Category: Travel Fun

  • Airbnb Coffee – How Much Coffee For 30 Cups

    Airbnb Coffee – How Much Coffee For 30 Cups

    Airbnb Coffee – How Much Coffee For 30 Cups

    Over 60% of coffee shops such as Starbucks and Dunken Donuts use Arabica coffee beans. The best-tasting coffee with rich subtle flavor is made from Arabica coffee beans. With the majority using these beans, you get more options to choose for your Airbnb coffee. In this blog post, we will suggest our favorite coffee styles and help find ways to make your listing appeal to guests.

    Airbnb coffee

    Should You Provide Coffee Pods, Ground Coffee Or Tea? How Much Does Each Cost?

    The benefits to a Keurig machine rather than a standard coffee maker are the options that come with it. Most Keurig machines for your Airbnb allow you to brew pods, ground coffee, or tea. Furthermore, we have found single-use coffee pods make cleaning up after guests check out easier.

    In a K-cup you average 10 grams of coffee, with 48 total cups multiplied by 10g per K-Cup you average 480g or 16.93 ounces. Take Amazons price of $29.19 and divide by 16.93 ounces then you come to 1.724 per ounce of McCafe K-Cup coffee.

    For a 680g jar of McDonald’s ground coffee, you are looking at a price of $28.35. That is a total of $1.18 per ounce of McDonald’s coffee.

    McCafe Ground Coffee

    This example is comparing McDonalds K-Cups to McDonald’s ground coffee. The price difference is $0.54 cents per ounce. With a Keurig machine, it is much easier to clean up and you can use K-Cups or ground coffee with an attachment. For a coffeemaker, you save $0.54 per ounce of coffee but have to spend a bit more time cleaning up. To avoid as much cleaning with a coffeemaker, leave a jar of coffee grounds for the duration of your guests to stay.

    Our Airbnb Coffee Overview:

    1. Kicking Horse Coffee
    2. Nicoletti Coffee
    3. Eight O’Clock Coffee
    4. Ethical Bean Fair Trade Coffee
    5. Bean Box Coffee

    Our Top 5 Coffee Picks You Should Try At Least Once

    1. Kicking Horse Coffee, Smart Ass, Medium Roast, Ground, 284g

    kicking horse light roast

    Kicking Horse loves to roast their coffee dark. With that said, we found Kicking Horse Smart Ass to be a medium roast but had a great non-bitter bold flavor. You could compare it to a Starbucks Blonde Roast. As a Canadian this blend is a staple, we love it here. For the Smart Ass blend, it was somewhat shocking. Whether you used fewer coffee grounds or a heavier amount, the coffee compensates perfectly. You get a nice citrusy taste and it’s still nice and full-bodied.


    2. Nicoletti Coffee Espresso Roast Beans 2.20lb

    How Much Coffee For 30 Cups

    We found this blend on a barista forum and all our Airbnb guests have loved it. It is a 75% Arabica, 25% Robusta combination. The flavor blew us away. In an Americano, the blend is incredibly smooth with no bitter aftertaste or acidity.


    3. Eight O’Clock Ground Coffee, The Original, 24 Ounce

    Airbnb Coffee

    Eight O’Clock is just simply a good light-medium roast coffee with no bad aftertaste or too acidic. It is the go-to coffee among Airbnb hosts. We love our strong coffees but found most light roasts lack full-bodied flavors. Eight O’Clock doesn’t and is the perfect reasonably priced blend. It’s just a solid choice.


    4. Ethical Bean Fair Trade Organic Coffee, Exotic Medium Roast

    Ethical beans

    Not only is Ethical Bean Coffee a reasonable price for quality, but it is also a fair trade coffee. “With Fairtrade, certified coffee producer organizations are guaranteed to receive at least the Fairtrade Minimum Price for their coffee, which aims to cover their costs of production and act as a safety net when market prices fall below a sustainable level.” – found on fairtrade.ca.

    If you are into how the coffee smells when brewed, then the aromas from a pot of Ethical Beans will be incredible. For the taste, it was a very nice full body and super flavorful. We found Amazon offers a better price than our local grocery store for Ethical Beans.


    5. Bean Box, World Coffee Tour, 16 Sampler Packs

    How Much Coffee For 30 Cups

    If you love to read about the history of coffee and where each bean comes from, then you have 16 choices with this Bean Box variety pack. Each package has notes explaining the flavor and what to expect. We bought this for our Airbnb guests and many mentioned it in our reviews. They enjoyed trying a new coffee every morning and reading about it.


    Check Out Our Other Articles On Airbnbuniverse.com


    What Are Airbnb Coffee Station Ideas?

    Airbnb coffee stations are a great way to showcase your Airbnb pictures and entice more bookings. Before we share our five favorite coffee brands we would like to inspire you with a few Airbnb coffee station ideas. In this blog post, we hope to bring out your creative genius.


    1. “Hosts Name” Blackboard Station

    If you want to brand your Airbnb and showcase more than one type of coffee then this blackboard station is a perfect way. Furthermore, it would be a great idea for showcasing local coffee brands that aren’t all over the world. Label each coffee jar with the brand name and supply enough for your full guest stay. Designed by Brent & Courtney at grayhousestudio.com

    blackboard station

    2. Vintage Wood Airbnb Coffee Station

    This inspires a coffee station that is simple, easy to build and looks vintage. For us, this Airbnb coffee station could just have the wooden boards over top saying “coffee” in thick black paint without everything else having the same vintage look.

    Airbnb coffee

    3. Modern White Airbnb Coffee Station

    Having a sign saying “coffee” or some form of that has always caught our eyes. It just tells the guest exactly what to expect and brings the area together. We love the white modern look of this Airbnb coffee station with all jars labeled. You wouldn’t need much space to get this design rolling.


    Airbnb coffee

    How Much Coffee For 30 Cups?

    For a 30 cup pot of coffee, the general rule of thumb is to use 1.5 cups of coffee ground for the full 30 cups. For regular strength coffee use 1.75 cups of coffee grounds, for strong coffee use 2 cups of coffee grounds and for extra strength use 2.5 cups of coffee grounds for a 30 cup pot of coffee.


    Final Thoughts

    There is nothing better than having a cup of coffee to start your day off right. Whether you’re on vacation or traveling for work, coffee is a necessity. Give your guests something to look forward to. We have tried many coffees ourselves and with our Airbnb guests, the above ones are our top 5 picks for the best results. Enjoy!

  • Best Mattress for Airbnb – Our Top 3 Picks in 2022

    Best Mattress for Airbnb – Our Top 3 Picks in 2022

    Best Mattress for Airbnb – Our Top 3 Picks in 2022

    Best mattress for Airbnb

    Sleep quality is one of the main criteria on which guests will rate your Airbnb unit. You have to do everything to ensure that guests have a good night’s sleep. Starting with the best mattress for your Airbnb is crucial. Only when you do so, you can expect raving reviews from guests.

    The primary component on which the sleeping quality of the guests depends is the bed mattresses. You have to be pretty selective while picking one.

    The question is, how should you choose one?

    We will not only share with you the criteria to consider while choosing one but also the five best options.


    Why Should I Have A Good Mattress In My Airbnb Unit?

    Honestly speaking, this question is pretty easy to answer. The advantages of having a good mattress are plenty like:

    Getting good reviews from guests

    Improving sleep quality

    Providing comfort to guests

    Making the unit more hospitable

    As you can see, all factors have a detrimental impact on the reviews that you receive from your guests. That is why; it is a no-brainer that you should choose the best possible mattress for your unit.


    What Should I look For In an Airbnb Mattress?

    There are a few parameters which you should look for while choosing the mattress. These include:

    Thickness

    Type of layers

    Size

    Support

    Once you compare different options on these four factors, it is easy for you to choose the right one.

