If you're managing Airbnb turnovers yourself (or managing your cleaner), here's the exact checklist we use for every changeover. Saves time, prevents bad reviews, and catches the things guests actually notice.

Kitchen (3 min)

• Wipe all countertops and hob — grease splatter is the #1 guest complaint

• Empty and wipe inside the bin, fresh liner

• Run a quick check: kettle descaled, fridge empty and wiped, dishwasher unloaded

• Restock: dish soap, sponge, bin liners, 2x tea bags, coffee, sugar, milk if you offer it

Bathroom (4 min)

• Scrub the shower screen — limescale in London water builds up fast

• Toilet bowl + behind the seat (guests check)

• Fresh towels folded hotel-style: bath towel, hand towel, flannel per guest

• Restock: toilet roll (always 2+), hand soap, a spare bin liner under the current one

Bedroom (3 min)

• Strip and remake with fresh linens — check mattress protector for stains

• Plump pillows, smooth the duvet, hospital corners if you're keen

• Clear all surfaces, wipe bedside tables, check under the bed

• Plug in phone charger on each side (this gets mentioned in reviews constantly)

Living Areas (2 min)

• Vacuum/mop all floors — pay attention to corners and under furniture

• Wipe remotes, light switches, and door handles (COVID made guests notice these)

• Straighten cushions, fold throws

• Check all lights work, replace dead bulbs

Final Sweep (3 min)

• Windows: open for 10 min during clean, close and lock before leaving

• Check all taps off, no drips

• Thermostat to a comfortable default (19-20°C)

• Lock up, photo the front door, send confirmation

Pro Tips for South London Specifically

• Parking: If you're in Brixton/Peckham, warn cleaners about CPZ times. A parking ticket wipes out the margin on a studio clean

• Victorian conversions: These old buildings collect dust like nothing else. Budget an extra 5-10 min for high ceilings and cornicing

• 90-day rule: If you're in Lambeth, Southwark, or Wandsworth, you're capped at 90 nights/year on Airbnb without planning permission. Track your nights — we've seen hosts get caught out

This is the standard we hold our cleaners to at TurnKey Cleans. If you want someone else handling this so you can focus on your hosting business, join our Host Hub — it's free.