The role of vacation rental sites is increasing as people turn away from traditional hotel lodging for places that feel like a home away from home. With these platforms, it’s easier for guests to find unique and affordable accommodations that fit their needs and preferences.

For hosts, it is the perfect place to list their properties to reach their target audience at the right time. We have taken our time to evaluate the top ten vacation rental websites for both guests and hosts to suit their unique needs.

Top Ten Best Vacation Rentals Websites

Airbnb

We know you must have heard of this rental site at one point. With millions of listings in over 220 countries, Airbnb is easily the most popular vacation rental site. 

Airbnb has the most significant listings, translating to endless options for guests. And because people love options, it is one of the most visited rental sites. This further translates to a broader audience for hosts who has their houses listed on their platform. 

One of the benefits of using Airbnb is the wide range of properties available, from private rooms in shared apartments to entire houses and even unique accommodations like treehouses and houseboats.

However, there are some potential drawbacks to using Airbnb. Some hosts may not be as responsive or reliable as you’d like, and the quality of properties can vary widely. 

For hosts, there is no fee to list a property. However, hosts have to pay a service fee per booking. The service fee depends on the location of your property, and it can be up to 15%.

Vrbo

Vrbo, short for “Vacation Rentals by Owner,” is another popular vacation rental site focusing on whole-home rentals. One of the critical differences between Vrbo and Airbnb is that Vrbo is more geared towards private and upscale properties. Hence, you’ll likely find beach houses, cabins, and other luxurious accommodations on Vrbo.

For hosts, Vrbo does not allow listing for shared spaces. If you have a spare room that you would like to open up to travellers, consider Airbnb.

While Vrbo may offer higher-end properties, it can be more expensive than other vacation rental sites. Additionally, Vrbo’s cancellation policies can be strict, so it’s essential to read the fine print before booking.

Booking.com

While primarily known for hotels, Booking.com offers many vacation rentals, including apartments, villas, and resorts. One of the benefits of using Booking.com for vacation rentals is the ability to earn and redeem loyalty points, which can add up quickly if you’re a frequent traveller.

Another thing that sets Booking.com among the best vacation rental site is its inclusivity. An advanced filter search feature is available for travellers who want to book eco-friendly and sustainable locations.

However, Booking.com’s vacation rental offerings may be more limited than other sites, and some properties may not be as well-maintained as you’d like.

For intending hosts, you should know that Booking.com charges a 15% commission on each booking. 

TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor has been around since way back; it started as a review board for accommodations, businesses and attraction sites. Now it is one of the best vacation rental sites. 

One reason that TripAdvisor stands out among other sites is the billions of reviews on anything, which aids travellers in their decision-making process. Plus, TripAdvisor owns some of the top vacation rental sites for homeowners, like FlipKey, VacationHomeRentals, and HouseTrip.

A host who lists their properties on TripAdvisor also gets automatically listed on FlipKey. And you know what this can mean for a business, more visibility and reach. Also, there is only 3% per booking, which is reasonable. 

Homestay.com

Homestay is one of the best vacation rental sites that cater to low-budget travellers with its unique features and provisions. 

Homestay stands out from other vacation rental websites because it offers a home barter system, and a guest can exchange house with a host at no cost except for a reached agreement. Homes are also negotiated for other services like housekeeping or cleaning services.

The platform also offers a provision for listing private rooms to rent in houses occupied by the host. This is an excellent deal for travellers who are on a budget.

There is a 3% service fee per booking for hosts.

Plum Guide

Whilst the other rental websites focus on the number of listings, Plum guide is doing the opposite. Their selection process is rigorous to ensure high quality – Quality over quantity on the platform. 

Plum Guide offers only the very best properties with personalised service and local recommendations for things to do.

However, their focus on quality means their properties may be more expensive than other vacation rental sites. Additionally, their selection may be limited in some areas.

Plum Guide is an excellent option for travellers seeking a high-end vacation rental experience.

Expedia

Expedia is a popular online travel agency that offers a wide range of travel services, including vacation rentals. Their vacation rental site features over a million properties worldwide, including apartments, villas, and condos.

One of the main advantages of booking through Expedia is its extensive inventory. They offer many properties to fit any budget and travel style. Their user-friendly website makes searching and filtering for the perfect vacation rental easy.

It is free for hosts to list their properties on Expedia, but they have a commission rate between 10 – 30%. 

Atraveo 

Atraveo is a vacation rental website that offers over 300,000 properties in more than 30 countries worldwide. 

Atraveo offers a range of features to help hosts manage their properties. They can easily list their properties on the site and receive assistance with pricing and availability. Atraveo also offers multilingual customer service and support, making it easy for hosts to communicate with guests worldwide.

Atraveo offers a range of vacation rental options, from small apartments to large villas across popular tourist destinations.

However, Atraveo charges a service fee for each booking, which can vary depending on the property and location.

9flats 

9flats is a popular vacation rental site that focuses primarily on Europe. 9flats was launched in 2011 and have listings in over 104 countries.  It allows for listing private rooms in an apartment, just like Airbnb.

The platform charges a service fee of 15% for listings that don’t take instant bookings and 12% for listings that do.

OneFineStay

OneFineStay has established itself as a luxury vacation rental website. Backed by the Accor hotel chain, OneFineStay offers over 5,000 luxury home listings. 

For a host to have their property listed on the platform, they must send an application to the management. After which, it will go through a reviewing stage by the team to see if it is a good match. 

OneFineStay offers a full-service property management solution to properties listed on their platform. In addition to managing it, they will also promote the listing through their vast network of rental websites.

Host income is dependent on a revenue-sharing strategy. Several factors influence hosting income, including the property’s size, design, and location.

There are no booking fees for guests who use their platform.

Conclusion

The best vacation rental site for you depends on your needs and preferences. Airbnb is an excellent option for many properties and unique accommodations, while Vrbo offers more upscale and family-friendly options. Booking.com is a good choice for earning loyalty points and finding affordable rentals, while HomeAway allows you to book directly with homeowners for a more personalised experience.

No matter which vacation rental site you choose, read reviews carefully, communicate with hosts before booking, and compare prices to ensure you get the best deal possible. With so many options, you will find the perfect place to stay on your next trip or start your hosting journey.

Are you having a hard time finding Airbnb payment answers? The last thing you want is an unexpected charge on your credit card. In this Airbnb when do you pay article we will cover all questions from Airbnb payment methods to how much Airbnb charges.

For Airbnb guests, your payment is collected once the host accepts your reservation request or you book a reservation with instant booking.

For Airbnb hosts, your payment is held for 24 hours after your guest’s check-in. This is to confirm your listing is as expected or there isn’t any discrepancy with your guest.

Now let’s get to some of the most commonly asked questions out there.

TABLE OF CONTENT

1. How To Pay For Airbnb
2. How To Change Airbnb Method
3. What Are Airbnb Payment Options
4. When Does Airbnb Charge You
5. How Much Does Airbnb Charge Hosts
6. How Much Does Airbnb Charge Guests
7. How Much Does Airbnb Take
8. FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

How To Pay For Airbnb

The most common Airbnb payment options are Visa, Amex, Mastercard, JCB, Debit Cards, Google Pay, Apple Pay, and Paypal. Additionally, you can pay with gift cards and coupons.