    We will now share with you the five best mattresses for units. Once you go through this list, you can shun your worries about choosing the right one. You can pick any between these five options.


    1. Linenspa 8 Inch Memory Foam and Innerspring Hybrid Mattress

    Best Mattress For Airbnb

    What makes this one a good option?

    The answers are plenty. First of all, this one has a thickness of 8-inches, which is hybrid in structure. It consists of memory foam along with traditional innerspring support. Thus, not only it is soft but provides proper support to the body as well. As a result, the sleep quality of your guests will undoubtedly improve.

    Moreover, it is available in different sizes which means that irrespective of the type of bed you have, you can find the right size easily.

    When you look into the details of the construction, it consists of a layer of memory foam which minimizes the pressure on your body. Similarly, the innerspring ensures that it is sturdy enough to help your body rest.

    One of the problems which you will often face when choosing one for your rental unit is that you never know the preference of your guests. So, going with a medium foam variant is your best option. The one by Linenspa provides precisely that feel. That is why it is neither too soft, nor too hard.

    The confluence of these features makes it perfect for your unit.

    Features:

    Medium-firm feel

    Consist of memory foam

    Available in different sizes

    Reduces the pressure on the body

    Incorporates innerspring structure


    2. Ashley Furniture Memory Foam Mattress

    Best Mattress For Airbnb

    Are you looking for a quality mattress? If yes, this 12-inch Memory Foam variant is an excellent choice for your unit. It consists of a memory foam layer and a support foam core. As a result, it not only reduces pressure on the body but also provides firm support. One of the primary advantages of the foam core is that it minimizes motion transfer. As a result, the movement of one individual will not disturb the other.

    It consists of hypoallergenic material which makes it suitable for your units. It also reduces cleaning frequency. Thus, the turnaround time of your Airbnb unit goes down.

    It is available in various sizes, which means that finding the one suitable for your bed is not a problem. The hypoallergenic structure and the support foam core make it a great option.

    Features:

    Hypoallergenic

    Consists of memory foam and support foam core

    Available in different sizes

    Reduces motion transfer


    3. Queen Mattress Gel Memory Foam, for Sleep Cooler & Pressure Relief

    Best Mattress For Airbnb

    The USP of this one is the 10-inch gel foam structure. It consists of 3 layers of foam. The construction is such that it provides excellent heat dissipation. When you look at the composition, it consists of a 2-inch memory foam, 4-inch comfortable layer, and 4-inch high-density base support.

    The hypoallergenic cover on top is easy to maintain. You can wash it at your convenience. The breathable design means that it will be comfortable for all your guests.

    With various size options available, getting one that is perfect for your bed is quite easy. Another distinct feature is that it does not transfer the motion. Due to this very reason, it can improve the quality of sleep.

    The gel memory foam absorbs 95% pressure. Due to this very reason, not only the pressure on the body reduces, but also you will feel relaxed during sleep.

    With various features like reduced motion transfer, three-layer structure, excellent heat dissipation, and hypoallergenic cover, you cannot go wrong with this one.

    Features:

    Hypoallergenic cover

    Does not transfer motion

    3-layer foam structure

    Absorbs 95% pressure


    4. AmazonBasics Memory Foam Mattress Soft Bed, Plush Feel

    sleep quality for rental units

    You might be thinking, what does this mattress have on offer?

    For starters, it has a 12-inch thickness that consists of 3 foam layers. The composition of these layers is such that they provide proper softness and adequate support. So; your guests will get the plush feeling along with adequate body support.

    The memory foam layer on top provides an entirely soft surface to sleep. The breathable holes in the 2nd layer ensure that the airflow is pretty high. The 3rd layer consists of a wavy surface to provide proper support.

    With different sizes and thickness options available, you can buy the one which is most suitable for your unit. The breathable surface, along with the soft upper layer, makes it ideal for your unit.

    Features:

    3-layer architecture

    Highly breathable

    Available in different thickness and size options

    Soft upper layer


    5. Zinus Memory Foam Mattress 12-Inch Green Tea

    sleep quality for rental units

    What is the unique thing about this mattress?

    The answer is that it consists of green tea extract. You might think, what is the need of such extract, but it improves the sleep quality of your guests.

    When it comes to the composition, it consists of 3-inch memory foam (conforming) , 2-inch comfort foam, 3.5-inch base foam. The three-layer structure facilitates proper airflow due to the high-density foam layer. It is available in various size options.

    The green tea extract not only improves sleep quality but also reduces odor and increases freshness.

    When hosting a unit which receives above 80% occupancy, this feature can come in handy. Instead of spending a significant time maintaining it, the green tea extract will ensure that it always smells fresh. That is why; you can decrease the turnaround time.

    The green tea extract infusion makes it perfect for your guests.

    Features:

    Three-layer structure

    Increased airflow

    Consist of green tea extract

    Available in various size and thickness options


    Check Out These Articles On Airbnbuniverse


    Final Thought

    So, instead of choosing any substandard mattress for your Airbnb unit, it is better to choose between these five.

    We have weighted these mattresses on multiple data points to ensure that only the best ones make it to this list. All these have been specially selected, keeping in mind that the units can have high occupancy and require faster turnaround times. These mattresses can surely help you gain favorable reviews when it comes to sleep quality.

  • How To Contact Airbnb Through Website, Phone Number, Social Media, or Mail

    How To Contact Airbnb Through Website, Phone Number, Social Media, or Mail

    How To Contact Airbnb Through Website, Phone Number, Social Media, or Mail

    How To Contact Airbnb

    Airbnb units are becoming more and more popular. There are a large number of hosts signing up and with that, the number of guests grows exponentially. This results in the number of bookings going up and adds to the question “how do I contact Airbnb?”

    Usually, when you book a hotel, you might need to speak to the reception regarding your booking in advance during the stay. It is easy since you can get the contact number of the hotel right away. But what about Airbnb homes?

    To get straight to the point, Airbnb toll-free contact phone number is 1-855-424-7262 and the four ways to contact Airbnb include the official website, social media, customer phone number or mailing address.

    However, most of the guests, as well as hosts, are not aware of the ways to contact the company. In this article, we will show you all the ways to contact Airbnb and the reasons why you would as a host and guest.

    Top 4 Ways on How To Contact Airbnb

    1. Official Site:

    Contact us page: https://www.airbnb.com/help/contact_us

    There is a contact us page on the official website. You can easily send them your query through that official page.

    The contact us page is great if you need to send verification in or resolve a discrepancy between you and a host/guest. They will reply to your email ID. It can take up to 48 hours for them to get back. Here is Airbnb official website.

    2. Customer Phone Number:

    Phone Number: 1 (855) 635-7754

    Keep in mind, the average queue time is between 7 to 12 minutes to speak with an Airbnb representative. That is much quicker than a 48-hour email response.

    3. Social Media Channels:

    The company is primarily active across three social media channels. While they have profiles on other social media channels, these are the three best options in case you want to contact the company.

    Facebook and Twitter are the best options for social media. Furthermore, LinkedIn works great if want to know about job opportunities within Airbnb.

    When it comes to speed of response, social media channels are much more active. Depending on the nature of your issue, the resolution might not come as fast. However, the Airbnb phone line is one of the best ways to get immediate attention. That is the next option below.

    4. Mailing address:

    Address: 888 Brannan St, Floor 4, San Francisco, CA 94117

    If you wish to send them a postal mail, this is the mailing address that you can use. It can come in pretty handy if you want to send them some documents or official papers.

    Why Would Guests Contact Airbnb?

    1. Whenever there is any problem with the unit

    2. If the unit is vastly different than the listing

    3. If your booking is not being honored

    4. If you’re not able to get your deposit back

    5. If there is any safety or legal issue with the rental unit

    6. In case there is any problem with your booking

    If there is any dispute between you and the host, the company can mediate and solve it.

