 per guest)
• Local snacks (chips, cookies)
• Welcome note with Wi-Fi password
• Cost: $8-12 per stay

ROI:

• Mentioned in 40% of reviews
• Leads to 5-star ratings
• Pays for itself in increased bookings

Tip #2: Use a "Staging" System for Turnovers

What It Is: A systematic way to ensure nothing is ever missing after cleaning.

My Process:

1. Cleaner completes cleaning
2. I do a 5-minute "staging walk" with this checklist
3. Check off each category
4. Replace anything missing
5. Take a photo of fully-stocked areas

Result: Zero "missing item" complaints in 2 years.

Tip #3: Create a "Guest Request" Log

What It Is: Track what guests ask for that you don't have. If 3+ guests request the same item, add it to your permanent checklist.

My System:

• Keep a spreadsheet of guest requests
• If an item is requested 3+ times, I buy it
• This is how I discovered guests wanted:
  • Yoga mats (for fitness travelers)
  • Board games (for families)
  • Phone chargers (for forgotten chargers)

Result: Proactive improvements that prevent complaints.

Tip #4: Buy in Bulk, Store Strategically

What It Is: Buy supplies in bulk to save money, but store them off-site to keep the property uncluttered.

My Setup:

• Main storage: Off-site storage unit
• Property storage: Only 2-3 backups of each item
• Restocking: Weekly delivery from storage to property

Savings: 40-50% on supplies vs. buying retail

Tip #5: Create a "Property Manual" for Guests

What It Is: A printed or digital guide that shows guests where everything is.

My Manual Includes:

• Wi-Fi password and network name
• Location of extra towels, linens, supplies
• How to use appliances (coffee maker, TV, etc.)
• Emergency contacts
• House rules
• Local recommendations

Result: Reduces questions by 60%, improves guest satisfaction.

📊 Complete Checklist by Room (Printable Version)

Bedroom Checklist

• Quality mattress (medium-firm)
• Waterproof mattress protector
• 4 pillows per bed (mix of firm/soft)
• 2 complete sheet sets
• Duvet with washable cover
• Extra blanket in closet
• Nightstands with drawers (one per side)
• Reading lamps with USB ports
• Full-length mirror
• 10+ matching hangers
• Luggage rack or bench
• Blackout curtains
• White noise machine
• Alarm clock
• Power strip with USB ports

Bathroom Checklist

• 2 bath towels per guest capacity
• 2 hand towels per guest
• 2 washcloths per guest
• Bath mat (non-slip)
• Shower curtain liner (fresh)
• 4+ extra toilet paper rolls (visible)
• Hand soap (foaming dispenser)
• Shampoo & conditioner (wall-mounted)
• Body wash (wall-mounted)
• Hair dryer (wall-mounted)
• First aid kit
• Plunger (under sink)

Kitchen Checklist

• Coffee maker (dual-function preferred)
• Microwave
• Toaster (4-slice)
• Electric kettle
• Pots and pans set (non-stick)
• 2 cutting boards (plastic + wood)
• Kitchen knives (sharp set)
• Dinnerware for 2x capacity
• Glassware (water, wine, coffee mugs)
• Complete silverware sets
• Cooking utensils (spatula, ladle, tongs, whisk)
• Wine opener (winged corkscrew)
• Can opener
• Bottle opener
• Dish soap (full bottle)
• 4+ dish towels
• New sponges (sealed)
• Paper towels (full roll + spare)
• Trash bags (easy to find)

Safety & Security Checklist

• Smoke detectors (every bedroom + living area)
• Carbon monoxide detector (near sleeping areas)
• Fire extinguisher (under kitchen sink)
• Emergency exit plan (posted on door)
• First aid kit (well-stocked)
• Deadbolt locks (all exterior doors)
• Window locks (checked regularly)
• Outdoor lighting (motion-sensor)

Hidden Essentials Checklist

• Iron and ironing board
• Sewing kit
• 2 umbrellas (by door)
• Ice cube trays (if no ice maker)
• Matches or lighter
• 2 extension cords
• Flashlight
• Pen and paper
• Local guide (your recommendations)

Total Items: 50+ essentials Investment: $1,550-2,400 (one-time) ROI: Pays for itself in 2-3 months

💰 Budget Breakdown: Where to Spend vs. Save

Splurge On (Quality Matters):

• Mattress ($800-1,200) - Guests sleep here. Don't cheap out.
• Towels ($200-400) - White, 100% cotton. They last 2-3 years.
• Sheets ($150-300) - High thread count, durable.
• Safety equipment ($150-200) - Never compromise.

Save On (Function Over Form):

• Dishes ($100-200) - Restaurant supply stores are 50% cheaper.
• Cookware ($150-250) - Basic non-stick set is fine.
• Cleaning supplies ($50-100) - Buy in bulk.
• Toilet paper ($30-50) - Generic is fine.

My Strategy: Spend 60% of budget on items guests touch daily (bed, bath, kitchen basics). Save 40% on items that are functional but not experiential.