Each country may accept different methods of payment which will be available on the Airbnb checkout page.

1. Pick Your Location, Booking Date, and Number of Guests

Choose the Airbnb you want to book, set the date and number of guests. Then click reserve.

2. Choose How To Pay For Your Airbnb Booking

Under choose how to pay, you will have two options. You can pay in full or pay 50% which is only available for bookings further than 14 days out.

Pay in full means you pay 100% of the total cost at the time of booking.

When you choose to pay part now, part later. You pay 50% upfront at the time of booking and the other 50% later. Airbnb will notify you when you’re final payment is due.

As for this example, under the pay part now, and part later, Airbnb notified me that my final payment of $546.94 is due Sep 1 when my booking is for Sept 16-18.

3. Choose Your Airbnb Payment Method

You will have the option of using an existing payment method or adding a new payment method.

The most popular Airbnb payment methods include Visa, Amex, Mastercard, JCB, Debit Cards, Google Pay, Apple Pay, and Paypal.

Under pay with, you will notice a drop-down menu. When you click on it, you will have the option of choosing an existing payment method or adding a new payment method.

4. Confirm All The Details Are Right and Pay

The final step is to check over the details. Make sure your dates are right, you like the cleaning/service fee, cancellation policy, price, etc.

At the bottom click on confirm and pay Airbnb. You are all set!

How To Change Airbnb Payment Method On A Computer

On your computer, under the Payments & Payouts section, you can add, change, set a default, or remove a previous Airbnb payment method. Let’s get started.

1. Click On Your Profile Picture And Scroll Down To Account

On your computer, visit Airbnb.com and click on your profile picture in the top right corner. A drop-down menu will appear. Scroll down until you find Account and click on it.

2. Under The Account Section, Click On Payments & Payouts

Under the Account section on the right side, you will see the Payments & payouts. Click on it.

3. Add, Set Default, Change, or Remove Your Airbnb Payment Method

Once you are in the Payments & Payouts section, you will be able to add, set a default, edit, or remove an Airbnb payment method.

Click the three dots on the right side to change, remove or set a new default Airbnb payment method.

At the bottom, click on the add payment method button to add a new payment method.

4. Using A Gift Card or Coupon As Your Airbnb Payment Method

The last two options you will have is to use an Airbnb gift card or apply a coupon as your Airbnb payment method. When you qualify for Airbnb Superhost status, Airbnb will send you a $100 USD gift certificate each year.

How To Change Payment Methods On Airbnb App

In the Airbnb app, under the payments & payouts section, you are able to add, remove, or change your Airbnb payment method. Furthermore, you can add a gift card or coupon.

1. Click On Your Profile At The Bottom Right

Open your Airbnb app and sign in. Click on your profile at the bottom right of your home screen.

2. Under Account Settings, Click On Payments and Payouts

Within the account settings, near the top, click on Payments and payouts.

3. Under Payments & Payouts, Click on Payment Methods or Credits & Coupons

Within Payments & Payouts, click on Payment methods to add or remove your payment options. If you have a gift card or coupon to use, the credits & coupons section will be where you add them.

4. Add or Edit Your Airbnb Payment Method

To add an Airbnb payment method on your phone, click on the add payment method at the bottom. You will notice the default method under one of the payment options.

Once you clicked on the add payment method, you will have the ability to add a credit card, debit card, or PayPal. These options will vary depending on where you live.

5. Setting A Default Or Delete An Existing Airbnb Payment Method

To delete or set a default payment method, click on the arrow on the right side. Once you have more than one payment option you can change the default payment.

On some phones, the arrow icon will be a three-dot icon.

What Are Airbnb Payment Options

Airbnb payment options are ways you can pay for your Airbnb booking. In most countries your Airbnb payment options include:

1. Credit Cards – Mastercard, Visa, Amex, Debit Credit Cards, JCB
2. Apple Pay
3. Google Pay
4. PayPal

Specific Country Airbnb Payment Options Include:

1. Brazil – Aura, Hipercard, Elo
2. China – Alipay, WeChat Pay
3. USA – Discover
4. India – PayU
5. Germany – Sofort Uberweisung
6. Italy – Postepay
7. Netherland – iDEAL

For further information check out Airbnb payments.

When Does Airbnb Charge You

For Airbnb guests, your payment is collected once the host accepts your reservation request or you book a reservation with instant booking.

This charge can be in full payment or if you are more than 14 days out from your booking date you will have the option of choosing to pay 50% now and 50% later.

The final 50% payment will be determined by Airbnb and included in the checkout details and your trip details after you book.

For non Instant Bookings, you will be charged as soon as the host accepts the booking. If they deny your booking request you will not be charged.

How Much Does Airbnb Charge Hosts

Airbnb charges hosts a service fee of 3% of the booking subtotal. The subtotal is the nightly rate, cleaning fee, and extra guest fee added together.

How Much Does Airbnb Charge Guests

Airbnb charges guests a service fee on average of 14% of the booking subtotal.

For more information check out Airbnb fee breakdown.

How Much Does Airbnb Take

Airbnb takes a total of 17-20% service fee. This includes a fee from both hosts and guests.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

• How To Split Payment on Airbnb?
• Do You Have To Pay Upfront for Airbnb?
• How To Pay For Airbnb Without A Credit Card?
• How Long Do Airbnb Refunds Take?
• Does Airbnb Accept Afterpay?
• Can You Use Debit Cards For Airbnb?
• Does Airbnb Accept PayPal?

How To Split Payment on Airbnb

You are not able to split payments on Airbnb with multiple guests. As of 2018, Airbnb no longer lets you split or share a payment between guests or multiple credit cards.

It was offered until 2018 and then discontinued. The reason Airbnb split payments was canceled is due to the hosting community.

Airbnb guests would book an Airbnb and split the payment among many other guests. When one guest didn’t pay on time then the booking would be canceled.

This blocked off the host calendar preventing them from receiving other bookings which made the hosting community upset and put pressure on Airbnb to ultimately cancel the program in 2018.

Do You Have To Pay Upfront For Airbnb

You don’t have to pay the full Airbnb payment upfront. If you book your Airbnb 14 days or more in advance, you can choose to pay 50% upfront at the time of booking and the other 50% closer to your check-in date.

Do You Need A Credit Card For Airbnb

You are not able to pay for Airbnb without a credit card on the app or website. This is due to security and insurance reasons. However, if you do have cash, you are able to purchase a prepaid credit card and use that for your Airbnb bookings.

How Long Do Airbnb Refunds Take

Airbnb refunds take between 5-10 business days for the full refund. On average you will receive your full Airbnb refund within 7 days.

For more information check out Airbnb refund article.

Does Airbnb Accept Afterpay

As of 2022, Airbnb does not accept Afterpay as a payment method

Can You Use Debit Cards For Airbnb

You can use debit cards as a payment method for booking an Airbnb.

Does Airbnb Accept PayPal

Airbnb accepts PayPal as a payment method if you are a guest and as a payout method if you are a host.

Check Out These Other Articles On Airbnbuniverse.com

What Is The Airbnb Resolution Center?

How To Change Your Airbnb Password

Top 3 Airbnb Forums

Final Thoughts

The purpose of this article is to inform you about Airbnb payments. Nobody likes to be surprised by an unexpected credit card charge that puts them over for the month.

