Spring Refresh: A Guide to Spring Cleaning Your Airbnb Listing

As the seasons change and travelers start planning their spring getaways, it’s the perfect time to give your Airbnb listing a refresh. 

A deep clean and thoughtful updates can enhance your guests’ experience, improve your reviews, and keep your rental in top shape for the busy months ahead.

This blog post will walk you through a spring cleaning checklist to ensure your Airbnb feels fresh, inviting, and ready to welcome guests.

Thorough cleaning in progress: Every corner of the Airbnb is meticulously refreshed and ready for guests.

Step 1: Deep Clean Every Space

While regular cleanings between guests keep things tidy, a seasonal deep clean ensures no detail is overlooked.

🛋️ Living Areas & Bedrooms:

• Wash all curtains and wipe down blinds

• Vacuum and deep clean carpets or rugs

• Dust all surfaces, including baseboards, ceiling fans, and light fixtures – and don’t forget the top of cabinets and door framesRefresh bedding with a deep wash or replace old linens

Pro Tip: If you really want to take things up a notch, you can change out the bedding to reflect the season. For example, for spring you can embrace the fresh and airy feel by switching to lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen in soft pastel hues or floral prints. Consider bedding in colors like sage green, blush pink, or sky blue to bring in a refreshing seasonal touch. You can also add a lightweight quilt or coverlet instead of a heavy duvet and include decorative pillows with botanical or nature-inspired designs to enhance the springtime aesthetic.

Cozy spring vibes: a neatly made bed with airy blankets, a thick, knitted throw, and earthy-toned pillows, complemented by a rustic wooden headboard and a bouquet of wildflowers

• Rotate and flip mattresses and consider adding mattress protectors

Pro Tip: To really refresh your mattress, you can make a homemade mattress cleaning powder that can easily refresh the space! Here’s how:

1. Add  1 cup of baking soda and 4-5 drops of essential oil to a jar. You can’t go wrong with a very light lavender essential oil!

2. Apply the baking soda cleaning powder to your mattress by sprinkling, shaking, or by using a fine mesh sieve.

3. Next let it sit for at least one hour. The baking soda and essential oils need time to deep clean your mattress, so let the powder sit undisturbed for at least one hour.

4. Lastly, vacuum it up with the upholstery attachment. After you’ve given the cleaning powder enough time to do its job, grab your vacuum cleaner and the upholstery attachment (if it has one.) Use your vacuum to remove the baking soda mixture from your mattress, using slow passes to ensure you lift out as much of the baking soda, dust mites, and dead skin as possible. 

   
   

🍽️Kitchen:

Modern kitchen set for entertaining, featuring sleek appliances, granite countertops, and a welcoming open layout.

• Clean and organize cabinets, tossing expired food items

• Descale coffee makers and clean the inside of appliances

• Replace old sponges, dish towels, and cutting boards

• Scrub backsplash, countertops, and cabinet handles

  
  

Pro Tip: Don’t forget one of the most overlooked spots in a kitchen – the utensil drawer and holder. Over time, crumbs, dust, and even small food particles can accumulate, making it less than sanitary.

1.  Empty it completely and wipe it down with a disinfectant spray or warm soapy water.

2. Wash the utensil holder in the dishwasher (if dishwasher-safe) or scrub it by hand.

3. Check for any worn-out or mismatched utensils—replace as needed to keep a polished look.

4. Line the drawer with a fresh, easy-to-clean liner to keep it tidy longer.

   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

🚽 Bathroom:

Organized and cozy: A well-stocked bed and bath shelf with neatly arranged pillows, towels, and storage boxes for a touch of home comfort.

• Deep clean grout and reseal if necessary

• Replace any worn-out towels or bath mats

  • Looking for high-quality, cozy options? Check out our curated shopping list for our top picks.

• Stock up on toiletries and check for expired items

• Ensure the exhaust fan is clean and working properly

☀️Outdoor Spaces:

• Power wash decks, patios, and outdoor furniture

• Refresh any outdoor cushions or décor

  
  

Pro Tip: Instead of buying new pillows, opt for outdoor pillow covers! They’re easy to wash, simple to swap out, and instantly refresh your outdoor space. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly way to update your décor seasonally without the extra cost of new pillows.

• Sweep pathways and check for any safety hazards

• Clean and refill the fire pit if applicable

Step 2: Restock & Refresh Essentials

Your Airbnb’s charm often lies in the little details. Spring is a great time to assess what needs to be replaced or upgraded.

• Kitchen Refresh: Restock essential items like coffee, tea, spices, and cooking oil to keep your space guest-ready and well-equipped. Need some inspiration? Here are a few of our favorite Airbnb kitchen essentials! 

• Swap out seasonal décor for fresh spring touches

• Replace batteries in remotes, smoke detectors, and keyless entry locks; Check out our curated shopping list for must-have Airbnb home essentials!

• Check that all lightbulbs are working, including exterior lighting

  
  

• Ensure board games and books are in good condition.

  • Pro Tip: Before heading to Amazon, check out local thrift shops, yard sale pages, and Goodwill. Many people donate games in excellent condition, making it a budget-friendly way to grow your collection while keeping entertainment fresh for guests! 

Step 3: Evaluate Guest Experience Upgrades

A warm and inviting scene at Pocono Hawley House, featuring a thoughtful welcome basket, a guest book awaiting signatures, and a bottle of wine.

• Add a welcome basket with spring-themed snacks or local goodies for your Airbnb guests

• Update your Airbnb guidebook with new seasonal recommendations

• Consider upgrading small appliances like a toaster or coffee machine if they’re aging

  • Need recommendations? Check out our curated list of kitchen must-haves for Airbnb owners. 

• Replace any worn-out guest slippers, robes, or blankets

Step 4: Refresh Your Listing & Photos

Keep your Airbnb listing looking fresh and inviting by showcasing the charm of your space in every season.

• Update Your Photos: Take new, seasonal photos that highlight your space’s springtime appeal. With fresh blooms, outdoor spaces, and cozy details, these photos can make a big impact.

  
  

📸If you need professional Airbnb photography to truly capture your space, I offer tailored services to bring out the best of your property. Learn more about my Airbnb photography services here.

• Revise Your Description: Make sure your listing includes updated information on spring attractions and local events to draw in guests looking for seasonal getaways.

• Competitive Pricing & Availability: Double-check your pricing and availability to stay competitive with similar listings in the area.

Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up—it’s about creating a refreshed and inviting atmosphere for your guests. With a little effort, your Airbnb will feel revitalized, ensuring top-notch reviews and happy guests all season long.

Want more hosting tips? Explore our complete Airbnb resource library!

Plus, if you'd like a copy of our Airbnb cleaning checklist, click here to download it.