    Under such circumstances, it becomes imperative to contact the company for some help. Since you are away from your city, getting help from the company is the best way to go forward.


    Why Would Hosts Contact Airbnb?

    1. If the fake reviews appear on your listing

    2. If you’re not able to edit your listing or if the modified listing is not appearing on the site

    3. In case, the deposit does not cover the damage by the guest

    4. In case of a missing booking in your dashboard

    5. If, the guest is indulging in something illegal, and you want to cancel the guest booking

    So, there are various situations in which you need to contact the company as a host.

    Check Out Other Articles On Airbnbuniverse.com


    Final Thoughts

    So, if you want to contact Airbnb for any reason, the contact information on this page can help you out. It will ensure that you get a proper hearing and a suitable resolution as well. Instead of running helter-skelter, trying to solve your Airbnb problem, use any of the above contact methods.

    With these contact methods, it will be easy to get in touch with the company on time. Also, you can choose the contact method according to the concern you have, which means that you have higher chances of getting a proper resolution.

  • Airbnb vs VRBO – Which One Is Better For Hosts?

    Airbnb vs VRBO – Which One Is Better For Hosts?

    Airbnb vs VRBO

    Are you deciding on whether to host on Airbnb vs VRBO? The first two things you need to think about is the hosting fees and what style of homes you can list on each platform.

    With Airbnb, you can list your entire home, a private room, hotel rooms, or shared rooms. With VRBO, you are only able to list entire places. This includes full houses, apartments/condos, villas, estate, and hotels.

    The fact is, we love both and use them all the time to travel & host. In this article, we will help answer important questions such as: How much does it cost, what is the cleaning fees for both, and more.


    How Much Does It Cost To Use Both Airbnb & VRBO?

    What are Airbnb fees for hosts? Airbnb charges hosts a 3% booking fee and guests a 0-20% fee per booking.

    How much does it cost to use VRBO? They charge either $399 annually for hosts using the site regularly or 5% per booking + 3% credit card processing fee and guests a 5-15% fee per booking.

    The main difference is Airbnb has more listing such as shared and entire place listings, where VRBO only has entire place listings that are more strict with details such as separate entrances.

    Back in Canada, one of our listings has a basement suite but the entrance is inside the house from the kitchen. This fact alone doesn’t qualify us for VRBO.


    Airbnb vs Vrbo – How Much Are Cleaning Fees?

    For both Airbnb and VRBO, the average cleaning fee starting price is $50. With larger listings and hosts who get a company to clean, the average cleaning fee starts at $85.


    Is VRBO As Safe As Airbnb?

    Yes, VRBO is as safe as Airbnb. VRBO is a much longer-lived short term rental platform. Our preference for safety is, how many reviews does the listing have? Most guests will be very honest if something is unsafe or wrong. The reviews tell everything.

    On top of reviews, the main difference with safety is VRBO only allows hosts to list full separate properties. This allows you to book your own place with little to no interaction with the host themselves.


    Do You Pay Upfront For VRBO?

    VRBO was the first short term rental site to use the “pay less upfront method” Yes, it is called schedule payments, but the same idea applies.

    You have the option to schedule payment amounts from your guests to confirm a booking. This can be 100% at the time of booking or up to 3 payments with a percentage due under each scheduled payment.


    Are HomeAway and VRBO The Same Thing?

    HomeAway and VRBO are the same company. HomeAway first bought VRBO in 2007 as well as Vacationrentals.com.

    Does Expedia own HomeAway? Who bought HomeAway? On December 15, 2015, Expedia acquired HomeAway which includes both VRBO and vacationrentals.com

    Does HomeAway and VRBO Sharing Listings? If you list on either HomeAway or VRBO it shows up on both platforms. This will increase your views, bookings, and revenue.


    How Do I Avoid VRBO Service Fees? How Do I Avoid Airbnb Service Fees?

    As service fees get more expensive on all short term rental sites, finding ways to avoid them is great.

    Well, to be honest, there isn’t really an easy way to avoid VRBO service fees. The two ways are by asking the listing owner to reduce their nightly rate but this comes straight out of the owner’s pocket giving them less profit.

    The second way is by asking the owner if you can book directly from them and not go through Airbnb or VRBO. You can do this by searching the area on sites such as Kijiji or Craigslist.


    What Are VRBO Owner Fees?

    VRBO owner fees consist of three different possible charges:

    • 5% commission charged for the rental amount, plus any fees and additional payments.
    • 3% credit card/eCheck processing fee charged on the total payment amount you receive from your traveler, including taxes and refundable damage deposits. The portion of the processing fee charged for the damage deposit is refunded when you refund the deposit.
    • 2% of international surcharge may apply if using a non-US credit card.
    AirbnbvsVRBO

    What Type Of Listings Can You Book?

    With Airbnb, you can book entire places, private rooms, hotel rooms, and shared rooms. Furthermore, Airbnb allows you to book experiences wherever you are traveling.

    VRBO allows you to book entire places. Full houses, apartments/condos, villas, estate, and hotels.


    Check Out These Other Articles On Airbnbuniverse


    How Many Listings Are On Airbnb vs VRBO?

    Currently, in early 2019, Airbnb has roughly 4 million listings and VRBO has roughly 2 million listings across VRBO and HomeAway.


    Who Owns VRBO?

    HomeAway acquired VRBO in 2007. Expedia now owns both VRBO and HomeAway since December 15, 2015. Expedia paid $3.9 billion, or $38.31 a share, in cash and stock for all of HomeAway brands.


    What Does VRBO Stand For?

    VRBO stands for “vacation rental by owner”. Specializing in vacation rentals of all types: houses, apartment/condos, estates, cottages, etc.


    Can You Make Money With VRBO?

    Similar to Airbnb, you can make money with VRBO. Big decisions such as a great location, choosing a smart listing price (more bookings), and taking good pictures of your property will change how much you make per year.

    We did a short research on VRBO to see what our going rate was. A year in our city, we could earn up to $32,199 based on a 1 bedroom, 1-1/2 bath.


    Should You List On Airbnb or VRBO?

    Why not do both? List on both Airbnb and VRBO. For the most part, the more views your listing receives equals more bookings. If you only have a room to rent, then you are restricted to Airbnb.

    With an entire home, you are capable of listing on both VRBO and Airbnb which will double your bookings.


    Can You Respond To Reviews?

    On both Airbnb and VRBO, you can comment on a guests review within a certain time frame.

    With Airbnb, If you think a guest reviewed your listing falsely, you can write a response for other hosts and guests to view. You’ll need to write the response within 30 days of the initial review.

    VRBO allows guests to submit a review up to a year from the date of the stay. If the owner of the listing provides a review, travelers have 14 days to write their review.


    What Are Airbnbs Filter Options?

    Going from the left to the right, Airbnb filters are guests (adults, children, infants), home type (entire place, private room, hotel room, shared room), a price range with a minimum to maximum, instant booking (booking without waiting for hosts approval), and trip type (family or work).

    On the furthest right is more filters which include property types from bed & breakfasts, cabins, cottages and many more. Also under more filters are unique homes (boats, RVs, castles, etc) and  amenities (kitchen, gym, shampoo, etc)

    The last section under more filters is house rules, (suitable for events, smoking allowed, pets allowed), accessibility, neighborhoods, host language and if you want to stay with a super host.


    What Are VRBO Filter Options?

    Starting on the left, VRBO filters include price range with a minimum to a maximum, bedrooms or studio option, and instant confirmation (book without waiting for owner approval).

    On the furthest right is similar to Airbnb with more filters offering property types, features & amenities, property good for (families or luxury), accessibility, owner language, house rules and if you want to stay with a premium partner.

    The main differences with VRBO filters compared to Airbnb are additional options including booking options (24-hour confirmation), nearby activity, property review, and location.


    What Are Other Competitors?

