How Can Gold Coast Airbnb Hosts Schedule Long-Term Cleans?

How Can Gold Coast Airbnb Hosts Schedule Long-Term Cleans?

1. Start with Clear Communication

Before your guest even checks in, set the groundwork. During the booking process or in your confirmation message, please explain that regular cleaning is offered to maintain the property’s standard. Still, it will always be coordinated based on your preferences. Ask if they’d like weekly, fortnightly, or “on request” cleaning. This demonstrates professionalism and helps avoid any awkward misunderstandings later.

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2. Offer Flexible Cleaning Options

Every long-term guest is different; some prefer routine weekly cleans, while others are more private and only want service as needed. Allow guests to choose the frequency that suits them. Providing flexible options demonstrates that you respect their autonomy while ensuring the property remains in good condition. You might offer options like:

• Weekly cleans with fresh linen and consumables
• Light fortnightly cleans
• A “request when needed” option via message

Keep in mind that flexibility doesn’t mean lowering your standards; it means adapting to each guest’s comfort level.

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3. Agree on a Set Schedule (If Preferred)

Once preferences are discussed, lock in a schedule that works for both parties. For example, a guest may want a clean every Monday between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. Make a note of it and confirm the time the day before. During these cleans, include fresh linen, towel changes, kitchen wipe-downs, and bathroom sanitation. A predictable routine allows guests to plan around it and helps you maintain consistency.

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4. Respect Do Not Disturb (DND) Requests

Always honour a guest’s DND or privacy requests. If a guest requests not to be disturbed on certain days or during specific hours, ensure your cleaners are aware and adjust their schedules accordingly. Forcing cleaning access when not welcomed can damage trust and lead to negative reviews. Respect for personal space is especially important in long-term bookings where guests expect a sense of “home.”

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5. Maintain Open Communication Throughout

Check in periodically with long-term guests, every 7–10 days is a good rhythm, to ask if they need cleaning, fresh linen, or restocked supplies. Keep it casual and non-intrusive. A simple message like, “Would you like a refresh, clean or linen drop this week?” works well. This keeps lines of communication open without being pushy.

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6. Provide Cleaning Kits for Guest Use

Many long-term guests prefer to do their own light tidying. Support this by providing a simple, easy-to-use cleaning kit. Include items like:

• Surface spray
• Dishwashing liquid
• Sponge and cloths
• Broom and dustpan
• Vacuum (if space allows)
  This encourages cleanliness between professional cleans and reduces the chance of mess accumulating.

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7. Prioritise Common Areas and Touchpoints

When conducting partial or limited cleaning during long stays, focus on shared or high-use areas, such as kitchen benches, bathroom surfaces, doorknobs, remote controls, and switches. These touchpoints impact hygiene and comfort, but don’t invade private zones, such as bedrooms, unless the guest has given consent.

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8. Create a Feedback Loop

Encourage feedback after each clean or once every few weeks. Ask if the schedule is still working and whether the quality is meeting their expectations. This can be as simple as a one-line message or an automated check-in via your booking platform. Being open to feedback shows professionalism and improves guest satisfaction.

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9. Include Cleaning Policies in the Guest Handbook

Your digital or physical property guide should include a section on long-stay cleaning services. This sets expectations from day one and answers common questions like:

• “How do I request a clean?”
• “What day do cleaners usually come?”
• “Can I skip cleaning weeks?”
• “Where can I find extra cleaning supplies?”
  Having it in writing makes your process feel organised and reliable.

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Clean Without Overstepping

Long-term Airbnb guests on the Gold Coast expect both comfort and privacy. A strong cleaning plan doesn’t mean frequent or invasive service; it means knowing when and how to clean in a way that supports your guests’ experience without interrupting it. Clear communication, flexibility, and respect are your best tools to strike that balance.

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Next Article: Creating a Hygienic Bathroom Experience for AirBnB Guests

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