If you were ever wondering about payment questions, now you have the answers.

17 Airbnb Cleaning Products You Must Have

Whether you have a separate property or rent out part of your house as an Airbnb listing, these Airbnb cleaning products are essential for saving you time which in return is profit. Over the past 2 years of hosting we have found ways to speed up check-in/check-out cleaning. It all starts with the products you use.

With our Airbnb cleaning products we include all-purpose cleaner, magic eraser, squeegee, 20/80 vinegar to water in a spray bottle, a quality vacuum, Swiffer mop, stain remover, old toothbrush, microfiber cloths, duster, and latex cleaning gloves.

One of our favorite tricks is to carry all our cleaning products in a milk crate. The list of what we use is below and fits perfectly into a crate.

Our Top Recommended Airbnb Cleaning Products:

1. CLR Bath & Kitchen Cleaner

CLR is a powerful foam spray that removes calcium, scale, and discoloration on many appliances, countertops, bathtubs, toilets, sinks, tile, fiberglass, glass and more. We use CLR bath & kitchen in our Airbnb showers and bathtubs.

Instructions: Generously spray CLR on all discolored surfaces and wait the recommended 15 minutes. For showers use an OXO good grips all-purpose scrub brush to scrub between the cracks. Wipe all other surfaces with a microfiber cloth.

We found CLR has a strong scent, which could affect anyone with asthma. Be sure to wear a facemask while cleaning.

2. Mr. Clean Duet Natural Latex Non-Slip Grip Gloves

For us, these gloves are the thickest and most durable. Under scolding hot water you can barely feel the heat which is great for bathroom cleaning. This set comes color-coded (yellow and purple). We use the yellow set for strictly bathroom cleaning and the purple set for general cleaning. We have found the natural latex to hold up in any cleaning situation and against the harshes chemicals.

3. OXO Good Grips Under Appliance Microfiber Duster

A microfiber duster works better than an old school feather duster. With microfibers, you pick up dust compared to a feathered duster where one is simply moving dust from one place to another

We found a microfiber version works better in regards to dusting and trapping dirt. Mix it with a handle and you have the perfect formula for reaching tough spots.

4. Bar Keepers Friend Household Cleaner

For a bleach-free alternative use Bar Keeper on rust, baked-on food, mineral deposits, and other tough stains. Barkeeper has a scratch-resistant formula that helps preserve your furniture and appliances.

We use Bar Keeper as a powdered cleanser specifically to remove any scaling build-up in our Airbnb listings. It’s a great all-purpose cleaner, cleaning porcelain, stovetops, ceramic, copper, brass, fiberglass, Corian, chrome, and aluminum. On top of that, it buffs out the hard watermarks on stainless steel.

5. Magic Eraser – 4 Pack Originals

Magic Erasers are truly magical. They are an all-around tool used for every part of the house. The best uses we have found for a magic eraser are cleaning stainless steel appliances or porcelain sinks, shining up our faucets, scuff marks on walls, water stains on the shower glass, scrubbing grout, and cleaning soap scum.

6. Draino Max Gel Sink Cleaner

Draino is a chemical compound used to quickly dissolve hair, soap scum and gunk. We use it for our Airbnb sinks and shower drains. Remember to NOT use Draino in toilets.

For the majority of the clogged drains, all you have to do is pour the recommended amount of Draino and wait. Rinse with hot water and the clog should be gone. Even if your Airbnb never gets clogged drains, having a bottle of this stuff will eventually save you a costly plumbing bill in emergencies.

7. Vinegar For The Smell & Environmentally Friendly

A great environmentally-safe alternative to store-bought cleaners. There are two types of Vinegar you can clean with, first one has 5% acidic acid which you can find on fish and chips or salads.

Second is 10% acidic acid which can be found in most cleaning isles and we recommend using cleaning protection while handling it (gloves and glasses).

The most important feature of Vinegar is it gets rid of horrible odors and is great at cutting down greases. We use it to clean our floors, rinsing out our Keurig machines, getting rid of build-up in our dishwasher and more.

We mix equal parts distilled vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle for most of our Airbnb cleaning jobs.
Plus it is definitely a cheaper option from most cleaning products on the market.

8. O-Cedar Spin Mop All-in-One

With a mop that spins, it wrings out the excess water successfully. With a standard mop, you would normally have to lean down to wring it.

The O-Cedar mop has a foot pedal that spins the mop for you. This makes for fewer water streaks on your flooring and less chance of water damage.

9. Microfiber Cloths

Microfiber cloths cut Airbnb cleaning time by 20-30% because they are very absorbent with liquids and dust.

These clothes can absorb up to 8 times their weight, are reusable which also makes them an eco-friendly option. Buying them in bulk or on sale will keep them at a low cost.

The other benefits are non-linting, they don’t leave moisture or streaks behind, and they lift up dirt and bacteria with ease.

For our Airbnb cleaning, we use Microfiber Cloths on our windows, t.v screens, monitors, and practically any surface with heavier dust or dirt.

10. Castile Soap

Diluted vegetable oil-based and makes for a great natural organic cleaner. The soap itself leaves a nice squeaky clean feel and is a perfect replacement for anyone sensitive to smell.

We love it for the eco-friendly feature, which we use to wash dishes or as a handwash. It’s even safe to shower with and can be combined with other ingredients to tackle many Airbnb tasks.

Our favorite trick is to combine Castile Soap with essential oils for a nice smelling handwash that can be alternated frequently.

11. Spot Shot Stain Remover For Carpets

Extremely good at removing tough stains such as grease, red wine, and anything on fabric such as carpet.

We do use other products like Oxi-Clean, but Spot Shot worked great on fresh stains that need to be cleaned up right away. The design of the can makes it easy to apply.

12. Oxi-Clean Versatile Stain Remover

One of the best multi-use stain removing products on the market. It can be used for scrubbing dirty shower tiles, dissolving messes from your living room carpet, lifting stains off your mattress, and even getting stains out of your laundry. Once a year we do a full stain removing process with Oxi-Clean.

13. Scrub Daddy Scratch Free

We found when our dish rags got dirty, they would smell terrible and that’s horrible for our Airbnb’s. One of our friends suggested Scrub Daddy as an alternative.

We love the user-friendly handles and how durable it is. Under cold water, the material hardens and can break up tough surfaces. Under hot water, the sponge can do general cleaning.

The best part of the Scrub Daddy is with a thorough rinse and once dried, there is no smell!

14. OXO Good Grips Hideaway Compact Toilet Brush

A compact brush can easily be tucked behind the toilet for convenient storage. Every Airbnb cleaning will need a trustworthy toilet brush.

We love the open/close mechanism which hides the bristles and how it balances thinly behind the toilet.

15. Lysol Toilet Bowl Cleaner

The smell is what we love with this toilet bowl cleaner. It’s a medium-thick cleaner that smells good and gets rid of any toilet bowl build-up perfectly.

16. Squeegee For Showers & Tiles

Using a squeegee is a MUST for glass shower doors. We made that mistake in our first Airbnb and by the time we got a squeegee, it was too late. We couldn’t get the glass clear again.

