Starting at the end of next month, guests using Airbnb accommodations will encounter reduced cleaning responsibilities before checking out. The popular short-term rental platform has implemented revised guidelines limiting the cleaning tasks hosts can request from guests. These updated rules will affect bookings made on or after November 20.
Under the new policy, hosts are urged to exercise reasonableness across various aspects. Notably, hosts are no longer permitted to assign tasks that require significant effort or time, or are typically handled by professional cleaners. Such tasks include changing bed linens, taking out trash to offsite locations, or cleaning and storing used dishes. The adjustment ensures that Airbnb’s cleaning fee covers only basic tidying between guests, and hosts are prohibited from charging guests for unfinished cleaning tasks on the checkout list.
The issue of Airbnb cleaning responsibilities has been a longstanding subject of contention. Hosts have shared anecdotes about guests leaving behind untidy spaces, while social media platforms feature videos showcasing the aftermath of guest stays. Meanwhile, guests have voiced complaints about paying cleaning fees and being tasked with cleaning duties themselves.
Makarand Mody, an associate professor at Boston University’s School of Hospitality Administration, highlighted the discrepancy between cleaning fees and guest cleaning expectations, emphasizing the importance of aligning guest experiences with hotel standards.
In addition to cleaning guidelines, hosts are barred from limiting the use of advertised amenities, imposing fines on guests, or adding new rules post-booking. House rules, including check-in and check-out times, smoking policies, pet regulations, noise restrictions, guest limits, and photography guidelines, must be clearly outlined in the listing at the time of booking.
While hosts can introduce reasonable requests that are subject to evaluation by Airbnb, the company aims to maintain flexibility by leaving the definition of “reasonable” open-ended. This approach acknowledges the unique nature of each property and allows for context-based requests such as water conservation measures or wildlife protection protocols.
The enforcement and reception of these new rules by hosts remain to be seen, with expectations that Airbnb will balance host satisfaction with guest needs. The company’s strategic vagueness in defining reasonableness is perceived as a means to provide hosts with autonomy while ensuring guest-centric experiences.