    The other top competitors include Tripping, HomeToGo, FlipKey, HouseTrip, VayStay, VacayHero, Luxury Retreats, Wimdu, and Couch Surfing.

    airbnb vs vrbo fees

    Statistics On Airbnb:

    • Host Fee: 3% booking fee
    • Guest Fee: 0-20% per booking
    • Monthly Traffic: 80 million visitors

    Statistics On VRBO:

    • Host Fee: $499 annually or 5% per booking + 3% credit card processing fee
    • Guest Fee: 5-15% per booking
    • Combined Monthly Traffic: 40 million visitors

    Does Airbnb or VRBO Charge Hosts More?

    We get this question asked alot when it comes to hosting on both Airbnb and VRBO platforms, Airbnb has a significant cheaper hosting fee compared to VRBO.

    The only way to avoid VRBO larger hosting fees is to sign up for their $500/year premium membership which also includes a search filter for your listings.


    Final Thoughts

    Airbnb and VRBO are the top platforms as of right now in 2019, as time changes more competitors are taking over such as Booking.com. We list the most frequently asked questions on both Airbnb and VRBO to help you decide for yourself. Enjoy and happy hosting.

  • Furnishing Your Airbnb – Top 3 Free Options

    Furnishing Your Airbnb – Top 3 Free Options

    Furnishing Your Airbnb – Top 3 Free Options

    Furnishing Your Airbnb For Free

    Furnishing your Airbnb for free can be tough. Because all these methods are free, it may take more time to search for the items you desire. Piece by piece you can make any Airbnb into a spectacular listing. Best of all, if you are looking for your Airbnb to stand out, you can find some vintage furniture with the sites below.

    The most recognized online website to buy and sell locally is Craigslist. Almost everyone knows about it and has searched for something with it. Little did you know there are alternative options.

    Over the past few years, other websites and social media platforms have started implementing a buy and sell feature for locals. On top, many platforms include a swap/trade where you can trade something you have for something you want. This brings in a negotiation aspect of furnishing your Airbnb.


    Our Top 3 Ways To Furnish Any Airbnb For FREE


    # 1 – Facebook.com

    Most people think of Facebook as a place to connect with friends and watch funny videos. What you might not realize is Facebook has a “marketplace” for buying and selling locally. On top of the marketplace, Facebook has groups. You are able to find practically any form of groups. Our favorites are city-wide free groups or very specific smaller community groups. 

    There are two methods for finding free stuff on Facebook. First is by joining groups and second by using the local marketplace to buy and sell. Below are the two methods with step-by-step details:


    Facebook Groups

    Facebook groups are a great way to find free items. If a group member is giving away an item, chances are they just want to get rid of it. If you take the time to join these groups you can find some amazing stuff. The only downfall is you will have to spend more time in the group and refreshing the page.


    Step 1 – Searching For The Facebook Group

    By typing in the Facebook main search bar “Free” a bunch of local groups boards will show up. Most likely with the name of your city and some sort of free acronym. It will look something like this:

    Furnishing Your Airbnb For Free

    Step 2 – Requesting To Join A Facebook Group

    When you enter the search. The next page will be all the local Facebook groups. Some of these groups are private and you will need to “request to join”. When you request the admin will ask you to answer a few questions such as “why do you want to join” or “what city do you live in” Afterward, the admin will either accept or decline your request.

    Furnishing Your Airbnb For Free
    Furnish Your Airbnb For Free

    Remember, most of these Facebook free groups are not about making money. You can look for items or mention items you are giving away. Everything is based on being FREE.


    Step 3 – Asking For Specific Items Within The Facebook Groups

    Finding items is the most time-consuming process. When it’s free you have to be patient. In the Facebook group simply ask for what you are looking for. The more details the better which can include measurement sizes and color etc.


    Facebook Marketplace

    This second method is similar to what Craigslist would be. Facebook users place items on the marketplace for buying, selling or free. With a thorough search, you can find practically anything you need quickly. It is a great way to give away items and best of all, it automatically pairs your searches up locally.


    Step 1 – Finding The Facebook Marketplace

    This could be different at the time you are reading this blog post. Facebook recently added the marketplace and I’m sure their interface will change over time. For a guaranteed link to the marketplace check out Facebook marketplace.

    Furnishing Your Airbnb For Free

    Step 2 – Searching For Free Items On The Facebook Marketplace

    Within the Facebook marketplace, you are able to search for any items but for this example, we are searching for “Free”.

    The top search results will be the most recent, free and have a time frame on which they were posted. At the bottom of each listed item, you will see a marking on the free pictures. Remember, the best items on the top results will most likely be picked off the quickest.

    Furnishing Your Airbnb For Free

    Check Out These Other Articles On Airbnbuniverse


    # 2 – Craigslist.org

    For free items, Craigslist is the most recognized. The website resembles classified ads in the newspaper and is simple in appearance. On top, Craigslist has so many users that you can find free items whether you are in a big city or a small town.

    Step 1 – Picking Your Craigslist Region

    The main thing that Craigslist stands out with is the vast amount of users and regions you can choose from. First, go to the website home page Craigslist.org and choose the closest city as your region.

    Furnish Your Airbnb For Free

    Step 2 – Finding Craigslist Free Section

    There are many choices when it comes to a Craigslist section including the free one under the “for sale” category. This section is the best for furnishing your Airbnb for free and includes the most choices.

    Furnish Your Airbnb For Free

    Step 3 – Searching Craiglist For Free Stuff

    The main difference between Craigslist free and other websites is the ability to search for items within the free category. The search results will show the most recent first and filter among locations.

    How to furnish your Airbnb for free

    #3 – Letgo.com

    Letgo is the most popular Craigslist alternative and the most user-friendly of the two options. We found Letgo does the best job at grouping products together and was the easiest to find items through their navigation.

    The best part of Letgo is that the home page has the most recent items, unlike other websites. Whether it’s a free item or for a price, by clicking on the item shown you can see everything else that seller has for sale.

    Step 1 – Finding Letgo Free Stuff Button

    On Letgo home page you will notice the most recently listed items at the top. Some of the free items will appear on the home page but we recommend click the free stuff button.

    Furnish Your Airbnb For Free

    Step 2 – Letgo Filters That Can Help Narrow Down Your Searches

    Within the free stuff page, you will find additional filters that help narrow down your search. You are capable of changing your location, sorting by type or posts within a certain time frame. By default, the top free items will be the most recent.

    Furthermore, on the top right corner of each image, there will be a free logo to help you you navigate your searching. Enjoy!


    Final Thoughts

    Whether you have little money or no money at all, these top three sites are a great way to furnish your Airbnb for free. It may take more time than outright buying new but works great. As a result, you can bring down the cost to start any Airbnb unit and hit the ground running. Enjoy and happy hosting!

  • How To Make an Airbnb Bed Like a Hotel

    How To Make an Airbnb Bed Like a Hotel

    How To Make an Airbnb Bed Like a Hotel

    How do you make the perfect Airbnb bed

    Ever notice how hotel beds are always perfectly made. How do you make a bed for Airbnb? With the steps below, you will not only make your Airbnb beds faster but your guests will feel like they are staying in a hotel. Happy hosting!


    How Do You Make An Airbnb Bed Like A Hotel?


    Step #1 – Place Your Airbnb Mattress Pad First

    Mattress pads are very important. They not only protect the mattress from spills or accidents but also helps make the mattress softer. Furthermore, if you purchase an extra firm mattress and use a mattress pad to soften it up, you will lengthen the lifespan of the mattress.

    After you have cleared the bed from pillows, top layers, and staging pillows, etc. Place the pad on the mattress and tuck the elastic corners around the mattress edges. Pull the corners tight for fewer wrinkles and creases.


