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Airbnb has become a popular alternative to traditional hotel stays. It allows travelers to experience a more authentic and affordable stay in a local neighborhood.
One question that has often been debated among Airbnb hosts and guests is whether or not hosts should provide toilet paper.
Some guests expect to have all the necessary amenities provided during their stay, including toilet paper. In contrast, some hosts argue that it’s the guests’ responsibility to bring their supplies.
In this guide, we will explore the arguments for and against hosts providing toilet paper, as well as alternative solutions for meeting the needs of both hosts and guests.
Arguments for Hosts to Provide Toilet Paper
The question of whether Airbnb hosts should provide toilet paper is a contentious one, with valid arguments on both sides. Here are some key points the host should give toilet arguments:
Expectations of Guests
Many guests expect the host to provide all necessary amenities during their stay, including toilet paper.
Providing toilet paper is seen as a basic level of hospitality and is often expected as part of the overall experience.
Guests who arrive at an Airbnb and find no toilet paper can be disappointed. They may even write a negative review of their experience.
To provide a good and memorable experience for guests, many hosts choose to provide toilet paper. Also, to meet the expectations of their guests.
Health and Hygiene Reasons
Providing toilet paper is a matter of health and hygiene for guests. Not having access to toilet paper can lead to unsanitary conditions, especially for traveling people who may not have their supplies.
Providing toilet paper is a simple way for hosts to ensure their guests are comfortable and healthy during their stay.
Cost-Effectiveness
Providing toilet paper can also be a cost-effective way to ensure guests have a positive experience.
While the cost of supplying toilet paper may seem small, not providing it can lead to negative reviews and lower ratings. It can potentially impact future bookings.
Additionally, guests who arrive at an Airbnb without toilet paper may be forced to purchase their supplies. Which can be more expensive than if they had brought their own.
In the long run, providing toilet paper can be a cost-effective way for hosts. It will ensure that their guests have a positive experience and are more likely to return in the future.
Arguments Against Hosts Providing Toilet Paper
While some guests expect that all necessary amenities will be provided during their stay, there are also valid arguments against hosts providing the items.
Some hosts may have personal preferences or feel the guests are responsible for bringing their supplies.
Here are a few valid points against the host providing toilet paper:
Personal Preferences
Some hosts may have personal preferences preventing them from providing their guests with toilet paper. For example, some hosts may prefer to use environmentally-friendly or alternative options.
Such as bidets or reusable clothes and may not provide toilet paper. Additionally, some hosts may not want to be responsible for delivering supplies to their guests. The host may prefer to leave it up to the guests.
Extra Cost and Burden for Hosts
Providing toilet paper can also be an extra cost and burden for hosts. The cost of supplying toilet paper for hosts who have multiple guests staying on their property can add up over time.
Additionally, some hosts may need help keeping their toilet paper well-stocked, especially if they have back-to-back bookings.
For these reasons, some hosts may choose not to provide toilet paper, which can be an added expense and inconvenience.
Responsibility of Guests to Bring Their Supplies
Some hosts argue that it is the responsibility of guests to bring their supplies, including toilet paper.
Hosts may feel that guests should be prepared for their stay and get all the necessary supplies, including toilet paper.
Also, hosts may think it is not their responsibility to provide guests with items such as toilet paper. Especially if they have not explicitly stated that they would provide it.
For these reasons, some hosts may choose not to provide toilet paper, as they feel the guests must bring their own.
Alternative Solutions
While the debate over whether Airbnb hosts should provide toilet paper continues, alternative solutions can accommodate the needs and preferences of both hosts and guests.
These solutions can compromise guests’ expectations of all necessary amenities. Also, with hosts’ concerns over the added cost and responsibility of providing toilet paper.
Providing a Starter Pack
One alternative solution for hosts who do not want ongoing toilet paper supplies is to provide a “starter pack” for guests.
It could include a small amount of toilet paper and other basic amenities such as soap and shampoo.
It allows guests to access these items when they first arrive but requires them to bring their supplies for their stay.
It can be a cost-effective solution for hosts looking to provide some level of hospitality without incurring ongoing costs.
Including Toilet Paper in the Cleaning Fee
Another alternative solution is to include the cost of toilet paper in the cleaning fee. Guests would pay a one-time fee for all the necessary supplies, including toilet paper, when they book their stay.
It can be a convenient solution for hosts, as it eliminates the need for them to restock their supply of toilet paper constantly.
Additionally, guests may be okay with paying a small fee for these supplies, especially if they have access to them during their stay.
Making Guests Aware of the Policy Beforehand
Hosts can also inform guests of their toilet paper policy beforehand. Either through the listing description or a message sent before arrival.
It allows guests to make an informed decision about whether they want to bring their supplies or pay a fee for them.
Additionally, informing guests of the policy beforehand can help reduce the number of negative reviews and complaints, as guests will know what to expect when they arrive.
Host Requirements
Aside from guest expectations, health and hygiene reasons, and cost-effectiveness, here are some solid points as to why hosts should provide toilet paper:
Positive guest experience: Providing guests with toilet paper can create a positive and memorable experience. It shows that the host cares about their guests’ comfort and well-being and sets the property apart from others.
Professionalism: Providing toilet paper is a professional and standard practice in the rental industry. Hosts who provide it are seen as responsible and attentive, which can enhance their reputation and increase demand for their property.
Airbnb requires hosts to provide basic amenities such as towels, linens, pillows, hand and body soap, including toilet paper.
It will ensure a comfortable stay for the guest. Therefore, the host should follow this requirement to keep customers coming back.
Conclusion
Whether Airbnb hosts should provide toilet paper is complex, with arguments on both sides.
To accommodate the needs and preferences of both hosts and guests, alternative solutions, such as giving a starter pack, including the cost of toilet paper in the cleaning fee, or making guests aware of the policy beforehand can be considered.
Ultimately, whether to provide toilet paper is up to each host and should be made based on their circumstances and preferences.
Overall, providing guests with toilet paper can impact future bookings, as the guest will leave a positive review of their experience.