Depending on your Airbnb, you can leave a sign for your guests reminding them to squeegee after every shower, but don’t expect it to get done. To reduce recycling, spray Windex on your mirrors and use the squeegee in place of paper towels. For pet hair, wet the tip of the squeegee and drag it on any furniture for easy removal.

17. Milk Crates To Carry All Airbnb Cleaning Products

Not only use milk crates to carry extra car supplies such as extra oil, oil filters, windshield washer fluid, etc. We also use milk crates to store all our Airbnb cleaning products.

We have found the sizing is easy enough to carry around and fit practically everything with a bit of organization.

Checkout Our Other Articles On Airbnbuniverse.com

Final Thoughts

Whether you use a few of our recommended Airbnb cleaning products or just a few, they will help any host cleaning faster and better than ever. The more organized and efficient you are the higher your profits will be. Enjoy and happy hosting

Airbnb Living Room Essentials – The Unlimited Guide

What are Airbnb living room essentials? When a guest stays with you, the majority of their waking downtime will be in the living room. Whether it’s watching t.v, reading, or anything else you want each guest to feel at home. This will result in an improved stay and a higher Airbnb review.

Your Airbnb living room size and layout will affect what you can include but the very basics are a couch, coffee or end table, lamp, t.v, and some sort of decorations.

Your Airbnb living room will likely be the first space your guests see when entering your listing. Because first impressions are extremely crucial you have to make sure everything counts. Let’s look into more detail on how you can improve your living room.

In this blog post, we will discuss our favorite tips to save space and items that you should place in your Airbnb living room. Enjoy and happy hosting!

What Are Your Airbnb Living Room Essentials?

A Place To Sit. Couch, Armchair, Or More

Have you ever not been able to sit down in a living room? We’d guess not. For us, when someone says put your feet up and relax, we think of sitting on a couch and watching t.v or reading a book.

Giving your Airbnb guests a comfortable place to sit and relax will help them feel at home and take away the day’s stresses.

For us, before we go ahead and buy a new couch, we sit on it as a guest would. We recommend going to a store and testing some couches then purchasing it off Craigslist or Facebook marketplace to save costs.

Taking that extra moment to test all the cushions, armrests, material, etc. Make sure you approve before letting your guests stay in your Airbnb listing.

If your Airbnb living room has limited space, then get creative with couches that turn into beds and chairs that take up less room. Our favorite couch is the Milliard tri-fold couch and sofa bed which easily turns into an extra comfortable mattress for that last-minute surprise guest.

Other ideas are saucer chairs, L-shaped couches, single couches, hanging chairs, etc.

Waterproof Slipcover For Damage Control

Since a guest won’t always treat your Airbnb listing as their own, we recommend placing a slipcover over all your couches to protect them. Each slipcover will protect your couch from stain damage which lengthens the lifespan and save you money in the end.

Fast Wifi For The Working Traveler

Generally, wifi is much faster than cellular data and perfect for data-intensive activities (Skype, Netflix, Youtube, Work). Many of your Airbnb guests will be coming from a different country and signing up for most cell phone plans will need a permanent residence.

With no permanent residence or quality cell phone plan your guests will rack up extras charges on their phone bill. Because of this many travelers prefer Airbnb listings with high-speed internet.

On average, a 3 Mbps connection is good for one standard-quality stream and 5 Mbps for a high-definition stream. This is according to Netflix.

In one of our Airbnb listings, we had a 10-year-old router that worked fine. We decided to upgrade with a newer model since technology improves. We chose the TP-Link AC1750 Smart WiFi Router. Let us tell you, we now have strong wifi throughout our listing and it even reaches across the street. The best part is we put the details in our Airbnb description and has increased bookings from business travelers.

Coffee Table or End Table For Spill Prevention

The fact is having a spot for your Airbnb guests to put down their drinks will prevent most spills. We place a coffee table in front of our couches and add coasters for hot surfaces such as coffee mugs. The coffee table can be big or small depending on the room you have. The point is to have a place for your guests to set drinks down. The coasters also eliminate condensation rings that add to your cleaning routine.

Furthermore, if you have the room, add end tables on either side of your couch. This brings additional storage options underneath and the whole room together.

Blinds, Curtains, Shutters That Block Out The Sun

You can choose blinds, curtains, shutters or any other available option. The most important part is having a set that blocks out the sun. Furthermore, some of your Airbnb guests will travel late, work late, or just enjoy sleeping in. Provide a blackout option for any late sleepers which will also give them complete privacy.

Lamp For Reading, Writing And More

Regular lighting isn’t adequate, especially at night. By positioning several lamps around your Airbnb living room you give your guests flexibility for any activities at hand. How many lamps?

A general rule of thumb to calculate how much lighting you need in a room: Room length X Room width x 1.5 = Amount of wattage to light a room

For our Airbnb living room, we normally place a floor lamp in the living room corner, a smaller end table lamp beside our couch, and a reading lamp if we have a stand-alone sofa.

Check Out These Other Articles On Airbnbuniverse.com

Airbnb Living Room Decorations

You want people to feel at home and having decorations is a good way to do that. Whether you desire paintings on the wall, plants in your Airbnb living room, or any other form of decorations, it’s guaranteed to bring character to the room.

When it comes to decorating any living space there are many options. At minimum in all our Airbnb listings, we place some sort of painting on the wall and small personal touch items on shelves.

The paintings are visually appealing compared to a bare wall and personal touches can be found at thrift stores for a low cost. Obviously, there are more options to decorate any Airbnb listing. For that, we wrote a full blog post on The Best Airbnb Decoration Ideas. Link to post attached.

What Are Additional Options For Airbnb Living Room Essentials?

Area Rug For Your Airbnb Living Room

We add an area rug to all our Airbnb living rooms. The main reason is that area rugs take most spill damage from guests, it is much cheaper to throw a rug out then get carpet and hardwood replaced.

Whether you have hardwood flooring or carpets, an area rug will make your listing inviting, add a focal point, and makes your Airbnb living room look bigger. Most importantly your guests will love a thick shaggy area rug under their feet while watching t.v.

We recommend staying away from white rugs since spills are more noticeable. Most importantly your guests will love a darker colored shaggy area rug under their feet while relaxing.

Wall Mounted Smart T.V.

Most Airbnb guests can access their Netflix account either through a smart t.v or from their laptops. Almost every Airbnb we have stayed in doesn’t include cable anymore. You can find hours of t.v. shows from any streaming sites which a smart t.v. includes. Remember, most hosts at the beginning forget to supply an HDMI cord for guests.

For us, we love to save our extra floor space by mounting our smart t.v. on a wall bracket with plenty of pivot points. This will create a modern feel and most wall brackets will be universal and adjust to all t.v. sizes. This way you can use the dead wall space higher up and are left with more storage below.

Extra Blankets To Keep You Warm

Whether it’s a movie night, having an early morning coffee, or just because you are cold, an extra blanket in your Airbnb will be appreciated. Hang your blankets over the back of the couch so your guests will notice them and the blanket will add a nice touch to the living room.

For Christmas, I bought this Bedsure Sherpa Fleece Blanket for my wife because of a friend’s recommendation and ended up buying a second one for myself. We now have one in all our Airbnb listings which our guests love. Even mentioned them in our reviews.

