Cleaning a short-term rental between guests: a step-by-step guide

First define the work window

Check the actual departure and next arrival time. Between them, not only cleaning is needed, but also checking, possible corrections and status transfer. If the window is too short, agree on priorities and a fallback scenario in advance rather than subtly reducing control.

Inspect the apartment after check-out

Before cleaning, go through the rooms and check for forgotten items, stains, breakages, odors and the condition of equipment. Take a photo of any important findings and pass them on to the manager. Do not confuse damage left by a guest with cleaning comments.

Clean by zone

Remove used linens, take out trash and clean rooms in the usual order. A single checklist allows employees not to miss zones when changing properties frequently. Pay special attention to contact surfaces, floors, kitchens and bathrooms.

• Bedroom: linens, surfaces, floors and wardrobes.
• Kitchen: sink, stove, refrigerator, dishes and garbage.
• Bathroom: plumbing, mirror, towels and hygiene products.
• Hallway: entrance, rug, mirror and keys.

Replace linen and towels

Check the kit with the capacity of the apartment and the standard of the property. Check textiles are clean and dry before placing. If the supply is not enough, immediately inform the person in charge: the lack of a towel is usually discovered after check-in.

Replenish supplies

Check toilet paper, soap, kitchen supplies and other items on the property's list. You should not rely on memory: apartments may have different equipment and minimum balances. Mark the deficit that needs to be replenished before the next cleaning.

Check technology and access

Check the operation of lights, water, air conditioning, Internet and household appliances within the approved instructions. Make sure the door, lock and key delivery method are ready for check-in. Please report the problem to the manager before changing the status of the property.

Take a photo of the result

Record the general appearance of the rooms and mandatory areas according to the standard. Photos should allow the inspector to assess the readiness of the property, and not just some beautiful details. When you notice, photograph the problem area large and from a distance so that it is clear where it is.

Submit the property for review

Mark the completed items, attach a photo and report any unresolved problems. The manager accepts the result or requests a specific correction. Only after acceptance the property should be marked ready for occupancy. This arrangement reduces the risk of premature “done” status.

Manage this step in Operly: Cleaning management.