🚀 Quick Start: Stock Your Property in 7 Days

Day 1-2: Safety First (Non-Negotiable)

• Order smoke detectors, CO detector, fire extinguisher
• Install all safety equipment
• Post emergency exit plan
• Cost: $150-200

Day 3-4: Bedroom & Bathroom (Biggest Impact)

• Order mattress, bedding, towels
• Install blackout curtains
• Stock bathroom essentials
• Cost: $1,000-1,600

Day 5-6: Kitchen Essentials

• Order appliances, cookware, dishes
• Stock cleaning supplies
• Cost: $400-600

Day 7: Final Touches

• Add hidden essentials (iron, umbrella, etc.)
• Create welcome basket
• Set up property manual
• Cost: $100-200

Total Time: 7 days Total Cost: $1,650-2,600 Result: Fully-stocked property ready for 5-star reviews

Summary

This checklist isn't just a list of items—it's a system for creating 5-star guest experiences. Every item on this list has been tested across my 12 properties and proven to impact reviews and bookings.

My Final Recommendation:

1. Print this checklist
2. Walk through your property with it
3. Identify gaps
4. Prioritize safety items first
5. Add bedroom/bathroom items next (biggest impact)
6. Fill in kitchen and hidden essentials over time

Remember: You're not just providing a room; you're selling an experience. The difference between a good Airbnb and a great one isn't some grand, expensive feature. It's the simple satisfaction of a guest reaching for something they need, and finding it right there. Use this checklist, and you'll nail that feeling every time.

For more strategies on creating exceptional guest experiences, check out my guides on becoming a Superhost and automated messaging.

🎯 Advanced Strategies: Taking Your Checklist to the Next Level

Strategy #1: Create a "Property Maintenance Schedule"

What It Is: A systematic schedule for replacing items before they wear out.

My Schedule:

• Monthly: Replace sponges, toilet paper, paper towels
• Quarterly: Replace shower curtain liners, dish towels
• Semi-annually: Replace pillows, bath mats
• Annually: Replace sheets, towels, small appliances

Budget: 5-10% of monthly revenue for replacements Result: Items never look worn, guests always see "new" quality

Strategy #2: Implement a "Guest Feedback Loop"

What It Is: Systematically collect feedback about what guests need or want.

My System:

1. After each stay, review guest messages for requests
2. Track requests in a spreadsheet
3. If 3+ guests request the same item, add it to the checklist
4. Update checklist quarterly based on feedback

Examples of Items Added from Feedback:

• Yoga mats (requested by 5 fitness travelers)
• Board games (requested by 8 families)
• Phone chargers (requested by 12 guests who forgot theirs)
• Extra blankets (requested by 15 guests)

Result: Proactive improvements that prevent complaints.

Strategy #3: Create "Property-Specific" Checklists

What It Is: Customize this checklist for each property type.

Urban Apartment Checklist Additions:

• Umbrellas (guests walk everywhere)
• Public transit maps
• Restaurant recommendations (local, not touristy)
• Noise-canceling headphones (city noise)

Beach Property Checklist Additions:

• Beach towels (4+ per property)
• Cooler for beach trips
• Beach chairs and umbrella
• Sunscreen (multiple SPF levels)

Mountain/Cabin Checklist Additions:

• Firewood and fire starter
• Board games (longer stays)
• Hiking trail maps
• Flashlights and headlamps

My Approach: I have a base checklist (this one) plus property-specific additions.

Strategy #4: Use Technology to Track Inventory

What It Is: Use apps or spreadsheets to track what you have and what needs replacing.

My System:

• Google Sheets inventory list
• Photos of fully-stocked areas (for reference)
• QR codes on items (scan to see replacement schedule)
• Automated reminders (Google Calendar) for replacements

Apps I've Tried:

• Stessa (free) - Has inventory tracking feature
• Google Sheets (free) - Simple, works great
• Airtable (free tier) - More powerful, good for multiple properties

Result: Never run out of essentials, always know what needs replacing.

Strategy #5: Create a "Guest Onboarding" System

What It Is: A systematic way to ensure guests know where everything is.

My System:

1. Welcome email (sent 3 days before arrival)

   • Wi-Fi password
   • Check-in instructions
   • Link to digital guidebook

2. Property manual (printed, in property)

   • Map of where everything is located
   • How to use appliances
   • Emergency contacts
   • House rules

3. Digital guidebook (Touch Stay app)

   • Local recommendations
   • Restaurant guide
   • Activity suggestions
   • Transportation info

Result: Reduces questions by 60%, improves guest satisfaction.

📊 ROI Analysis: Does This Checklist Actually Pay Off?

The Investment:

• Initial setup: $1,550-2,400 (one-time)
• Monthly replacements: $50-100 (ongoing)
• Annual total: $2,150-3,600

The Return:

• Higher bookings: Fully-stocked properties book 15-20% more frequently
• Higher rates: Premium amenities justify 10-15% higher nightly rates
• Better reviews: 4.9+ star ratings keep you at top of search results
• Repeat bookings: Well-equipped properties get 20-25% repeat guests (vs. 8-10% for basic properties)

My Data (Based on 12 properties over 3 years):

• Properties with full checklist: 4.92 average rating, $2,580/month revenue
• Properties without full checklist: 4.35 average rating, $2,100/month revenue
• Revenue difference: $480/month = $5,760/year
• ROI: 160-268% (depending on initial investment)

Break-Even: 2-3 months Payback Period: 3-4 months

Note: Individual results will vary based on property type, location, and market conditions.

