Hosting pets in your Airbnb can be a great way to attract more guests, but it also means you'll need to pay extra attention to cleaning. Pets can bring joy, but they also bring hair, odours, and other messes. Fortunately, with a few simple steps, you can keep your rental clean and pet-friendly without too much hassle.
From setting clear rules and choosing the right cleaning products to investing in the right tools, this guide will help you how to handle cleaning for an airbnb with pets effectively.
With a little preparation, you can ensure your Airbnb stays fresh, welcoming, and ready for both pets and their owners.
How to Handle Cleaning for an Airbnb With Pets?
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Let’s take a look at how you can make cleaning for an Airbnb with pets easy and keep your space welcoming for all guests.
Set Expectations Early
Start by being clear from the beginning. Mention your pet policy in your Airbnb listing so guests know what’s allowed. Then, include detailed rules in your welcome guide or house manual.
Explain what types of pets are allowed, how many can stay, and if there are any breed or size limits. Let guests know which parts of the home are off-limits to pets, like sofas or beds, and whether pets can be left alone in the rental.
Also, clearly state any extra pet fees or cleaning charges. By setting expectations early, you help avoid confusion later—and reduce the chance of extra mess.
Choose Safe and Effective Cleaning Products
When pets are in your rental, safety matters just as much as cleanliness. Many regular cleaning products contain chemicals that are unsafe for animals. Ingredients like bleach, alcohol, and chlorine can be harmful—especially for cats and small dogs.
Instead, go for pet-safe cleaners or even make your own using everyday items like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. Homemade options work well and give you peace of mind.
Here are some recommended safe and effective cleaning options:
- All-purpose cleaner: Mix equal parts vinegar and water for a simple, pet-safe solution.
- Glass cleaner: Combine vinegar or lemon juice with water for streak-free windows.
- Stain remover: Make a paste with baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and lemon juice for tough stains.
Along with safe products, make sure to use tools that actually make cleaning easier. A good vacuum, a pet hair remover, and an odour eliminator can go a long way.
You’ll also find helpful laundry additives that dissolve pet hair on bedding and towels. With the right supplies, cleaning takes less time—and your rental stays in great shape.
Vacuum Regularly, Even Without Carpet
Even if your Airbnb doesn’t have carpet, vacuuming is still important. Pet hair, dust, and dirt can build up on tile, hardwood, or vinyl floors just as easily. A heavy-duty vacuum with strong suction and handy attachments makes it easier to clean floors, furniture, and hard-to-reach spots.
However, it’s also a great tool for refreshing soft items like pillows, rugs, and curtains. When done regularly, vacuuming helps keep your place looking and smelling clean between guests.
Use Air Purifiers to Control Odours and Allergies
Pets can leave behind smells and dander that affect guests, especially those with allergies. Using a good air purifier can make a big difference. Look for one with a strong filter system, including a pre-filter for pet hair and a HEPA filter to trap allergens. It helps keep the air fresh and comfortable for everyone.
You might also consider upgrading your HVAC system’s air filters. Some high-quality filters catch even tiny particles like smoke and bacteria, as well as dust and pet hair.
And while ozone machines are great at removing strong odours, be careful—they should only be used when the space is empty. After running one, air out the property thoroughly before letting anyone return.
Pick Furniture That’s Easy to Clean
Not all furniture is created equal—especially when pets are involved. To make cleaning easier, choose pieces made from strong, tightly woven fabrics. Materials like microfiber, velvet, or outdoor-grade fabric are durable and hold up well against pet claws and fur.
Even better, use removable slipcovers. They protect your furniture, are easy to wash, and let you change up the look of your rental without much effort. This small change can save you from bigger cleaning jobs or costly repairs in the future.
Let Guests Know What They Should Do
Cleaning becomes a lot easier when guests pitch in. Let pet owners know what you expect during and after their stay. For example, ask them to wipe up any spills quickly—especially water bowls or pet messes—and to clean up after their pets outdoors.
It’s also helpful to guide them on where to place pet items like litter boxes or pee pads. Encourage guests to remove visible pet hair and to report any damage with photos. These small requests can go a long way in keeping your rental clean and guest-ready.
Conclusion
Keeping your Airbnb clean while hosting pets doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By setting clear expectations, using pet-safe cleaning products, and investing in the right tools, you can maintain a fresh and welcoming space for your guests. Regular cleaning and a little help from your guests can also make a big difference.
Moreover, if you’re looking for professional assistance to keep your Airbnb spotless and pet-friendly, Perfect Clean is here to help.
Reach out today and let us handle the cleaning so you can focus on providing a great experience for your guests.