    Step #2 – Place The Fitted Sheet

    This will be the exact same process as the mattress pad. The bed should already be cleared. Place the fitted sheet over the mattress pad on the mattress and tuck the elastic corners around the mattress edges.

    Lift the mattress and tuck the elastic corners under it. Again pull the corners tighter if the fitted sheet is wrinkled or creased.

    Bed Making Procedure In Hotel

    Step #3 – Put The Top Sheet On

    Use the umbrella method. Take the two full-length corners of the top sheet and fan it over the fitted sheet.

    The side with the large hem goes at the top of the Airbnb bed. Align the hem at the mattress top edge. With patterned sheets, the design should face down so guests can see it when folded over.

    Remember to make sure the top sheet is properly sized and spread evenly on all three sides. Fold the top sheet into “hospital corners”. This is the most difficult part of making a bed but resembles the bed making procedure in a hotel.


    How To Make A Hospital Corner:

    • Tuck the top sheet at the foot of the bed between the mattress and the box springs. Make sure it’s wrinkle-free by tucking it tightly.
    • On one side of the bed, grab the corner of the top sheet. Pull it upward and fold this section of the sheet over the top of the mattress. Make sure it forms a 45-degree angle going upwards.
    • Still holding the folded piece of sheet, tuck the loose ends under the mattress and box springs.
    • Next, let the folded piece of sheet laying on top of the mattress dropdown. At this point, you can choose to tuck the piece of the sheet at a 45 degree or 90-degree angle under the mattress and box springs.
    • Repeat this process on the opposite side of the bed and you are done.
    how to make an Airbnb bed

    Check Out These Other Articles On Airbnbuniverse


    Step #4 – Choose A Top Layer

    Whether you choose a duvet, comforter or blanket is your choice. With whatever you choose, lay all edges evenly over the mattress. Depending on your Airbnb location will determine what you need to provide as a top layer.


    Step #5 – Fold The Top Sheet Over Your Top Layer

    This will present a neat, clean look for your guests. Take the edge of your top sheet at the head of the bed and fold it back over the top layer.

    Next, tuck the folded top sheet and top layer under the sides of the mattress for a nicely fitted bed. Our favorite trick is to purchase a top sheet that is a different color or pattern both sides. This way when you fold it back over the top layer the look is amazing.

    Some resources and high recommendations came from our friends over at Bnbnomads.


    Step #6 – Spice Up The Pillows

    After every two Airbnb guests make sure you fluff up your pillow. You do this by grabbing both sides of a pillow and squeeze together. The goal is to breathe air into the pillow giving them a thickened look and feel.

    Another alternative is to throw wool dryer balls in the dryer with your pillows. Make sure the dryer is on the lowest heat settings possible.

    Smooth out the pillowcase and lay them upright between the top cover and head of the bed. We recommend at least two pillows per guest. If you have more than two pillows, stack the extras on the bed directly in front of each other.


    Step #7 – Additional Touches

    Showcasing your Airbnb bed is ideal, especially within your bedroom pictures. To finish it off, add a staging pillow and place it upright in front of your sleeping pillows at the head of your bed.

    Folding a decorative or throw blanket at the base of the bed is great for colder climates. It looks nice and adds a welcoming touch.

    How to make a perfect Airbnb bed

    Final Thoughts

    How you make your Airbnb bed is the most judged part of your bedroom. Heck, it brings the whole room together and is where your guests spend most of their time (even if it’s sleeping). With the steps we provided and a bit of detail you will have a perfect Airbnb bed that is ready for listing pictures and guest approval.

  • Best Luggage Sets – A Helpful Guide in 2019

    best luggage sets in 2019

    While a backpack could be enough for a 2-day trip, you still need a luggage set if you’re planning an extended journey. Especially if you want to protect your personal belongings during the intrusive searches and long security lines at the airport.

    But with the many options on the market, choosing the best luggage set can be an overwhelming experience.

    To ensure you make a worthwhile investment, you should pay close attention to the physical features such as the design, wheels, zippers, handles and the quality of the material. The other things to look for are the warranties and your personal taste.


    Why Buy A Luggage Set?

    If you break down the total price of a luggage set compared to individual luggage pieces, the sets will always be cheaper. Another great benefit is all luggage pieces having the same design and color making it easier to spot on the airport’s conveyor belts.

    Often a full luggage set has features that are compatible with each other. For example, some carry-on bags will slide over the handle of a larger 24-inch luggage bag for easy transport or the full luggage set will have nested compatibility.


    What Are The Best Luggage Sets in 2019?


    Samsonite Centric Expandable 3-Piece Luggage Set (Link to Amazon)

    Best luggage sets in 2019

    Rockhold F160 3-Piece Melbourne Luggage Set (Link to Amazon)

    best luggage sets in 2019

    (Link to Amazon)

    best luggage sets in 2019

    Hauptstadtkoffer Glossy Hardside Luggage Set (Link to Amazon)

    best luggage sets in 2019

    American Tourister 3-Piece Nested Set (Link to Amazon)

    best luggage sets in 2019


    Samsonite Omni Pc 3-Piece Spinner Set (Link to Amazon)

    best luggage sets in 2019

    It’s made of scratch-resistant polycarbonate material which is a sign of quality craftsmanship. The interiors feature a simplistic design and have a mesh pocket to store your papers.

    This model is offered in 8 color variants to suit your preference and re-engineered lightweight spinner wheels for effortless mobility.

    In terms of size, you get a lot for each bag. The body dimensions are 28.5″ x 20.5″ x 13.5. Other notable features include TSA lock and expandable pockets.

    Pros:

    • The spinner wheels are durable
    • The micro-diamond texture is scratch-resistant
    • Massive capacity
    • Versatile design
    • Lightweight for the size

    Cons:

    • Marginally pricey

    Steve Madden Luggage 4-Piece Spinner Set (Link to Amazon)

    best luggage sets in 2019

    This is a stylish luggage bag designed for your extended travels. The 4-piece collection includes 3 suitcases and one satchel. The satchel is roomy and can accommodate your MacBook, laptop, and other personal essentials.

    The construction is lightweight to avoid airline fees and a 360-degree wheel design for easy travels. The luggage set has plenty of pockets and can be expanded for additional space.

    The full dimensions with wheels and handles included are: carry-on: 21.5″ x 14″ x 9″, medium: 25.5″ x 16.2 x 11.7″, large: 29.5″ x 18.2″ x 12.8″, and satchel: 18″ x 12″ x 10″.

    Pros:

    • Comes with luggage tags
    • The zippers are well-built
    • The interior has many pockets
    • Offered in four colors
    • Lightweight design

    Cons:

    • The wheels don’t turn easily

    Samsonite Outpost 5-Piece Nested Luggage Set (Link to Amazon)

    best luggage sets in 2019

    It features a quality finish and vibrant color scheme that will leave a lasting impression. The set contains a travel tote, travel duffel, toiletry kit, 22-inch carry-on upright, and 26-inch upright.

    It’s worth mentioning that the interiors are fully lined while the exteriors are made of denier polyester. Plus, you can easily open the front pouch outward.

    All dimensions include: 26″ upright (26″ x 18″ x 10″ weighs 11.4 lbs.), 22″ upright (22″ x 14″ x 9″ weighs 9.4 lbs.), travel duffel (22.5″ x 12″ x 12″ weighs 3.2 lbs.), travel tote (15″ x 11.5″ x 10.5″ weighs 2.6 lbs.), toiletry kit (10.5″ x 7.5″ x 4.5″ weighs 6 lbs.)

    Pros:

    • The wheels are well-built
    • Expandable
    • Lightweight
    • Stylish exterior

    Cons:

    • Prone to scratches

    What Is The Maximum Size Checked Luggage?

    Most major airlines have a limit of 50 pounds per checked bag and a total size restriction of 62 linear inches. The most common dimensions for a checked luggage bag is 27″ * 21″ * 14″.



