The Short-Term Rental Turnover and Cleaning Checklist

Before you start

• Check the calendar for same-day arrivals and the exact check-out and check-in times.
• Walk through first and photograph anything damaged, missing or unusually dirty. Message the host straight away if something needs a decision.
• Start laundry first, since it takes the longest.
• Open windows and doors for air while you work.

Room by room

Bedrooms

• Strip and replace all bed linens, including pillow protectors if used.
• Check under beds, inside drawers and in wardrobes for left items.
• Dust surfaces, wipe handles and light switches, vacuum or mop.
• Make the bed the same way every time.

Bathrooms

• Disinfect toilet, shower, tub, sink and taps.
• Clean mirrors and wipe the floor last.
• Replace towels and bath mats.
• Restock toilet paper, soap and any amenities you provide.

Kitchen

• Empty and wipe the fridge, freezer, microwave and oven as needed.
• Run or unload the dishwasher and put everything away.
• Wipe counters, hob and sink. Check the bin and replace the bag.
• Restock basics such as dish soap, sponges, and coffee or tea if you offer them.

Living areas and outdoors

• Vacuum sofas and floors, and wipe tables and remote controls.
• Check balconies, patios and barbecues, and empty ashtrays.
• Check that doors and windows lock.

Final walkthrough

1. Check that every light, appliance and the heating or cooling works.
2. Confirm the Wi-Fi works and the access method (lockbox, keypad, keys) is ready.
3. Place the welcome note, guidebook and spare keys where guests will find them.
4. Photograph the finished rooms so you have a record of how you left them.
5. Take out the rubbish and lock up.

Routines that keep turnovers fast

• Keep at least two full sets of linens per bed, so you can make the beds while the used set is being washed.
• Store spare supplies in one labelled place at the property.
• Use preparation time on your calendar, so there is always a window for cleaning.
• Write down any recurring problems and fix the cause, not just the symptom.

In Staynora you can create housekeeping tasks for each property and keep them next to your bookings. Automatic assignment to a cleaner when a guest checks out is rolling out and is not live yet, so for now you create and assign tasks by hand.