Holiday Let Cleaning 101: A Host’s Guide
With over 5 years in the hospitality industry, we’ve learned a thing or two about keeping holiday lets clean and guest-ready.
If you’re just starting out as a host, these tips will help you keep your property in top shape. After all, cleanliness is one of the first things guests look for, and it can really make or break their experience.
Here are 7 simple tips from HNFC Stays experts for holiday let cleaning to make sure your space is always shining.
1. Ensure Spotless Cleaning
Give your vacation rental the VIP treatment: wipe down surfaces, vacuum the floors, give the bathroom some extra TLC, check the fridge and take out the bins.
Don’t forget to examine the hidden or hard-to-reach spots – check under the bed and behind the sofa cushions for any wrappers, hair ties, and other bits and bobs that guests often leave behind.
Thorough holiday let cleaning helps create that five-star impression.
2. Have a Basic Supplies Checklist
Make sure your holiday let is stocked up on the essentials and keep a list of must-have items that need occasional topping up – like toilet paper, soap, shower gel, and kitchen staples such as coffee, tea, and sugar.
It’s the little touches that guests remember, and they can really set your vacation rental apart.
3. Change Linen, Always
Fresh sheets are non-negotiable. Even if the bed looks untouched, always change the linen between guests.
Go for quality bedding that not only feels good but also complements the look of your short-term rental.
And keep an eye out for any stains, holes, or discolourations after washing: it’s all about maintaining that pristine look.
4. Keep an Inventory Checklist
An inventory list can be a lifesaver, especially when you hire a cleaning service.
No need to list every spoon and plate, but noting down key items – like the number of TV remotes or that fancy frother – can save you hassle later on.
5. Check for Any Damages
Before your next guests arrive, do a quick walk-through to catch any damage. Is the TV working? Does the shower run smoothly? Any mystery stains on the sofa?
A consistent check-in/check-out routine helps you stay in control and avoids unwanted surprises – a key part of smooth vacation rental cleaning.
6. Choose a Reliable Cleaning Team
As your hosting journey goes on, you might want to outsource the work. A dependable cleaning team can make or break your bookings, especially during peak season or tight turnovers.
When guests expect hotel-level cleanliness, rushing around last minute just won’t cut it. That’s when a reliable cleaning service can make all the difference.
7. Make Use of Competitive Rates
Do your homework if you decide to go for a cleaning service. Newcastle, like many UK cities, has several companies offering the services you need.
Rates can vary depending on property size and requirements, so make sure you’re clear on what’s included. A good holiday let cleaning service will offer flexible, transparent pricing that fits your short-term rental’s needs.
Looking for a Local Cleaning Service?
At HNFC Stays, we take vacation rental cleaning seriously. With our reliable in-house professional cleaning service in Newcastle & South Shields and our competitive rates, we’ve got your back.
If you’re a property manager or a holiday let owner, feel free to get in touch with our friendly HNFC team. We’ll tailor a quote to your property’s parameters and needs and help you shine in the competitive SA market.
Let’s elevate your cleaning game to the next level, together!
Our cleaning team:
✅ Wipes, vacuums, and cleans all the surfaces for a 5-star guest experience
✅ Does the linen and changes bedding
✅ Flags low levels of essentials (coffee, soap, etc.)
✅ Checks the property against the inventory checklist
✅ Does the damages inspection
✅ Provides a photo report
✅ Re-stocks basic supplies*
✅ Holds an additional set of keys in case of emergencies*
*additional services, upon request
Remember, it’s not only about adhering to hygiene standards – it’s about showing your guests you genuinely care. A clean, well-maintained, and stocked-up short-term rental sets the stage for a comfortable and memorable stay.
Plus, keeping tabs with inventory lists helps you stay organised and hold guests accountable in case of any damages.