    What Is A Nested Luggage Set?

    Nested are luggage bags that fit inside another luggage bag. The benefit is less storage space and convenience.

    For hardside nested, we absolutely love the Samsonite Omni Set and for softside nested, we love the Desley Sky Max Nested Set.


    What Are Some Other Deciding Factors On Luggage?

    Material – Softside or hardside will change the material used. Softside luggage sets are made up of fabrics that can flex and compress into tight spaces. Usually woven nylon, such as cordura, ballistic, or ripstop. Hardside luggage sets are made up of high-quality plastics such as ABS and polycarbonate, which are lightweight and durable.

    Weight – The most important feature if you don’t want to be charged extra when you fly. If your luggage bag starts heavy then packing or bringing gifts home is a struggle.

    Accessibility – Whether it is a small or large piece of luggage, accessibility is more common with soft luggage. Normally, soft luggage will have front pockets that you can reach into without having to open the rest of the bag. Hardside comes with an exterior shell that protects all personal belongings inside.

    Mobility – The main focus with this are the wheels. A high quality set of luggage wheels will be able to handle all the different conditions you throw at it. On top, handle the rough conditions at the airport.

    Storage – For us, storage and organization make packing and unpacking easier. Having a well-designed bag with side pockets for specific items will do both of those.


    Which Brand Of Luggage Is The Most Durable?

    For luggage being durable and well built, Samsonite brand is the top choice. Samsonite’s hardside and softside luggage are incredibly durable, resistant to tears, stains, and moisture.

    Altogether Samsonites luggage is well-designed, lightweight, powerfully built which makes traveling easier. Our recommendation for hardside would be the Centric Set or for softside the Advance Xlt Set.


    best luggage sets in 2019

    best luggage sets in 2019

    What Is Softside Luggage Made of?

    Cordura – Softer than ballistic material and more abrasion-resistant.

    Ballistic – Smoother and more reflective than others

    Ristop Nylon – Very lightweight fabric that is used as parachute material


    What Size of Luggage Should I Buy?

    How long is your trip? If you are having a casual weekend getaway, a carry-on will be fine. For a business trip where you need casual and dress clothes, a standard checked luggage bag would be needed.

    Here are our luggage guidelines:

    1 person on a 4 day trip or shorter – 20-inch carry-on

    2 people on a 4 day trip or shorter – 24-inch checked luggage bag or smaller

    2 people sharing a bag on a 4 day trip or longer – between 24 – 30 inch checked luggage bag

    We recommend a luggage set that comes with one of each, the best option is: Rockland F160 Melbourne Luggage Set


    What Are The Luggage Sizes?

    • 18″ – 20″ Carry-On Luggage
    • 21″ – 22″ Carry-On Luggage
    • 23″ – 27″ Checked Luggage
    • 28″ – 32″ Suitcase

    Final Thoughts

    Whether you’re an avid traveler or you want to revamp your e-commerce business, you should consider a great luggage set. These luggage sets are designed to accommodate pretty much anything and are durable. Needless to say, they are spacious and can withstand any abuse before showing signs of damage. A great model will get you on your journey without any worries and fears.

  • Top 25 Airbnb Bedroom Essentials Every Host Must Have

    Top 25 Airbnb Bedroom Essentials Every Host Must Have

    Top 25 Airbnb Bedroom Essentials Every Host Must Have

    short term rental checklist

    Falling asleep on the first night in an Airbnb bedroom can be tough. Ensure your guests end their day comfortable and start the next day refreshed for whatever it entails.

    For an Airbnb bedroom, having a high-quality mattress and bedding is important. Both of these will help your guests have a good night’s rest. Every Airbnb bedroom will have the basics including a bed, bedsheets, pillows, blinds, a place to unpack, a smoke alarm, a carbon monoxide detector, and a trash can.

    The bedroom is where your guests will spend most of their time (even if it’s sleeping). Let’s look into more details on which items can improve their stay.


    What Are Your Airbnb Bedroom Idea Basics?


    1. A Good Quality Mattress

    Sleeping on a bad mattress is a major reason for negative reviews. Whether you are in a hotel or an Airbnb, guests will notice the quality of your mattress.

    On the same topic, many things could affect someone’s sleep. Having a bad frame, a squeaky bed, or the mattress could be worn and soft.

    To fully understand how your guests feel, take the time to sleep on your own mattress. This way you will truly understand what your guests are going through.

    For us, the Zinus mattress has treated us very well and guests have only left good reviews about it.

    How to pick a new mattress:

    • 1) Set a budget and stick to it. Do not be convinced into buying a box spring set unless you actually need it.
    • 2) Test the bed and lie on all mattresses you consider
    • 3) Check the return policy in case your guests give bad reviews.

    2. Bed Frame

    The bed frame is just as important as the mattress. They both go hand-in-hand and complement each other. You can’t have a good Airbnb bedroom without a good mattress and bed frame. Our absolute favorite is the Zinus bedframe, which we have in our Airbnb and our own bed. It holds up to 1200 lbs, is extremely sturdy and is an overall great product.


    3. Bed Sheets

    The order of bedding goes as follows – a fitted sheet, flat sheet, then top layer (duvet, quilt, comforter, blanket). High-quality bedding will always be noticed and appreciated. Not only does it go noticed, but it lasts longer and tends to be easier to maintain.

    Make sure your bed sheets are clean, especially if you have pets that shed. Store a second set of bed sheets in case your guests accidentally spill or for a fast check-in/check-out. We use hypoallergenic bed sheets that are fade, wrinkle, and stain-resistant.


    4. Duvet, Quilt, Comforter, Blanket

    All you need is one of the four. What you pick really depends on your Airbnb property location and weather. If you live in hot weather year-round, a lighter layer is needed. With colder weather, multiple layers will do.

    On top of your location make sure you pick the properly fitted ones (twin, full, queen, king). We always place an all-season hypoallergenic comforter on all our beds for allergy-sensitive guests and an extra blanket nearby in case our guests get cold at night.

    Airbnb Bedroom

    5. Two Pillows Per Guest

    Airbnb’s policy is a minimum of one pillow per guest. Place one pillow per guest at the head of the bed and decorative staging pilows if you choose.  Every guest has a different preference. Having one memory foam pillows and one goose feather pillows will leave every guest satisfied.


    6. Waterproof Mattress Spill Cover

    We use a spill cover on all our Airbnb mattresses. The cover prevents water damage or any kind of accident your guests would otherwise cause. Spill covers can also save your home from dust mites and bed bugs. We love our hypoallergenic breathable covers for any guests who are sensitive to allergies.


    7. Blinds, Curtains, or Shutters

    Airbnb properties need privacy. Choosing one of these three, which will block out sunlight for guests who can only sleep in complete darkness or want to sleep in later than sunrise.

    Here’s our favorite combination:  we use blinds for our basement windows (They are normally higher up and the pull strings are easier to get to) and shutter for all other windows.

    Shutters are the easiest to clean and maintain.


    8. A Place to Unpack (Dresser or Closet)

    There is never enough room to unpack. For us, unpacking makes us feel more relaxed and at home instantly. When our Airbnb bedroom closet isn’t big enough, we use a thin tall dresser or an armoire. Don’t forget to provide clothes hangers.


    9. Smoke Alarm or Carbon Monoxide Detector

    By code in most countries, you need to provide a smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector. These do come together in one unit making it easier to install or replace. Our favorite is the battery-operated smoke & carbon monoxide combination detector.


    10. Trash Can & Extra Bags

    You will want a trash can big enough to hold 4 nights of garbage. For us, a 2-gallon capacity is big enough. One of our time-saving tricks is to leave extra garbage bags at the bottom of the trash can.

    Airbnb Bedroom

    What Are Your Additional Airbnb Bedroom Options?