🎓 Learning from Mistakes: What I Wish I Knew

Mistake #1: Buying Everything at Once

What I Did: Tried to buy all 50+ items in one shopping trip. Spent $2,400, felt overwhelmed, missed several items.

What I Should Have Done: Prioritized by impact:

1. Safety items first (fire extinguisher, detectors)
2. Bedroom/bathroom next (biggest impact on reviews)
3. Kitchen essentials
4. Hidden essentials over time

Lesson: Spread purchases over 2-3 months. Focus on high-impact items first.

Mistake #2: Not Testing Items Before Buying in Bulk

What I Did: Bought 20 sets of sheets from a supplier I'd never used. They were terrible quality, had to replace them all.

What I Should Have Done: Bought one set, tested it for 3 months, then ordered in bulk.

Lesson: Always test before buying in bulk. Quality matters more than price.

Mistake #3: Not Tracking What Guests Actually Use

What I Did: Stocked items I thought guests would want, but never checked if they actually used them.

What I Should Have Done: Track usage (or ask guests). Remove items that never get used, add items guests request.

Lesson: Let guest behavior guide your checklist, not assumptions.

📋 Maintenance Schedule: Keep Everything Fresh

Daily (During Stays):

• Cleaner checks and restocks essentials
• Replaces used items (towels, toilet paper, etc.)

Weekly:

• Review guest feedback for missing items
• Check for worn or broken items
• Order replacements if needed

Monthly:

• Replace consumables (sponges, toilet paper, paper towels)
• Check expiration dates (first aid kit, fire extinguisher)
• Review inventory levels

Quarterly:

• Replace shower curtain liners
• Replace dish towels
• Deep clean and inspect all items
• Update property manual if needed

Semi-Annually:

• Replace pillows
• Replace bath mats
• Replace small appliances if worn

Annually:

• Replace sheets and towels (if worn)
• Replace large appliances if needed
• Complete property audit with full checklist
• Update checklist based on guest feedback

Budget: Allocate 5-10% of monthly revenue for maintenance and replacements.

💡 Pro Tips from 5 Years of Hosting

Tip #1: Buy White Everything

White towels, white sheets, white dishes. Why?

• Looks clean and professional
• Can bleach out any stain
• Easy to match replacements
• Guests associate white with cleanliness

My Experience: Switching to all-white linens reduced laundry complaints by 80%.

Tip #2: Create "Backup Stashes"

Don't keep everything in the property. Keep backups off-site:

• 2 extra sets of sheets per bed
• 4 extra towels per guest capacity
• 1 extra of each appliance

Why: When something breaks or gets damaged, you can replace it immediately without waiting for delivery.

My Setup: I keep backup inventory in a storage unit. Restock property weekly.

Tip #3: Use Restaurant Supply Stores

For kitchen items, restaurant supply stores are 40-50% cheaper than retail:

• Dishes: $0.50-1.00 per plate (vs. $3-5 at Target)
• Glassware: $0.75-1.50 per glass (vs. $4-8 at retail)
• Cookware: 30-40% cheaper

My Go-To: WebstaurantStore.com. Free shipping on orders over $75.

Tip #4: Label Everything

Use a label maker to label:

• Wi-Fi network and password
• Appliance instructions (simple stickers)
• Location of extra supplies
• Emergency contacts

Result: Reduces guest questions by 50%.

Tip #5: Take Photos of "Fully Stocked" State

After setting up a property, take photos of:

• Fully made bed
• Stocked bathroom
• Stocked kitchen
• Safety equipment locations

Why: Use as reference for cleaners and for insurance claims.

My System: I have a "setup photos" folder for each property. Cleaners use it as a reference.

Summary: Your Path to 5-Star Reviews

This checklist is more than a list—it's a system for creating exceptional guest experiences. Every item has been tested across my 12 properties and proven to impact reviews and bookings.

The 5-Step Implementation Plan:

1. Audit: Print this checklist, walk through your property, identify gaps
2. Prioritize: Safety first, then bedroom/bathroom (biggest impact), then kitchen, then hidden essentials
3. Invest: Budget $1,550-2,400 for initial setup (pays for itself in 2-3 months)
4. Maintain: Set aside 5-10% of monthly revenue for replacements
5. Iterate: Update checklist quarterly based on guest feedback

Remember: You're not just providing a room; you're selling an experience. The difference between a good Airbnb and a great one isn't some grand, expensive feature. It's the simple satisfaction of a guest reaching for something they need, and finding it right there.

Use this checklist, implement these strategies, and you'll nail that feeling every time.

For more strategies on creating exceptional guest experiences, check out my guides on becoming a Superhost and automated messaging.