Throw Pillow To Brighten Up Any Airbnb Living Room

Having a few extra throw pillows on any piece of your furniture will immediately brighten up the room and make any seating area feel finished. The key is to pick an anchor color, which will highlight and bring value to your Airbnb living room. Place the throw pillows on either side of your couch and one in the middle.

Every Airbnb Living Room Needs Board Games

Not all your guests will use the board games you leave out. Everyone has their own preference but giving them the option of classics such as Monopoly, Risk, Scrabble, Operation, Sorry, and even Mouse Trap will be unique and original.

You can buy most of these board games from your local thrift stores, but be aware check to make sure they have all the pieces.

Mirrors For Getting Ready

Mirrors in your Airbnb will bring depth and make the living room look bigger. Whether you choose a small or large mirror, align your mirrors in a way they can reflex natural sunlight. For us, we love the vintage framed mirror which adds character to any Airbnb listing.

Bluetooth Speakers

While my wife and I were traveling around Bali, Indonesia, we met a couple who brought Bluetooth speakers with them. Throughout our tour buses and traveling they would play music off their phones via Bluetooth pairing. With music, it made the whole experience enjoyable and brought everyone together.

If you want your Airbnb guests to feel welcomed then allow them to play music. Write instructions on how to use the Bluetooth speakers but include a welcoming note such as

“Hi guys, we look forward to hosting your stay. To help you ease into our home we included a Bluetooth speaker to play your favorite songs. Enjoy and let us know if you need anything”

We use a low cost but highly reviewed Anker Bluetooth surround sound speaker with 66 ft range and 24-hour playtime. Many guests have mentioned having a Bluetooth speaker in our reviews.

Charging Station For All Airbnb Living Rooms

A charging station helps your guests manage all their device batteries at the same time in one location. Most of your guests will travel with at least a phone and some sort of tablet or laptop. Having a charging station is a small detail most Airbnb hosts neglect.

If you are looking for a quality built charging station then the USB charger with 4 USB + 3 AC Outlets allows any Airbnb guest to use 120V and USB charging together.

Binder Of Local Recommendation For Your Guests

There is nothing better than getting local recommendations. Those are normally where you find the best food for the lowest price or unique cultural experiences that are hidden gems.

For us, we take the time to go to our local restaurants and try their food. It allows us to give a personal recommendation for restaurants in our local binder.

If you look online, you can find the most popular tourist attractions and restaurants, but they are normally expensive. Anytime we have stayed in an Airbnb the hosts have suggested amazing restaurants and places to visit.

Keep a binder filled with your popular and unknown tourist attractions, plus takeout menus to your local restaurants.

Guest Book To Write In

For myself, I don’t normally read the guest book but my wife loves to. She tries to find other guests from our city and always writes something inside.

As your guests pile up, so will the memories of their travels. Place your guest book and a pen to write with. It adds a nice touch to any Airbnb listing.

Let guests write what they loved about your place, where they have traveled with tips or just memories for all of your other guests to read.

Airbnb Living Room Essentials FAQ

Should I Have A Smart T.v In My Airbnb Living Room?

You do not have to have a smart t.v. at all but some guests expect one. What we don’t recommend anymore is providing cable. Right now there is a transition for streaming platforms to pick up t.v channels. For example, PrimeVideo by Amazon has StackTv. This channel has numerous HGTV shows such as Property Brothers.

Furthermore, almost anyone can find something to watch on Netflix. A quality smart t.v. can be found on Craigslist very easily and a Netflix account at basic costs $8.99. Even an older grandma is able to work Netflix. Remember, leave your Airbnb guests an extra HDMI cable in case they want to stream a rare show off their laptop.

Final Thoughts

No matter what, give your guests the greatest chance to feel at home. Airbnb living room essentials should make any guest feel at home. Enjoy and happy hosting!

Top 8 Best Keurig For Airbnb – Ultimate Guide

For Airbnb listings with limited rooms, Keurig coffee machines are the perfect solution. They provide a variety of coffee flavors for a good price and any guest can use it.

Are you struggling to find the perfect Keurig coffee machine?

The truth is: there are many “styles” out there.

These are known as “models” and can be broken down to help you pick the perfect one.

Why Buy A Keurig Coffee Machine For Airbnb?

A Keurig coffee machine for Airbnb eliminates the need for space and with the many models the company offers, you can purchase a big or small machine that comes with endless brewing features.

Our favorite feature for a Keurig coffee machine is the ability to use your own coffee in a reusable K-cup or trying new K-cups that are sold in most grocery stores.

If Keurig coffee machines aren’t for you, then check out our Airbnb kitchen and bathroom essentials.

Our Top 8 Recommended Keurig Coffee Machines For Airbnb:

1. Keurig K-Compact Coffee Maker

The K-Compact Keurig Model is a space-saving masterpiece. If you have a small place with a limited counter room, this is your best option out of all the models. We found the K-Compact is very simplistic with only giving you 3 choice buttons. Perfect for guests or anyone who technology illiterate.

Pros:

• Compact and saves space
• 36 oz reservoir (2 large cups of coffee)
• Hot water on demand
• Brew time in less than 60 seconds
• Simplicity with only 3 buttons

Cons:

• This units water pump is louder than some models
• Only makes 2 large cups of coffee or 3 medium

2. Keurig K-Elite Coffee Maker

The K-Elite Keurig model is overall the best quality machine in our opinion. The material is solid and design is well planned. Additionally, this model has extended features such as an iced beverage brew, strong brew and, a programmable setting. Our favorite feature is the removable bottom mesh that fits travel mug brews. If you want a model that holds up over time and gives you less to worry about with your guests, this model is the choice.

Pros:

• Brews 5 sizes: 4, 6, 10, and 12 oz cups
• 70 oz reservoir (4 large cups of coffee)
• Iced beverage and strong brew feature
• Programmable machine
• Hot water function
• Quiet brew
• Brew time less than 60 seconds
• Removable bottom mesh for large travel mugs
• Refill water reservoir every other day

Cons:

• The price is greater than other models

3. Keurig K575 Single Serve Coffee Maker

The K575 Keurig model has the most customizable settings with temperature and strength of brewing. It comes with 5 different brewing temperature settings, several nightlight colors and a strength control for coffee. If you are looking for a Keurig machine that looks pleasing to your guest then the K575 is perfect.

Pros:

• 80oz reservoir
• Brewing capacity of 10+ cups before refilling the water reservoir
• Simplifies morning routine
• Several different colors of nightlights to choose from
• Brews 5 K-cup sizes: 22, 26, or 30 oz
• Strength control to brew stronger coffee with K-cup pod sizes
• 5 temperature settings to brew at desired temperatures
• Hot water on demand
• Touch screen with programmable settings

Cons:

• Takes 3 minutes to heat up for the first cup of coffee
• Brews a little louder than older models
• Brews slower for the stronger brews

4. Keurig K200 Hot Brewing Coffee Maker

The K200 Keurig coffee machine brings the new revolution of models. With its slim design, touch screen compatibility and 9 different brews sized from 4 – 30oz the K200 is a combination of all past Keurig models. If you are looking for a slim design and great look for your guests then the K200 is perfect.

