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Holiday cottage cleaning between guests: a professional checklist
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Holiday cottage cleaning between guests: a professional checklist

·rural tourismchecklist

In rural tourism, cleanliness is the factor that most impacts guest reviews. A bad review due to poor hygiene can sink an accommodation’s reputation on booking platforms. This checklist will help you ensure every guest finds the property in impeccable condition.

Common areas and living room

Start by ventilating the entire house, opening windows for at least 15 minutes. While airing, remove rubbish, check that no items have been left behind by previous guests and ensure all furniture is in its place.

Vacuum or sweep all floors, including under sofas and furniture. Mop with a product suited to the floor type. Clean all surfaces: tables, shelves, picture frames, light switches, door handles and remote controls. Shake cushions and throws, and check textiles for stains.

Kitchen

The kitchen requires thorough cleaning because it is where shortcomings are most noticeable. Clean the oven, microwave, fridge and dishwasher inside and out. Check that no food remnants remain in any corner.

Scrub the worktop, hob and sink with disinfectant. Clean cabinet exteriors and check that crockery, cutlery and utensils are complete and clean. Restock welcome items if you offer them: oil, salt, coffee or whatever your accommodation includes.

Bedrooms

Remove all bed linen and put it in the wash. Lay out clean, pressed linen. Check the mattress for stains and treat if necessary. Clean bedside tables, lamps, wardrobes inside and out, and window frames.

Vacuum under beds, where the most dust accumulates. Check that hangers are in place and drawers are empty and clean.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms are the most critical area. Disinfect the toilet, shower or bath, washbasin and bidet. Clean mirrors, taps and shower screens until they shine. Check tile grout and treat with limescale remover if there are calcium deposits.

Restock clean towels, toilet paper, soap and any amenities you offer. Check that drains work properly and there are no accumulated hairs.

Exterior and additional areas

If the property has a terrace, porch or garden, sweep and clean outdoor furniture. Empty ashtrays, collect rubbish and check that exterior lights work. If there is a barbecue, clean it thoroughly. If there is a pool, check the water condition and clean the basin and surrounding area.

Details that make the difference

Guests value the details: a pleasant scent on arrival, a comfortable temperature, a small welcome touch. Use a mild air freshener or essential oil diffuser. Switch on the heating or air conditioning before arrival depending on the season. And spend a couple of final minutes doing a walkthrough with a guest’s eye.

A printed checklist for your cleaning team ensures no point is forgotten and maintains a consistent quality standard, regardless of who carries out the cleaning.