Staying at an Airbnb as a guest can be a fun and exciting experience.
However, sometimes things don’t go as planned and the property you arrive at may not be as clean as expected.
This can be a disappointing and uncomfortable situation, especially if you’re paying good money for the rental.
Familiarizing yourself with Airbnb’s cleanliness policies and taking appropriate measures is very important to ensure a comfortable and pleasant experience.
In this article, we’ll give you some tips on what to do if you arrive at an unclean Airbnb.
Policies of Airbnb on Cleanliness
As a huge platform, Airbnb has a set of cleanliness policies that should be followed by every host.
The purpose of these policies is to ensure that guests are provided with clean and comfortable accommodations during their stays.
Let’s have a look at those policies:
Cleaning Guidelines and Resources for Every Property Host
Airbnb provides complete guidance and resources to each of its hosts on how to maintain and clean their properties.
This includes washing and cleaning all areas and ensuring that everything is free from dust, dirt, and other potential allergens.
All hosts are required to fulfill Airbnb’s cleaning guidelines. Otherwise, they may face penalties or removal from the platform.
Direct Contact with Airbnb Team
If a guest encounters cleanliness issues during their stay, they can contact Airbnb customer service directly.
Depending on the severity of the problems, Airbnb may offer a refund or rebooking policy. They may also offer alternative accommodations to the guests if the matter is outside their control.
Guests are responsible to complain within 72 hours after the discovery of any issue in the Airbnb properties.
Enhanced Cleaning Protocol
After the COVID-19 pandemic, Airbnb has extended its Cleaning Protocol. It provides detailed instructions for hosts to follow, clean, and disinfect their properties between guest stays.
This protocol includes guidelines on how to use personal protective equipment (PPE) on the property.
Additionally, every host should allow sufficient time for the property to air out before the arrival of the next guest.
Professional Cleaning Services
Every host can use professional cleaning services to help maintain a high standard of cleanliness and hygiene in their properties.
Hosts who use these cleaning services are responsible for ensuring that the cleaners follow all guidelines and protocols of Airbnb.
Cleaning Expectations of Airbnb from the Guests
Airbnb also expects their guests to leave the property in the same condition as they found it. Additionally, guests must have to follow any specific cleaning instructions provided by the host.
Any guest who does not comply with these expectations may be subject to penalties or negative reviews from the host.
Steps to Take When Arriving at an Unclean Airbnb
Overall, the key is to communicate clearly with the host and find a solution that works for both parties.
Here are a few steps through which you can ensure that your Airbnb stay is as clean as possible.
Contact the Host
The first step is to reach out to the host and let them know about the cleanliness issues.
Provide them with all the details about the areas that need attention. The host may be able to solve the issue immediately or provide a solution to make your stay more pleasant.
Record the Problem
You can take photos or videos of the areas that are not clean. This will use serve as evidence to share the exact situation with Airbnb. This can also help the host to understand your problem and take appropriate measures to resolve it.
Check the Property Reviews Carefully Before Booking
Take some time to check the review section of the property carefully before bookings. It will be useful to inspect your selected property for cleanliness and any other issues that may affect your stay.
By reading the reviews, you can identify any issues early and switch to another property.
Request a Refund
If the cleanliness issues are severe and the host is unresponsive to address them, you may go for a refund.
Contact Airbnb customer service and provide them with evidence of the issue, as well as your communication with the host.
They will investigate the matter and may offer you a refund or alternative options.
Consider Alternative Accommodations
If the cleanliness issues are not resolved to your satisfaction, you may have to consider finding alternative accommodations.
Airbnb has a policy that guarantees guests a certain level of cleanliness and comfort. But if the host is unable to meet these standards, you have the right to seek alternative options.
It’s also a good idea to have a backup plan in case something like this happens. As an example, research nearby hotels or other Airbnb properties that have good reviews for cleanliness.
Leave an Honest Review
After your stay, leave an honest and detailed review of your experience.
Be sure to include any issues you faced with the property in your review. It will help the host improve and other guests avoid similar problems in the future.
Additionally, Airbnb takes reviews seriously and uses them to hold hosts accountable for maintaining high standards of cleanliness.
Be Respectful of the Property and the Host
It is understandable to be upset if you arrive at an unclean Airbnb. But it’s also important to be respectful of the property and the host.
Avoid making a mess or causing damage, and discuss with the host calmly what works for both parties.
Remember that Airbnb is a platform based on mutual respect and trust. So treating everything with respect can go a long way toward resolving any issues that may arise.
Read the Cleaning Policy Before Booking
To avoid arriving at an unclean Airbnb property, guests should read the cleaning policy before booking.
Check if the host has a specific cleaning policy listed in their description and make sure it meets your expectations.
Additionally, guests can filter search results by “super host” or “cleanliness” ratings to find listings with high standards of cleanliness.
Consider to Book through the Super Hosts
Superhosts are Airbnb hosts with a record of providing exceptional hospitality and maintaining high standards of cleanliness in their properties.
When booking an Airbnb, consider looking for a Super host to increase the likelihood of having a positive experience.
Pack Your Cleaning Supplies
Guests can pack their cleaning supplies, such as disinfectant wipes, spray cleaner, and gloves. It will be helpful just in case of arriving at an unclean Airbnb property.
If the property is not up to your standards, you can clean the areas yourself to stay comfortable.
Conclusion
Cleanliness plays a big role in vacation rental properties. As a guest, everyone requires to feel safe, comfortable, and healthy while away from home.
By following the steps outlined in this article, guests can take action if they encounter an unclean Airbnb property.
As it is the right of guests to protect themselves from potential health hazards or discomfort.
Additionally, it’s important to remember that Airbnb has established cleanliness policies and procedures that hosts are required to follow.
Guests can report any cleanliness issues to customer service for resolution.
By working together to prioritize cleanliness and hygiene, Airbnb hosts can ensure that everyone has a positive and enjoyable experience.
