Airbnb Turnover Cleaning Checklist for NYC Hosts

Your Airbnb rating lives and dies by cleanliness. One "the bathroom wasn't clean" review can tank your listing. Here's the exact checklist our team uses for NYC Airbnb turnovers — it's the difference between 4 stars and 5 stars.

The Non-Negotiables

These get checked every single turnover, no exceptions:

• ✓Fresh sheets and pillowcases on all beds
• ✓Fresh towels (bath, hand, and face) folded or rolled
• ✓Toilet scrubbed inside and out
• ✓Shower/tub cleaned with no hair anywhere
• ✓Kitchen sink empty and clean
• ✓All dishes washed, dried, and put away
• ✓Counters wiped and cleared of previous guest items
• ✓Trash emptied in every room (including bathroom)
• ✓Floors vacuumed/mopped throughout
• ✓Mirrors streak-free

The Details That Get 5 Stars

Guests notice these things even if they can't articulate them:

• ✓Vacuum under the bed and couch cushions
• ✓Check for hair on bathroom floor and in drains
• ✓Wipe down remote controls and door handles
• ✓Check all light bulbs are working
• ✓Restock toilet paper (at least 2 rolls visible)
• ✓Wipe inside the microwave
• ✓Check behind the bathroom door (often missed)
• ✓Make sure the apartment smells fresh — not perfumed, just clean
• ✓Stage a few items: coffee setup, a small welcome note, neatly arranged pillows

Timing and Logistics

In NYC, most hosts have a tight window between checkout (11am) and check-in (3pm). That's 4 hours for cleaning, laundry, and restocking. For a 1-bedroom, budget 2–2.5 hours of cleaning time. For larger spaces, 3–4 hours. Have backup linens so you're not waiting on laundry.

If you're doing more than 2–3 turnovers a week, get a professional Airbnb cleaning service on a standing schedule. It's more reliable than trying to DIY while managing guest communications, key exchanges, and your actual life.