Step-by-Step Guide to Time-Saving Cleaning Strategies for Airbnb Hosts

If you’re an Airbnb host in Los Angeles, you know the hustle never stops. Whether you’re managing one unit or multiple properties, keeping them clean and guest-ready can feel like a full-time job. I’ve been in the cleaning industry for a few years as well as being an Airbnb Superhost, and I’ve seen firsthand how small tweaks in your routine can save hours. In this guide, I’ll share the most effective, time-saving cleaning strategies so you can keep your Airbnb spotless without spending all day scrubbing. These tips come from the owners of Airbnb cleaning services as well as from first-hand experience.

Step 1: Pre-Cleaning Preparation – Work Smarter, Not Harder

Ever walked into a messy rental after a guest checkout and didn’t know where to start? I’ve been there, and it’s overwhelming. The key to fast cleaning is preparing before you even pick up a mop.

Stock Up on the Right Supplies

Having the right tools makes all the difference. Keep a well-stocked cleaning caddy with essentials:

Multi-surface disinfectant spray
Microfiber cloths (they clean better and faster than paper towels!)
Magic erasers (for those mystery scuff marks guests always seem to leave)
Pre-moistened disinfecting wipes (for quick wipe-downs of high-touch areas)
A lightweight vacuum and professional microfiber mop
Spray glass cleaner (please skip Windex)

Declutter Before Cleaning

Pick up trash, remove used linens, and straighten up before you start scrubbing. You’ll move faster if everything is in its place before deep cleaning.

Step 2: Follow the “Top-to-Bottom, Left-to-Right” Method

One of the biggest mistakes I see hosts make is cleaning in a scattered way—wiping a table here, vacuuming there, then going back to wipe something else. This wastes time! Instead, use the top-to-bottom, left-to-right system:

Start high: Dust shelves, ceiling fans, and light fixtures first.
Move down: Wipe countertops, tables, and other mid-level surfaces.
Finish low: Vacuum and mop floors last.
Work left to right: Move in one direction through each room to stay efficient.

This method prevents you from knocking dust and dirt onto already-cleaned areas.

Step 3: Speed-Cleaning Each Room

Different areas of your rental require different cleaning strategies. Let’s break them down.

Kitchen (30 Minutes Max!)

I once spent 2 hours scrubbing a kitchen after a guest who loved to cook but didn’t love to clean. Lesson learned: soak first, clean second. Here’s how to get it done fast:

Spray counters and the stove first—let the cleaner do the work while you clean elsewhere.
Load dishes into the dishwasher immediately.
Wipe all surfaces (including the fridge handle and cabinet knobs).
Take out the trash and replace the bag.
Make sure the oven is clean. If not, add extra time to the cleaning.
Check if toaster tray is empty from bread crumbs.

Bathroom (20-25 Minutes)

Bathrooms can get nasty fast, but they don’t have to take forever to clean.

Apply toilet bowl cleaner first—let it sit while you clean mirrors and sinks.
Use clean microfiber for spotless sink and counter cleanup.
Use a squeegee and magic eraser on the shower walls to prevent soap scum buildup.
Replace towels and refill toiletries.

Living Room & Bedrooms (10-20 Minutes Total)

Making a bed quickly is an art! Try the “hospital corner” method for tight, crisp sheets. Other tips:

Fluff pillows and straighten furniture to make the space look fresh.
Vacuum rugs and floors efficiently—pay special attention to under the bed area – that’s where dust accumulates most of the time.
Check wardrobe area and nightstand drawers for forgotten guest items—nothing worse than getting a frantic call about a missing phone charger.

Step 5: Final Inspection & Guest-Ready Touches

Before leaving, do a five-minute walk-through. This is your last chance to catch anything you might have missed. Here’s what to check:

Are all surfaces wiped and dust-free?
Are there any odd smells? (Open windows or use a neutralizing spray if needed.)
Are all lights, TV remotes, and appliances working?
Check under all beds, all drawers and make sure that dishwasher empty.
Make sure that all light switches are clean and there are no scuffs on walls.

Conclusion: Work Smarter, Not Harder

Cleaning your Airbnb doesn’t have to eat up your entire day. By using efficient strategies—like prepping in advance, following a structured cleaning order, and leveraging time-saving tools—you can keep your rental spotless without the stress.

The goal is simple: faster cleaning, happier guests, and better reviews. Implement these steps today, and you’ll notice the difference in both your schedule and your ratings!

Otherwise, you may always look for best Airbnb cleaning services in Los Angeles. There are plenty of good reliable services that will take some of the burden off your shoulders.

Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash