Spring Cleaning Checklist: A Complete Guide for Vacation Rental Cleaning

Spring cleaning plays an important role in maintaining vacation rentals. It goes beyond regular housekeeping and involves a more thorough cleaning process. Spring brings pollen from trees, grasses, and other plants to which guests may be allergic, and seasonal allergies can significantly impact their stay. Spring cleaning mitigates the risk of allergic reactions and removes built-up dirt and grime to ensure guests have a pleasant and memorable stay. Here’s a spring cleaning checklist for vacation rentals to make sure every corner gets the attention it deserves:

1. Common Areas

To ensure guest comfort and satisfaction, it’s important to thoroughly clean common areas. These high-traffic areas, such as living rooms and dining rooms, are where guests spend much of their time. During spring cleaning, it’s important to remove dust, allergens, and other pollutants from these areas to promote a healthier environment for guests. Some essential tasks when cleaning common areas include:

• Dust all surfaces (furniture, shelves, lamps, decor, ceiling fans, etc.)
• Dust and wash baseboards
• Vacuum and shampoo carpets and rugs
• Mop and polish hard floors
• Vacuum upholstered items
• Clean windows and mirrors
• Remove stains from furniture and upholstery
• Organize decor items (books, magazines, trinkets, etc.)

2. Bedrooms

Guests spend roughly a quarter of their time in the bedroom during their stay. They need a space where they can unwind and recharge without worrying about their surroundings, so it’s essential to have clean and tidy bedrooms. Include these spring cleaning tasks in each bedroom:

• Vacuum under and behind all furniture and inside the closet
• Inspect mattresses and linens for stains and wear-and-tear, and replace as needed
• Sweep, mop, and polish hard floors
• Shampoo carpets and rugs
• Dust all surfaces (dressers, lamps, ceiling fans, window sills, etc.)
• Wipe out all drawers
• Dust, declutter, and organize closet shelves and walls
• Clean windows and mirrors
• Sanitize high-touch surfaces (doorknobs, light switches, drawer handles, etc.)
• Dust, declutter, and organize decor items

3. Bathrooms

Spring cleaning the bathrooms in vacation rentals is essential for hygiene and guest satisfaction. Bathrooms are high-touch areas that are prone to dirt, grime, and bacteria. Thoroughly cleaning bathrooms removes mold, mildew, and soap scum to create a fresh and inviting atmosphere for guests. Make sure these areas are addressed during spring cleaning:

• Scrub and disinfect sinks, toilets, showers, and tubs
• Scrub tile grout
• Remove hair from sink and shower drains
• Clean mirrors and windows
• Wipe down countertops and the interiors of cabinets and drawers
• Wash or replace towels
• Sanitize and organize bathroom supplies
• Replace shower curtains or wash shower doors
• Wash or replace shower mats
• Shampoo or replace rugs

4. Kitchen

The kitchen also requires careful attention during spring cleaning. Keeping this room clean and organized helps guests feel comfortable cooking and socializing in a vacation rental. Messes are common in kitchens, so it’s important to refresh this space every spring. Important tasks include:

• Clean and sanitize all appliances on countertops and in cabinets
• Degrease and sanitize the oven, stovetop, and range hood
• Wipe down all counters and backsplashes
• Sanitize the interior and exterior of the refrigerator
• Sweep and mop behind the oven and refrigerator
• Defrost and clean the freezer
• Wipe out the interiors of all cabinets and drawers
• Wash and organize utensils and dishes
• Wash or replace kitchen towels, mats, and rugs
• Sanitize and restock kitchen supplies

5. Entryway

In vacation rental cleaning, an often overlooked area is the entryway. However, cleaning this area is essential since it is the first thing guests see. A clean and tidy entryway ensures guests feel welcome and valued upon arrival. Include these steps during spring cleaning:

• Clean or replace the welcome mat
• Sweep and power wash walkways
• Dust and wash light fixtures
• Wipe down doors, windows, and window sills
• Wipe and sanitize front step railings
• Arrange lawn care services

6. Porch and Patio

The porch and patio are great places for guests to relax and spend time together during their stay. A clean and well-maintained outdoor area can make a stay more enjoyable. Here are tasks that need to be done during spring cleaning:

• Remove any debris or cobwebs
• Dust, wipe, and stage outdoor furniture
• Sweep and wash surfaces to remove debris and mold
• Wipe down planters and flower pots
• Water plants
• Wipe down doors, windows, and window sills
• Dust and sanitize beams and railings
• Sanitize outdoor game equipment
• Wash grills and propane tanks
• Rinse storage bins or racks
• Hose down fire pits, remove debris, and replace firewood
• Remove pool covers
• Arrange lawn care services

7. Safety and Maintenance Checks

A crucial part of ensuring guest well-being is performing safety and maintenance checks. This protects the property from damage and enhances guest safety. When performing safety and maintenance checks during spring cleaning, be sure to:

• Check fire extinguisher expiration dates, and replace if necessary
• Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms, and replace batteries as needed
• Clean out gutters and make sure downspouts are facing away from walls
• Inspect for issues like leaking pipes or faulty wires
• Clear clogged drains
• Change HVAC filters and test heating and cooling systems
• Check for drafts around doors and windows, and seal if necessary
• Lubricate door hinges and tracks

Spring cleaning for vacation rentals involves a lot more than just tidying up. It creates an exceptional guest experience that leaves guests satisfied. ResortCleaning plays an important role in streamlining cleaning tasks and schedules. With this professional housekeeping software, you can effortlessly schedule and track tasks, manage supplies, and communicate with your staff. Sign up for a demo today!