Reliable Cleaning and Maintenance for Your Short-Term Rental
🡐 Back to Resources | August, 2025 | Written by Kurt Russell
In short-term rentals, nothing impacts guest reviews more than cleanliness. Even the most beautifully designed property will struggle if guests find dust, stains, or broken fixtures. Add in frequent turnovers, and it becomes clear why a reliable cleaning and maintenance plan is essential for hosts who want to maximize occupancy and protect their property.
This guide explores how to build a cleaning and maintenance system that delivers five-star reviews while saving you time and stress.
Why Cleanliness Is Non-Negotiable
Guest expectations for STRs are higher than ever. Cleanliness consistently ranks as one of the top factors in Airbnb reviews — and even one bad comment can lower your rating and reduce bookings. Reliable cleaning not only improves reviews but also:
Increases repeat bookings — happy guests come back.
Protects your property — issues are caught early before they escalate.
Supports pricing power — spotless rentals justify premium nightly rates.
Want to see how design also supports reviews? Explore our Airbnb interior design styles guide.
Building a Reliable Cleaning System
1) Hire Professional Cleaners
Casual spot-cleaning isn’t enough for STRs. Work with cleaners experienced in vacation rental turnovers who understand guest expectations and can follow detailed checklists.
Learn how to recruit the right partners in our networking for property management guide.
2) Use Detailed Cleaning Checklists
Consistency is key. Provide a room-by-room checklist covering essentials like:
Fresh linens and towels
Sanitized kitchens and bathrooms
Vacuumed floors and dust-free surfaces
Restocked supplies (toiletries, coffee, trash bags)
Check our Airbnb essentials guide to know what supplies matter most.
3) Schedule Regular Deep Cleans
Beyond turnover cleaning, properties need quarterly or seasonal deep cleans: upholstery, carpets, vents, and outdoor spaces. Deep cleaning protects long-term value and prevents guest complaints.
Staying on Top of Maintenance
Cleaning goes hand-in-hand with maintenance. Each turnover is a chance to spot and address small issues before they become big problems.
Plumbing and fixtures — test sinks, showers, and toilets for leaks.
Appliances — ensure coffee makers, microwaves, and washing machines are in working order.
HVAC and climate systems — replace filters and test thermostats.
For a full framework, see our preventative maintenance plan guide.
Tech Tools That Help
Property management software (PMS) and apps can make scheduling and communication easier:
Assign cleaning tasks automatically after bookings
Send photo checklists for accountability
Track maintenance issues in real time
Want the right stack? Explore our guide to best STR software tools.
The Clear Stay Advantage
At Clear Stay Properties, we know reliable cleaning and maintenance are the foundation of five-star reviews. That’s why we:
Work with vetted, professional cleaning teams
Build detailed checklists for consistency
Schedule preventative maintenance to avoid costly surprises
Oversee guest communication and review management
By combining cleaning, maintenance, and dynamic pricing strategies, we ensure your property is guest-ready and revenue-optimized year-round.
The Takeaway
Cleanliness and maintenance aren’t just operational details — they are business drivers. Reliable systems keep guests happy, protect your property, and boost your long-term profitability.
👉 Ready to put your STR cleaning and maintenance on autopilot? Fill out the form below for your free consultation with Clear Stay Properties and see how we make hosting easier.