Pros:

• 40oz reservoir
• Touch screen compatible
• 4oz – 30oz coffee brews
• Can brew single K-cup or 4-cup of K-carafe packs
• The slim design and color selection
• Can choose the strength of the brew

Cons:

• Have to keep the water reservoir full at all times or it doesn’t brew
• Doesn’t shut off automatically

5. Keurig K155 Office Pro Coffee Maker

The K155 Office Pro Keurig model is meant for bigger or luxurious homes. It offers all the features anyone would want but comes with the price tag to resemble it. These features include a touchscreen with full color, adjustable brew temperatures, and programmable auto on/off settings. Additional features are a 90oz reservoir that is easily removable and a transportation feature that allows you to drain the machine easily. Altogether the K155 is great for luxurious taste or a larger place with multiple guests.

Pros:

• Touchscreen interface with adjustable brew temperatures and programmable settings
• 90oz reservoir
• 18 cups before refill
• Different brew sizes of 4, 6, 8, 10oz
• The machine drains easily for transport
• Brews mild to strong beverages

Cons:

• Size of the machine

6. Keurig K55 Hot Coffee Maker

The K50 Keurig model is the simplest machine available. You can expect a well built, highly-reviewed model that has 3 brew size buttons and indicator lights to tell you the brew steps. We normally use the K50 for hot breakfasts such as oatmeal and write instructions for all our guests.

Pros:

• Makes coffee, tea, and specialty beverages
• Coffee Sizes 6, 8, or 10oz sizes
• Brews in under 120 seconds
• Removable drip tray
• 48oz reservoir
• Step indicator lights and auto on/of features

Cons:

• Longer brew time

7. Keurig K-Select Coffee Maker

The K-Select Keurig model offers a 4 button lightweight coffee brewer. You will have a variety of color options to choose from and multiple brew sizes. The overall value is a simple concept for a good price that won’t break the bank if your guests break it.

Pros:

• 4 brew sizes: 6, 8, 10, and 12oz
• 50oz reservoir
• Button operational
• Water is always hot
• Add features for travel mugs

Cons:

• Simple features
• On occasion pods spill

8. Keurig Mini Coffee Maker

The Mini Keurig model is a single shot coffee maker. It doesn’t come with a reservoir and you add water for each cup of coffee you brew. The upside to this is the size, easy transport, and less mess. The mini comes with a detachable drip tray for travel mugs which is perfect for guests.

Pros:

• Doesn’t take up much room
• Water will always be fresh
• Costs less
• Doesn’t waste coffee
• Slim design

Cons:

• Noisy when brewing

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Our Top Recommendations For Keurig Accessories & Coffee

Keurig 27 K-Cup Caroussel KU5060

If you want to display your Keurig K-cups in a visually appealing fashion, use a carousel KU5060. We use this in most of our Airbnbs, it spins which saves space and gives you the ability to display a variety of K-cup options all at once.

K-Cup Storage Drawer

With some kitchens having limited vertical room, a K-cup storage drawer might work better. You have the ability to stack the Keurig machine on top and use below to display a variety of K-cups with the storage drawer.

Keurig Coffee Lover Variety Box of K-Cups

Whenever we host guests, we love giving plenty of options for K-cups to choose from. This variety pack is our go-to order and stocked up with multiple boxes during black Friday sales.  

20 popular varieties including Green Mountain Coffee Breakfast Blend, The Original Donut Shop Regular, Newman’s Own Organic Special Blend, Caribou Coffee Caribou Blend, Tully’s Coffee Italian Roast, and many more.

Keurig My K-Cup Universal Coffee Filter

The best part of Keurig is how adaptable they have become. Universal K-cup allows you to pack your own stored bought coffee into it and use a Keurig machine to brew it. Very convenient and for stronger coffee brewing lovers.

What Model Of Keurig Is The Best?

What Is The Difference Between Keurig Machines?

All K-cup models use the same brewing system and operate similarly. The main differences between Keurig coffee machines are with features such as reservoir capacity, brew sizes, programmable options, and K-cup options available.

What Model Is My Keurig?

The model of Keurig can be found using a custom serial number provided with each machine. The serial numbers themselves are located in different spots depending on what style of Keurig you have. Here’s how to find each serial number:

• The K-Classic has a serial number located behind the drip tray.
• The K-Compact, K-Select and the K-Elite have a serial number located behind the cold water tank.
• A serial number for our K-Mini series can be found on the bottom of the brewer. Take care when turning over your brewer, especially if you have already added water to it.
• Keurig 2.0 / Plus Series has a serial number on the exposed side panel of the brewer after you remove the water reservoir. It will be a 14-digit, alphanumeric serial number.
• The Keurig OfficePro serial number can be found on the back of the brewer.

Once you have found a serial number, head over to http://support.keurig.com where you can search up your model using the serial number.

Is There A Difference Between Keurig K50 and K55?

Keurig K55 is the upgraded version of K50. Both models are practically the same in almost all aspects. The main difference is the new K55 is 4.4 pounds heavier, is more energy-efficient, and has a new descaling feature.

What Is The Best Single Cup Coffee Maker To Buy?

For us, our choice is based on consistency, the lifespan of the coffee machine, cost, and overall quality. With all these questions into account, the Keurig K-Select is your best choice. With over 840 reviews on Amazon alone, you get a great quality coffee machine for a reasonable cost.

Do All Keurig’s Use The Same K-cups?

The older Keurig models take coffee pods from many different brands. The new Keurig 2.0 models use two coffee pod sizes. One for a single cup of coffee and another for a full pot of coffee.

Also, the Keurig 2.0 machines only allow RFID tagged coffee pods which stops any other brands from working on the machine.

How Many Different Keurigs Are There?

Keurig currently has over 55 different models and makes. Each year the company is adding similar machines with upgraded features and discontinuing older versions. The number keeps changing but the quality keeps improving.

Final Thoughts

In order for you to pick the proper Keurig coffee machine, you will need to look around and figure out what you want. From size to how many guests you will be catering to. These questions will guide you through the proper model choices and make you happy with your decision.

Airbnb Plus Cities – What Cities Have Airbnb Plus

Would you guys like to book hotels like boutiques through Airbnb? Or a higher chance to have that perfect vacation? Well, you now can. A host who makes it into the Plus program meets exceptional hospitality in the degree of a hotel.

Furthermore, Airbnb is consistently expanding its Plus program to new cities and countries. Here is an updated list of all current cities:

What Cities Have Airbnb Plus?

Check Out These Other Articles On Airbnbuniverse

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for an almost guaranteed hotel quality Airbnb to stay in then Airbnb plus is a great choice. As the program grows so will the cities with the plus program. Above is a list of everything available right now. Enjoy.

Top 3 Best Sheets For Airbnb in 2022

A set of quality bed sheets for Airbnb is very important to your listing beds. Not only do they protect your mattress and top layer but give your guests a great night’s rest. With choosing bed sheets you have to ask questions such as what fabric material do I want or what climate do you live in?

In this article, we will answer the most popular bedsheet questions. Enjoy and happy hosting!

How Many Bed Sheets Do I Need?

The sweet number is three-bed sheets per bed. One on the bed, one in the closet, and one that can be washing. 2-3 sheets at minimum. If you have kids who wet the bed regularly, increase this number to 4-5 bed sheets.

How Do You Get Wrinkles Out Of Bed Sheets?