    11. Nightstand

    In all our Airbnb properties we provide a nightstand with extra water bottles on them. A nightstand stops your guests from having to reach down or kicking their devices off the bed while they sleep. We love this simple nightstand with shelving underneath for extra guest storage.


    12. Heater or Air Conditioning

    Depending on where you live will change if you need an extra heater or air conditioning unit. We live in Canada, so it gets cold in the winter months and hot in the summer months.

    We provide a combined heater/cooling window unit that is stored in the closet during off-seasons. If your guest gets too hot or cold, it will affect your reviews.


    14. Safe or Vault

    Think about when you have traveled to a high-end hotel. The majority of them will have a safe or a vault included for passports, money, etc.

    The purpose is to make you feel like your personal belongings and important documents are protected.

    Mentioning the safe before or during your Airbnb guest’s check-in will help them relax right away. Make sure you get a safe that includes a backup key for emergency use in case your guests forget their code.


    Check Out These Other Articles On Airbnbuniverse.com


    15. Iron and Ironing Board

    While you travel your clothes get wrinkled. A suitcase can only do so much with airlines throwing your bags around. Guests traveling for work or a special occasion will appreciate a good steam iron and ironing board.

    One of our favorite tricks is to use downy wrinkle release spray and iron the bedsheets after we wash them. If you want to go one step further, iron the pillowcases.


    16. A Box of Tissues

    Depending on what time of year your guest’s travel may affect being in the flu or cold season. On top of that, your guests may have allergies in a new country.

    Be prepared and leave a box of tissues where your guests can see them.

    Airbnb Bedroom

    17. Pen & Note Pad

    If your Airbnb guests are staying with you for work, they may get a call late at night. Leaving a pen & notepad is a great option. If you’d like to get really brandy you can even engrave them with your Airbnb or company logo.


    18. Alarm Clock

    An alarm clock is old school, but your Airbnb guests will be of all ages. Most people use cell phone alarm clocks with multiple alarms. Other heavy sleepers like to have backup alarms on a separate device to wake up.

    Our favorite is the home labs sunrise alarm clock. It is great for heavy sleepers and provides multiple nature alarms and six LED color boards.


    19. Candles

    Have you ever walked into an Airbnb bedroom that smells like cinnamon? It’s awesome! Candles are great for covering up the smell of burnt food or setting a mood.


    20. Hangers

    Nothing relaxes your guests faster than unpacking and getting comfortable with their surroundings. Giving them hangers for their clothes is one step closer to vacation mode.


    21. Lamp

    We love to read and the Airbnb bedroom lights are never enough in our eyes. By placing a lamp beside the bed you stop your guests from getting up, which can disrupt their partner’s sleep.

    If your Airbnb bedroom is short on wall outlets near the bed, place a nightstand lamp with an outlet built-in. The lamp gives your guests an opportunity to charge their devices and read at the same time. Our favorite is the dimmable LED nightstand lamp with a USB port for all devices to charge on.

    Airbnb Bedroom

    22. Extra Blankets

    You can choose to supply one or more. In one of our Airbnb’s, we have a couch, air mattress, and pull-out couch. The amount of times we have had last-minute surprise guests is baffling. An extra blanket has helped with all the surprises and adds another layer for warmth.


    23. Bench or Chair

    Extra furniture in a room can serve as multiple functions. A bench, for example, can be a place to sit while tying your shoes for your older guests or can be just for decorative purposes. The main deciding factor will be if you have the extra space.


    24. Decor

    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 bedroom (fake is fine), or any other form of decorations, it’s guaranteed to bring character to the room.

    We love to decorate all our Airbnbs with paintings that connect with one another and fake plants that are very easy to maintain.


    25. Speakers

    Either a speaker built into your Airbnb or a simple Bluetooth speaker will suffice. Letting your guests have their own music will make the trip more enjoyable.


    26. T.v. In Your Bedroom

    Every guest has a different way of falling asleep. Some reading a book and others watch t.v. If you choose to put a t.v. in your bedroom remember to set up guest accounts on all your streaming platforms.

    The two recommendation we would make is to get last years model of a smart t.v. and place it on a wall-mounted bracket. Smart t.v’s comes with practically any movie streaming site built-in and the wall mount will save you floor space.


    What Are Our Airbnb Bedroom Secrets?


    Extra Set of Bedding

    Accidents do happen, whether your guests have an accident themselves or spill something. A clean, ready-to-go set of bedding will come in handy in an emergency situation or for fast check-in.

    Having just one set of bedding has caused us grief and headaches numerous times. We now have multiple sets ready to go.

    A trick of ours is to provide a high thread count set which you will normally use for your bedding and a low quality set for emergency situations.


    Laundry Basket

    Some of your guests will want to stay organized during their visit and placing a laundry basket for dirty towels will help.

    Not often, but every once in a while, our guests will clean the towels for us and speed up the cleaning process.


    Nightlight

    On guests first night, the walk to the bathroom can be disorientating and confusing. In one of the Airbnb’s we stay in, the host set nightlights in their hallways leading into the bathrooms to help guide us.

    We both thought it was a great idea and a best-kept secret. You are able to purchase nightlights that have an outlet built into them, but for cost purposes, we recommend a standard 6-pack.


    Outlet Near Bed

    We have been to one Airbnb that had no outlet besides the bed, whether it is because of how the room was built or how they designed the Airbnb layout, we don’t know.

    This isn’t the end of the world for most guests, but since we use our laptops for blogs such as this, it was a hassle. Other guests may want to watch their favorite t.v show on their laptop before bed.


    Fan

    Every Airbnb will have different conditions, sometimes the bedroom has bad circulation or is small. For us, air conditioning in the summertime will make our guests to cold, but a fan is a perfect solution. Place one tucked away in your closet or storage area and let your guests know.


    Robes

    If you want your Airbnb to have that 5-star feeling without the 5-star cost then offer robes to your guests.


    Flashlight

    Always prepare for emergency power outages, especially if you are in an area that it commonly happens to. Warn your guests beforehand and let them know where to locate the flashlights.


    Earplugs

    We always bring earplugs with us while we travel. You never know what to expect. If your Airbnb bedroom gets noisy from a highway, a local train going through your city, living downtown, etc, go one step further and offer earplugs to your guests.

    Final Thoughts

    Providing your guests with a few of these items or all is your choice. We are here to suggest some of the items we use in our Airbnb listings. It really comes down to the room your bedroom has and what style of look you are going for. Enjoy and happy hosting!

  • 8 Airbnb Bathroom Essentials – The Ultimate Step-By-Step Guide

    8 Airbnb Bathroom Essentials – The Ultimate Step-By-Step Guide

    8 Airbnb Bathroom Essentials – The Ultimate Step-By-Step Guide

    Airbnb Bathroom

    What hosts offer in their Airbnb bathroom greatly depends on the nightly price and country. In some cities like New York, a large bathroom is too expensive and for others, sewer systems may be underdeveloped leading to backups.

    Every Airbnb bathroom should have most of the basics including toilet paper, towels, hand soap, a place to hang clothes/towels, shampoo, bathroom floor mat, and a trash can. The main factors when designing your Airbnb bathroom is the size, layout, and location.

    Normally the size of an Airbnb bathroom is limited which means thoughtful planning goes a long way. Furthermore, a well-designed bathroom will stand out more than any other room in your Airbnb listing.

    In this article, we will help you set up the perfect Airbnb bathroom and more. Let’s get started.


    What Are Airbnb Bathroom Basics?


    1. Toilet Paper On A Dispenser

    Airbnb bathroom

    Most guests won’t notice what brand of toilet paper you have but do notice when they run out. If your guests are staying for a week or longer supply extra toilet paper and mention you have more if they need it.

    Our rule of thumb is to supply one roll of toilet paper per guest for every two nights. For any extra toilet paper rolls, we either stack them on a shelf above the toilet or use a roll holder/dispenser combination that holds up to two extra rolls. Furthermore, buying in bulk or on sale is a great way to get high-quality toilet paper for your guests.


