Airbnb Turnover Cleaning Checklist for Massachusetts Hosts

Before you start: set up for fast turnovers

• Write the checklist for your property. Generic checklists miss the things guests notice in your listing: the throw pillows on the couch, the coffee station, the way towels are folded.
• Keep a locked owner's closet. Spare linens, paper goods, toiletries and cleaning supplies on site save a trip on every turnover.
• Take reference photos. A photo of each room as it should look at check-in is the fastest way to keep every reset the same.
• Agree on reporting. Decide how damage, missing items and low supplies get reported to you, and how fast.

Room-by-room turnover checklist

Entry and living areas

• Remove anything guests left behind and set aside personal items for the host
• Dust surfaces, shelves, TV stand and décor
• Wipe light switches, door handles, remotes and the thermostat
• Straighten furniture, cushions and throws to their staged positions
• Vacuum rugs and upholstery as needed; vacuum and mop hard floors

Kitchen

• Wash, dry and put away dishes; check the dishwasher is empty
• Clean counters, backsplash, sink and faucet
• Wipe appliance fronts and handles; clean the microwave inside
• Check the refrigerator and remove guest food per your house rules
• Restock coffee, tea, dish soap, sponges and paper towels
• Empty trash and recycling and replace bags

Bathrooms

• Clean and sanitize toilet, sink, shower or tub, and fixtures
• Remove hair from drains, floors and corners
• Clean mirrors and glass
• Replace towels and bath mat; stage towels as shown in your listing
• Restock toilet paper, soap, shampoo and any amenities

Bedrooms

• Strip beds and check mattress protectors for stains
• Make beds with fresh linens, styled the same way every time
• Dust nightstands, headboards and lamps; check under beds and in drawers
• Check closets for hangers and guest items

Final walk-through

• Compare each room to its reference photo
• Check for damage, stains or anything broken, and report it
• Set the thermostat and lighting the way you want guests to find them
• Lock up and confirm the property is ready

Massachusetts seasonal notes

SeasonWhat to add to turnovers

Summer (coastal and South Shore rentals)

Sand at entries and in showers, outdoor furniture and grills, beach towels, more frequent back-to-back changeovers

Fall

Leaves tracked inside, pollen on sills, closing seasonal properties

Winter

Salt and slush at the door, boot trays and mats, extra floor care

Spring

Opening properties after the winter with a deep clean, pollen on windows and surfaces

Planning turnover time

How long a turnover takes depends on the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, whether laundry happens on site, how the previous guests left the property, and how much time sits between check-out and check-in. Tight same-day windows are easier when supplies and linens are already on site and the checklist is clear.

When to bring in a professional

If you host often, have more than one listing, live far from the property or simply want your evenings back, a turnover cleaning service takes the scheduling and the work off your plate. AMH Pro Services provides Airbnb turnover cleaning for hosts in Massachusetts, including Cambridge and the South Shore.