Want the crispness that ironing gets you? Here’s a time-saving trick. To get wrinkles out of bed sheets, after you wash your bed sheet, dry them to about 95%, then immediately put them on your bed slightly damp. This allows your sheets to dry by bedtime and be wrinkle-free.

What Are The Best Bed Sheets For Airbnb?

What we always ask is: What bed sheets are the most comfortable? There are many choices and picking the right one can be difficult. Especially when you are picking for your Airbnb guests. We have tried many bed sheet sets over the years and here are our top recommendations:

1. 500-Thread-Count 100% Cotton Sheet Pure White Sheets Set, 4-Piece Long-staple Combed Cotton

2. Shilucheng Size 6-Piece Bed Sheets Set Microfiber 1800 Thread Count Percale | 16 Inch Deep Pockets

3. Mellanni Bed Sheet Set – Brushed Microfiber 1800 Bedding – Wrinkle, Fade, Stain Resistant – Hypoallergenic – 4 Piece

How Many Bed Sheets In A Washing Machine

When cleaning your bedsheets, don’t load the washing machine more than 70% at a time. This allows for a proper wash cycle and prevents excess weight on the motor and external parts. In a 6.5kg washing machine, you can wash up to 4-bed sheets at a time.

How Much Do Bed Sheets Weigh?

The average bed sheet weight ranges with quality. Low-quality bed sheets weigh less compared to high-quality bed sheets. Each reading is according to Amazon and with a study of more than 100-bed sheets.

• Twin – 1.1 – 1.9 pounds
• Full – 1.3 – 2.1 pounds
• Queen – 1.5 – 2.6 pounds
• King – 1.75 – 2.9 pounds

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How To Soften Bed Sheets? How To Soften Your Best Sheets For Airbnb?

Softening bed sheets for Airbnb can be tough. The myth is fabric softener works when in reality all it does is add a waxy layer that makes your bed sheets unbreathable for guests.

Furthermore, adding too much detergent will stiffen your bed sheets up. For us, to soften bed sheets we use half the recommended detergent and add fabric softener every 3 washes.

How do dryer balls work? Another trick of ours is to add a dryer ball to a load of wash which will bounce around fluffing your bed sheets up. This process will loosen the fabrics up.

How To Make A Triple Sheeted Bed?

We “Triple Sheet” all our Airbnb duvets. This way our beds has a nice finishing touch without compromising your duvet. Easier to clean and looks nice. Video instructions below.

Why Are Hotel Bed Sheets White?

White sheets have always been considered clean. For the reason, that hair and stains are more noticeable. Furthermore, hotels use white as a neutral-colored theme in most hotel rooms.

What Bed Sheets Do Hotels Use?

The most popular hotel brand in the U.S. is Standard Textile. They cover high-end hotels such as Sheraton, Marriott, Hilton, etc. If you have ever slept in any of those hotels, the bed sheet they use is a 100% cotton 300+ thread count. The Marriott specifically makes their bed with a signature sheet cotton blend.

Bed sheets are ordered with performance in mind. What bed sheets are the softest? Hotels normally manufacture 100% cotton for ultra-softness or a 65% cotton / 35% polyester blend for cotton softness and polyester durability.

How To Whiten Bed Sheets

If you aren’t concerned about harsh chemical then normal bleach works great. Aside from the ingredients you use to whiten, the washing steps are the same, you will just need to substitute bleach for baking soda and white vinegar.

5 Steps To Whitening Bed Sheets – How To Whiten Your Best Sheets For Airbnb

1. Choose to use bleach/detergent or baking soda/vinegar
2. Fill your washing machine with hot water and add the first or second method
3. First method: add a cup of bleach and a cup of detergent into the hot water
4. Second method: add half a cup of baking soda and a cup of vinegar into the hot water
5. Let the hot water mix for 10 minutes
6. Turn on washing machine to a normal cycle

How Often Should Bed Sheets Be Changed?

You should change your bed sheets once every two weeks. If you are allergic to dust mites, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America recommends washing your bed sheets once a week in 130 degrees Fahrenheit (54.4 Celsius) to kill the dust mites.

Sickness is a different story. Once you feel better and aren’t contagious, wash your bed sheets between 140 – 150 degrees Fahrenheit (60 – 65.5 Celsius) to ensure killing the germs. If you can’t find your washer settings, put your machine at the longest and highest heat settings possible.

How To Keep Bed Sheets Tight?

Ever had your mattress pad or fitted sheet pop off in the middle of the night? How annoying. We’ve had this happen on numerous occasions. Then you have to get up and fix it without disrupting your partner.

How do you keep bed sheets tight? Use an elastic bed corner straps to attach your bed sheet underneath the mattress corners. Honestly, we use them on all our beds and they are the greatest invention ever. Very easy to attach and take off for Airbnb beds.

Why Are Bed Sheets Important?

Bed sheets for Airbnb are important for the fact they protect the blanket or top layer from getting dirty. Most top layers take longer to clean making the process more time-consuming. Bed sheets place a barrier between the mattress and the top layer to limit the dirt transferred.

On top of protecting, bed sheets that are soft and luxurious feeling will subconsciously make you feel comfortable and enable a greater sleep.

Which Bed Sheet Goes On First?

In most countries, the fitted sheet goes first over the mattress. If you choose to use a mattress pad then that will go on the mattress first but a fitted sheet goes directly afterward.

The mattress pad is made synthetic material which repels stains and spills. This makes sleeping uncomfortable and you will need to place a fitted sheet directly on top of the pad.

Final Thought

Imagine this, if you had a horrible sleep at an Airbnb and four hours after waking up you write a review. The review will most likely be terrible and your Airbnb listing will be lower on the search rankings. Nobody wants that so invest in some high-quality bed sheets.

Airbnb Kitchen Essentials Checklist

The promise of a ‘Home away from home’ experience is one of the reasons people are booking Airbnb over traditional hotels. What is more homey for guests than preparing meals anytime during their stay? With a well-stocked kitchen, you have guaranteed a top-class experience for your guest. 

Our basic Airbnb kitchen essentials include a cooking device, sink, drying rack, washcloth, sponge, soap, pot, pan, sharp knife, cutting board, measuring cup, cups, dishes, utensils, and a fridge with a freezer.

In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive Airbnb kitchen checklist for hosts.

What Are Your Airbnb Kitchen Essential Basics?

The first step in creating a well-stocked kitchen is to provide basic kitchen essentials. Some of the must-have items to consider include:

Cooking Device

It must have a cooking device as long as it is a kitchen, which can be an entire oven, stovetop, hotplate, toaster oven or any other form. 

A hot plate is excellent if you want to prevent fire hazards. If you choose a hot plate, pick one 1500W or greater. This way, your guests will have enough power to heat the whole cooking pot. Remember to remind your guests to unplug or turn off all devices after

Cookware 

Pots, pans, and baking sheets are essential for any kitchen. Make sure to include a variety of sizes to accommodate different types of dishes that will be suitable for a stovetop and an oven.

For pots, our rule is to stock a pot large enough to cook a whole box of pasta. We stock all our Airbnb listings with a 3-Quart Non-stick Saucepan that is extra deep.

Regarding pans, we found a deep 12” cooking pan and a 10” cast iron skillet that is perfect for any guest’s cooking needs. One of the great things about cast iron skillets is that they are naturally non-stick = non-greasy pans. Also, they can go safely from the stovetop into the oven.