    2. Towels For Each Airbnb Guest

    We stock all our Airbnb properties with two bath towels, one hand towel, and one washcloth per guest. For longer stays, store extra towels wherever you have space. We always install a shelf above the toilet and place our extra towels there. Another option is neatly rolling your towels up and placing them in a basket. If you want more details on towels, then check out our full blog post on Airbnb towels. Remember, if you live near a beach then provide a full-sized beach towel.

    Airbnb bathroom

    3. Hand Soap – Scented and Unscented

    We have had complaints about guests being allergic to chemicals in laundry detergent and hand soap. For us, when we stay in an Airbnb we love a good smelling hand soap. To avoid problems, provide a well-scented handsoap but have unscented as a hidden backup. Unscented also ensures anyone can use the soap.


    4. Place To Hang Extra Clothes and Towels

    We always place a hanger either on the back of the bathroom door or get creative on the bathroom walls. Remember, no guest wants to step too far out of the shower just to grab their towel. Make sure your hangers are a well-designed masterpiece.

    For a larger bathroom (more guests), drying racks may be filled or slow drying. In this case, we use a double rail rack.

    door towel hanger

    5. At The Very Least Provide Shampoo

    On the Airbnb amenities page for your listing, it only includes shampoo. Supplying anything more such as conditioner and body wash is up to you. Guests normally travel with small sample-sized shampoo bottles, but for longer vacations, they may want to refill.

    Our favorite amenity tip which makes your Airbnb bathroom look luxurious and costs less is to use a wall-mounted dispenser in your shower. You can keep shampoo, conditioner and body wash in the dispenser and it looks great in any bathroom.


    6. Bathroom Floor Mat For No Accidents

    The last thing you want is for your Airbnb guests to slip. When wet, bathroom floors get slippery and a floor mat will absorb excess water. Furthermore, you will save years of water damage by using a floor mat and that will save you money in replacement costs.

    If your bathtub or shower floor is in the same condition, place a shower mat down. Be sure to get floor mats that are washer friendly.

    floor mat

    7. Somewhere To Throw Garbage Out

    Each country has different cultures and standards. In some countries, recycling doesn’t exist. All our Airbnb guidelines mention where guests can throw out garbage and recycle.

    Furthermore, we always place instructions on the toilet bowl lid explaining what you can and can’t flush. Many guests flush unwanted items down the toilet which can clog it.

    Our time-saving tip is to place extra garbage bags at the bottom of each trash can, which prevents you from forgetting and speed up your cleaning process.


    Airbnb Bathroom

    What Are Optional Airbnb Bathroom Items?


    Keeping Your Airbnb Bathroom Clean

    Even if your Airbnb guests start with a clean place, they may accidentally spill something or want to tidy up a bit.. Give them that option with a broom, dustpan, and all-purpose cleaner.

    You would be surprised at how many guests clean during their stay and make your checkout cleaning faster.


    Makeup Remover So Your Towels Stay Unstained

    One of our first bad Airbnb experiences was having our guests wipe their makeup on our brand new white towel. Since then makeup has ruined a few more towels but providing makeup remover wipes will limit these events.

    Furthermore, makeup can ruin bedsheets and much more. Tuck extra makeup remover pads under your sink or your bathroom shelf.

    Airbnb bathroom

    Mosquito Repellent For The Outdoors

    If you live in a country where mosquitos are common then leave some repellent for common courtesy.


    First Aid Kit & Common Over The Counter Medication

    Travelers love to try new places and food, which could result in a minor injury or an allergic reaction. We stock all our Airbnb listings with a standard home first aid kit and Tylenol for headaches.


    Mirror For Getting Ready

    Whether your Airbnb guests come for work or a vacation, make sure your guests can do their makeup, put in contacts, or anything else their day/night entails. We have never been to an Airbnb or hotel without a bathroom mirror.

    However, having a mirror without adequate bathroom lighting is far too uncommon. One of our favorite tips to improve lighting is by increasing the wattage of your bathroom bulbs. Another option is installing a bathroom mirror with a backlit included.

    Airbnb bathroom mirror

    Shelving Unit For Extra Storage

    Finding an organized spot for extra bathroom supplies can be tough, especially with a small bathroom. During longer guests stay, a shelving unit is perfect for extra toiletries.

    For us, in most bathrooms, we see two spots of extra storage space. First, either under the sink with a vanity cabinet and second, above the toilet with a cabinet or wire shelf. Both of these methods can also double as a place for your Airbnb guests to store their personal bathroom belongings.


    Unique Ventilation Option In Your Airbnb Bathroom

    Having a good exhaust fan will prevent mold, keep your bathroom smelling fresh and lengthen the condition of your overall bathroom. We bet you have never heard of an exhaust fan that plays music. Neither had we until recently. We stayed at an Airbnb that had a Bluetooth speaker built into the exhaust fan allowing us to play music while showering. It was fantastic.

    Airbnb bathroom

    Toilet Plunger In Case Of Emergencies

    No guests want to tell you they plugged the toilet. Furthermore, no host wants to unclog a toilet. It makes for a very awkward conversation. Tuck a plunger behind your toilets.


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    Box Of Tissue Paper

    You never know if your guests will have allergies, catch a head cold or even the flu. Leave a box of tissues on top of the toilet.


    Drying Rack For Clothes & Towels

    Whether your guests just got home from the beach, exercised, or just don’t want their clothes to shrink in the dryer. Give your guests the option to dry everything freely. Furthermore, if your Airbnb listing is limited for the room, a collapsible drying rack works perfectly.

    Hair dryer

    A Complimentary Hair Dryer

    Having a hairdryer in your Airbnb bathroom is inexpensive and guests expect you to have one. We hang our hair dryers on the wall with a hanger clip or place it on our toilet wired shelves. Both are great ways to save room and hassle. My wife does the purchasing for the bathroom and buys affordable Revlon hair dryers.


    Nail Polish Remover

    On-top of removing nail polish, it is also great at cleaning up leather shoes, getting rid of ink stains, and cleaning minor scratches off your watch face.


    Outlet With A Motion Sensor Night Light

    The night light will guide any Airbnb guests on their first-night stay. Place one in the bathroom so your guests do not have to turn on any lights. For us, we also leave one plug-in nightlight in all our hallways and bathrooms which leaves a great impression for all our guests.

    outlet nightlight

    Tampons For Emergencies

    Tucking a few of these under the sink can save someone’s day while they search for a drugstore.


    Airbnb Bathroom Airbnb Freshener

    Being comfortable around your spouse can mean many things. One is the bathroom has no limits. A simple bottle of air freshener or outlet plugin freshener is appreciated.


    What Are Airbnb Toiletries?


    Airbnb toiletries are personal care items used for hygiene or grooming. Supplying toiletries to guests will increase their overall experience. Here is a list of some of the items we include in our Airbnb bathrooms:

    • Toothbrushes (unopened)
    • Toothpaste
    • Mouthwash
    • Floss
    • Toothpicks
    • Hairdryer
    • Towels
    • Hand towels
    • Bar soap
    • Liquid hand soap
    • Q-tips
    • Cotton balls
    • Toilet paper
    • Air freshener
    • Bathrobe
    • Feminine products
    • Disposable razors
    • Shaving cream
    • Aftershave (basic scent)
    • Shampoo
    • Conditioner
    • Scent-free hypoallergenic body lotion
    • Shower caps
    • Combs
    • Nail clippers
    • Nail file

    Final Thoughts

    Airbnb bathrooms can be confusing, especially when you have limited space. We have talked about ways you can improve your Airbnb and our top tricks we used in all our bathroom listings. You will be able to put all our suggestions together and impress any guest. Enjoy and happy hosting!