How Airbnb Hosts Find the Perfect Cleaning Crew

How many cleaning crews does a host have to go through to find the perfect one? As many as it takes. 

As an Airbnb host, one of the most critical aspects of maintaining a high-quality guest experience is ensuring that your property is impeccably clean. However, finding the right cleaning company or crew can be a CHALLENGE. 

Many hosts have faced the frustration of dealing with cleaning issues, from inconsistent quality to unprofessional behavior. The process of finding a reliable cleaning service can feel like kissing a lot of frogs before finding your perfect prince. 

But don’t worry! In this blog post, we will help you navigate this challenge and find the cleaning crew that meets your high standards.

The cleaners need to show up

A clean property is essential for maintaining positive guest reviews and ensuring repeat bookings. Guests expect a spotless environment, and any lapses in cleanliness can result in negative reviews that impact your reputation and future bookings. Therefore, finding a cleaning crew that consistently shows up on time, every time and delivers a perfect clean job is crucial.

Don’t settle

Many hosts fall into the trap of settling for just "okay" cleaners. However, settling for sub-par cleaning services can lead to recurring issues, dissatisfaction, and additional stress. It’s essential to hold out for a cleaning crew that meets your standards, even if it means going through several options to find the right one. Remember, it’s okay to let go of a cleaning crew that isn’t working out and continue your search until you find the perfect fit. Your cleaning crew should be working HARD to keep you as a client because there are so many other cleaners out there that would love your business. 

How to vet a cleaning crew

Finding the right cleaning crew involves more than just choosing the first company you come across. Follow these steps to help vet cleaning services effectively:

1. Ask the right questions
   When interviewing potential cleaning companies or crews, ask vacation rental specific questions that will reveal their awareness of the industry, along with their reliability and professionalism. 

Here are some key questions to consider asking:

• What is your experience with cleaning vacation rental properties?

• Can you provide references from other Airbnb or short-term rental hosts?

• How do you handle last-minute cleaning requests?

• What is your approach to using eco-friendly cleaning products?

• Are you fully insured and bonded?

Pay close attention to their answers. Insincere or evasive responses might indicate a lack of professionalism and that they’re hiding something.

1. Request references
   Ask for references from other clients, particularly those who have similar properties to yours. Contact these references to inquire about their experiences with the cleaning crew. Positive feedback from other hosts can be a strong indicator of a reliable service.

2. Understand their availability and flexibility
   Availability and flexibility are crucial, especially when dealing with the unpredictable nature of vacation rentals. Ensure that the cleaning crew can accommodate last-minute cleanings and has a system in place for managing urgent requests. This is essential for maintaining high standards and avoiding issues when guests check in.

3. Vet their reviews and online presence
   Check online reviews and ratings of the cleaning companies you’re considering. Look for patterns in feedback—consistently positive reviews are a good sign, while recurring complaints may signal potential issues. Additionally, review their website or social media profiles to gauge their professionalism and services offered.

4. Check their licensing and insurance
   Verify that the cleaning company is a licensed business in your city or state. This ensures they operate legally and adhere to local regulations. Additionally, confirm that they have proper insurance and bonding to protect you from potential liabilities related to their work.

5. Evaluate their employee vetting process
   Inquire about how the cleaning company vets its employees. A reputable company should conduct background checks and ensure that their staff are trustworthy and reliable. After all, they’ll have ful access to your beloved property and with that comes a high level of trust and responsibility. This step is crucial for maintaining a secure environment for your property and guests.

Where to find your next cleaning crew

Finding a cleaning crew can be done through various channels, but here are some of the most effective places to look first:

• Airbnb Host Facebook Groups: Many Airbnb host groups on Facebook have members who advertise their cleaning services to hosts like you. Engaging in these groups can help you find recommendations and reviews from fellow hosts.

• Referrals from Other Hosts: Ask other hosts in your network for recommendations. If you have peers who also operate vacation rentals, they might have valuable insights into reliable cleaning services they use.

• Local Business Listings: Check local business directories and websites for cleaning services in your area. Many companies list their services and offer introductory deals to attract new clients, but make sure they have experience with vacation rental properties.

Negotiate and secure the best cleaning crew

Cleaning companies often compete for your business, especially if you’re in a competitive market. Use this to your advantage by negotiating terms and ensuring you’re getting the best value for your money. Be firm about your expectations and standards, and don’t hesitate to switch to another provider if your current crew isn’t meeting your needs.

Finding the perfect cleaning crew for your Airbnb property is crucial for maintaining high standards and ensuring guest satisfaction. By asking the right questions, checking references, understanding availability, and vetting online reviews, you can find a reliable cleaning service that meets your needs. 

Remember, it’s okay to move on from a cleaning crew that isn’t working out. Your goal is to find a team that delivers consistent, high-quality results.

Maintaining a sparkling clean property is a significant aspect of successful hosting, and with the right cleaning crew, you can enhance your guests' experience, receive positive reviews, and enjoy a stress-free hosting journey.

Happy Hosting!

Rachel & Jason