We recommend getting one of each to ensure a well-rounded cooking experience for your guests.

Utensils/Wine Opener

Spatulas, ladles, whisks, and other utensils will aid your guest in blending their ingredients. Provide a set of utensils that includes everything from wooden spoons to tongs.

We supply all our Airbnb listings with a basic 6-piece utensil set that gives our guests the means to cook whatever they need. Remember the wine/bottle opener your guests need to open cans and bottles.

Knives and cutting boards

A sharp knife and a sturdy cutting board are essential for chopping vegetables, slicing meat, and other food prep tasks.

Cutting boards 

A cutting board is a necessary accessory that will save you a lot of damage on your countertops. Trust us; we have learned the hard way.

A medium 10” * 15” cutting board works perfectly for most Airbnb listings. And to save space, we use an upright organizer for cutting boards and pans. 

Knives

You can take our cue if you are just starting and have a tight budget. We started with a basic setup of a large chef’s knife and a paring knife. With time you can upgrade to an entire block set with scissors and a sharpener. 

To save space in your kitchen, you can add a magnetic strip along a cupboard wall or backsplash. 

Tip: Add sheaths to your knives if you place them in a drawer to prevent them from bouncing around and becoming dull.

Mixing bowls And Measuring cups/spoons

Measuring is often unavoidable when cooking or baking, so your Airbnb kitchen needs one. We recommend getting stackable measuring cups to cover all the measuring units and save you space.
Don’t forget that mixing bowls are handy for everything from mixing cake batter to tossing a salad. Having them in different sizes will be ideal for your guests.

Colander/strainer 

A colander or strainer is essential for draining pasta or washing fruits and vegetables.

Airbnb Kitchen Appliances

While not strictly necessary, small appliances can make a big difference in your guests’ experience. Consider providing the following devices:

Fridge & Freezer

Airbnb guests love seeing a clean and cold fridge on arrival. We recommend supplying one no bigger than a 3.2 cu ft refrigerator unless your Airbnb listing has frequent one-month stays (location dependant). Furthermore, buy a fridge with a separate built-in freezer for frozen goods.

Our favourite tip is pre-stocking your fridge with either one water bottle per guest or a Brita water filter. If your Airbnb guests have had a long flight or didn’t have time to stop by a grocery store, they will surely appreciate water in the fridge. If you want to get creative, leave a locally-produced beer.

Coffee maker

Most guests will appreciate having a coffee maker to make fresh coffee in the morning.

We supply a single-serve Keurig coffee maker with various K-cups in a carousel for variety, size, and convenience.

Toaster or toaster oven 

A toaster is optional, but add it to your Airbnb kitchen for extra guest convenience.  

Blender

A blender should be part of the basic Airbnb kitchen essentials. A blender is perfect for making smoothies, soups, and sauces.

Surely, if your guest is going to cook, they would need one.

Microwave And Electric kettle 

A microwave is handy for heating leftovers or making popcorn. Sometimes, all a guest wants is to be able to heat their cold food orders which is why we recommend providing one.

An electric kettle is optional but perfect for making tea, hot chocolate, or other beverages.

Airbnb Kitchen Tableware

Tableware is integral to the dining experience and can make guests feel at home. When it comes to tableware, there are a few essentials you should provide for your guests.

Plates, Bowls, and Cups

How many guests does your Airbnb sleep? At the bare minimum, you should provide at least two sets of plates, bowls, cups, and mugs for each guest staying with you.

For a visually appealing look, keep all dinnerware matching, and typically, we avoid light-coloured sets since damage and stains are more noticeable to your guests.

Ensure the plates, bowls, and cups are of good quality and in good condition. You don’t want your guests to eat off chipped or stained dishes.

Flatware

Flatware includes forks, knives, and spoons. You should provide enough flatware for all guests; having extra sets on hand is always a good idea. Ensure they are clean and polished, and consider providing a utensil organizer so guests can easily find what they need.

Glassware

Glassware is essential for serving water, wine, and other beverages. Ensure you have enough glasses for all guests and provide a variety of sizes and types, such as wine glasses, water glasses, and tumblers. Again, make sure the glasses are clean and in good condition.

Serving Utensils

Serving utensils are essential for guests who want to host a dinner party or a family-style meal. Provide a variety of serving utensils, such as serving spoons, tongs, and ladles. 

Napkins and Placemats

Napkins and placemats can add a nice touch to the dining experience. Consider providing cloth napkins and placemats for guests who want to host a more formal dinner. If you prefer to provide disposable options, make sure they are high-quality and eco-friendly.

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Pantry Staples

Guests will appreciate having a few pantry staples on hand, such as:

Cooking oils

Cooking oil, such as olive or vegetable oil, is essential for cooking many dishes. Provide a small bottle for guests to use during their stay.

Salt and pepper

Salt and pepper are basic seasonings that are essential for any kitchen. Provide both salt and pepper grinders for guests to use.

Spices and herbs

Various spices and herbs, such as garlic powder, paprika, and oregano, can add flavour to any dish.

Sugar and sweeteners 

Sugar and sweeteners are essential ingredients used in many baking recipes and for sweetening coffee or tea. Provide a small container of granulated sugar for guests to use.

Coffee and tea

Provide a small supply of coffee and tea bags. Try to have four different types of coffee/tea and go one step further by setting out sugar, cream, and honey.

Basic condiments

Provide a selection of basic condiments, such as ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, and hot sauce.

Airbnb Kitchen Cleaning Supplies

Even if your Airbnb guest only stays for a few nights, they will want to live in a well-maintained environment. 

We learned this the hard way after our guest dropped a bad review about not having cleaning supplies in our Airbnb kitchen. But that was in our early hosting days; we have long learned from it. 

Here are some essential cleaning supplies that you should have on hand:

Dish Soap and Dishwasher Detergent

Provide dish soap and dishwasher detergent for guests to use when cleaning their dishes. Make sure to refill the supply as needed.

Sponges and Scrubbers

Make sure you provide a few fresh sponges and scrubbers for each new guest to ensure a hygienic kitchen environment.

Trash Bags

Provide enough trash bags for guests to use during their stay, and ensure it’s the correct size for your kitchen trash can. Also, provide instructions on how to dispose of them properly.

Cleaning Spray and Wipes

Be sure to provide a multi-purpose cleaning spray and enough wipes for guests to use during their stay.

Broom and Dustpan

A broom and dustpan are necessary for every Airbnb kitchen. Also, consider having a vacuum available for guests who prefer a deeper clean.

Special Surprise

Finally, while providing essential kitchen items for your Airbnb guests is important, going above and beyond can make their experience even more memorable. 

We can never forget our first Airbnb experience in Bali. The host had prepared a fresh fruit welcome basket with a complimentary beer in the fridge for us, a memory that will always remain with us.

Hence, consider leaving a special surprise package for guests to show your appreciation and make them feel welcome. We purchase local fruits and leave a fruit basket which is cheap – you can consider providing local snacks, a cookbook, and a welcome note.

Final Thoughts

Kitchens are one of the more crucial parts of your Airbnb listing. It can make and break a review. In this Airbnb kitchen essentials article, we hope to help you give your guests the best experience possible and great reviews for you.