The Ultimate Airbnb Turnover Cleaning Checklist for Tennessee Hosts

Cleanliness is the number one factor in Airbnb guest reviews. One missed detail: a hair in the bathroom, a smudge on the mirror, stale linens: can tank your rating from 5 stars to 3. For hosts in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia, where competition for tourism dollars is growing, maintaining spotless turnover standards is non-negotiable.

At Peak Property Care, we've cleaned thousands of Airbnb turnovers across the Tri-Cities region. Here's the comprehensive checklist our teams use for every single turnover.

Kitchen

The kitchen gets the most scrutiny from guests. Start by emptying and wiping down the refrigerator inside and out. Check for any food left behind by previous guests. Wipe all countertops, the backsplash, and cabinet fronts. Clean the stovetop, oven interior (check for spills), and microwave inside and out. Run the dishwasher empty with a cleaning tablet if needed. Wash, dry, and put away all dishes and utensils. Wipe small appliances (coffee maker, toaster) and ensure the coffee maker has fresh supplies. Clean the sink and polish the faucet. Replace dish soap, sponge, and dish towels. Empty trash and replace the liner. Sweep and mop the floor, paying attention to corners and under the table.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms are where cleanliness failures are most unforgivable. Scrub the toilet inside and out, including the base and behind. Clean the shower/tub: scrub grout, remove any hair, check for soap scum and mildew. Wipe the vanity, sink, and faucet until they shine. Clean the mirror (streak-free). Wipe light switches, door handles, and towel bars. Replace all towels with freshly laundered sets. Restock toilet paper (leave at least 2 rolls), hand soap, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. Empty the trash. Mop the floor. Check the exhaust fan for dust.

Bedrooms

Strip all bedding and replace with freshly laundered sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers. Check the mattress pad for stains: replace if needed. Fluff and arrange pillows. Make the bed hotel-style with crisp corners. Dust all surfaces: nightstands, dressers, headboard, lamps. Wipe light switches and door handles. Check inside drawers and closets for items left behind. Vacuum the floor and under the bed. Check that all light bulbs work. Set the thermostat to a comfortable arrival temperature.

Living Areas

Vacuum all upholstered furniture and check between cushions for crumbs and lost items. Fluff throw pillows and fold blankets neatly. Dust all surfaces: coffee table, shelving, entertainment center, window sills. Clean the TV screen and organize remotes. Wipe light switches, door handles, and baseboards. Vacuum or mop all floors. Clean windows and sliding doors (inside). Straighten books, games, and decorative items.

Laundry & Linens

This is where many DIY hosts fall short. All linens should be washed in hot water with a quality detergent. Use white vinegar in the rinse cycle to remove odors and soften without leaving residue. Avoid fabric softener on towels: it reduces absorbency. Dry completely on high heat. Iron pillowcases and top sheets for that hotel-crisp feel. Inspect every item for stains: guests notice.

Final Walkthrough

Before leaving, do a complete walkthrough as if you're the arriving guest. Check that all lights work. Test the Wi-Fi and leave the password visible. Verify the lockbox or smart lock code is set. Check that the HVAC is set appropriately. Leave a welcome note or guidebook in a prominent spot. Take photos of each room for your records (this protects you against damage claims).

Frequently Asked Questions