Who gets the Airbnb Cleaning Fee?
The Airbnb cleaning fee is a one-time charge for preparing the space before a new guest arrives. Unlike the nightly rate, which is charged per night, the cleaning fee applies once per reservation—whether you stay for one night or ten. But what exactly does this fee cover, and why do some listings charge more than others?
Purpose of the Fee
The cleaning fee compensates the person or team responsible for readying the property between guests. This can include vacuuming, disinfecting surfaces, washing linens, replenishing toiletries, and making sure the rental is spotless when you arrive.
Cost Factors
Several elements can influence the cleaning fee:
- Property Size and Amenities: A two-bedroom cottage generally costs less to clean than a large villa with a pool or hot tub.
- Location: In high-cost-of-living areas or large cities, professional cleaning rates may be higher.
- Special Requirements: Hosting pets or large groups can mean more extensive cleaning, which may lead to a higher fee.
Why It’s Not a “Hidden” Fee
Although some guests view the cleaning fee as an unexpected add-on, Airbnb clearly displays it at checkout, separate from the nightly rate. If you’re unsure about what it covers, you can always ask the host for more details.
One-Time vs. Recurring Expense
Unlike a deposit that might be refunded or daily housekeeping charges in hotels, an Airbnb cleaning fee is paid only once per stay. This can make longer stays more cost-effective, since you pay the same fee whether you stay a single night or a full week.
Understanding how the cleaning fee works—and what it covers—helps guests plan their travel budget and gives hosts a fair way to maintain their property’s cleanliness.
Who Sets the Cleaning Fee on Airbnb?
Airbnb doesn’t set cleaning fees; each host determines their own amount. Here’s what hosts usually consider when deciding:
Host’s Role and Considerations
Hosts look at factors like property size, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and whether they handle cleaning themselves or hire professionals. A larger home requires more time and resources than a smaller studio, and local costs for labor and supplies can also influence the fee.
Local Market and Competition
Cleaning fees can vary by region. In cities where cleaners charge more per hour, fees might be higher. Hosts also pay attention to what nearby listings charge, aiming to remain competitive without losing money on upkeep.
Amenities and Special Circumstances
Extra features such as pools, hot tubs, or outdoor spaces typically require more frequent or detailed cleaning. Similarly, properties welcoming pets or large groups might need additional care between reservations, leading to a higher fee.
Overall, hosts aim to balance the need for a clean, welcoming rental with the goal of offering reasonable rates. A clear, fair cleaning fee helps ensure both host and guests feel comfortable with the arrangement.
Who Actually Receives the Cleaning Fee?
If you’re curious where your money goes when you pay the cleaning fee, the answer is fairly straightforward: it goes to the host or whoever manages cleaning. Here’s how it can work:
Host or Property Manager
Some hosts handle cleaning themselves, using the fee to cover supplies and compensate for their time. Others rely on a property manager who schedules cleanings or does the cleaning. In either case, the fee covers real expenses and labor. Professional cleaning companies in Utah receive the cleaning fee when doing the cleaning turnovers.
Professional Cleaning Services
Hosts who contract professional cleaners often use the cleaning fee to pay those services directly. In these arrangements, a small portion might go to the host for administrative costs, but most of it covers the professional cleaners’ rates. For Airbnb cleaning in Park City, Airbnb turnovers in Salt Lake City or even cleanings in Utah County, we have you covered.
Co-Hosts and Team Members
Some hosts work with co-hosts or staff who handle tasks like laundry and restocking essentials. In these cases, the cleaning fee may go to multiple people who help maintain the property.
Essentially, your cleaning fee supports keeping the rental in great condition, ensuring a comfortable stay from check-in to checkout.
How Is the Cleaning Fee Collected?
Airbnb automates most of the cleaning-fee process:
Booking Process
When guests book, they see a detailed price breakdown, which includes the nightly rate, taxes, Airbnb’s service fees, and the cleaning fee. Everything is paid upfront, so if you have questions about what’s included, reach out to the host before finalizing your reservation.
Airbnb’s Role in Payout
Airbnb holds the payment until roughly 24 hours after check-in, then releases it to the host (minus Airbnb’s own fees). If a reservation is canceled or changed, how much is refunded—or not—often depends on the timing and the host’s cancellation policy.
Best Practices for Hosts and Guests
For Hosts
- Be Transparent: Clearly list the cleaning fee and explain what it covers (laundry, sanitizing surfaces, etc.).
- Strike a Balance: Keep your fee competitive. High fees can deter short-term stays, while low fees might not cover your costs.
- Optimize Your Process: A standardized checklist helps ensure thorough, efficient cleanings.
- Invite Feedback: If guests comment on cleanliness or the fee, use it as an opportunity to improve and refine your approach.
For Guests
- Review the Full Price Breakdown: Check the total cost—nightly rate, cleaning fee, taxes—before booking to avoid surprises.
- Compare Listings: If a fee seems high, look at other rentals in the same area to see what’s typical.
- Ask Questions: If you’re unsure about a cleaning fee, message the host. Clear communication helps avoid misunderstandings.
- Leave the Space in Good Shape: Following simple checkout guidelines (like taking out trash) can foster a positive relationship with your host.
By following these tips, both hosts and guests can enjoy a smooth, transparent experience where the cleaning fee is simply another part of a well-managed stay.
The Debate on Cleaning Fees
Cleaning fees, though straightforward in principle, can spark strong opinions:
Controversies and Guest Frustrations
- High Fees for Short Stays: A steep cleaning fee can make short stays feel disproportionately expensive.
- “Chore Lists” Despite a Fee: Some guests feel frustrated when asked to complete tasks like stripping beds or doing laundry after paying a notable cleaning fee.
Host Perspective
- Covering Actual Costs: Larger or pet-friendly properties require more time and resources to maintain. Hosts emphasize that cleaning fees aren’t about profit but rather covering real expenses.
- Ensuring High Standards: A professionally cleaned space often leads to better reviews and happier guests, but can also be a significant expense.
Trends and Evolving Policies
- Calls for More Transparency: Airbnb and similar platforms encourage hosts to clearly display all fees so guests know what they’re paying for.
- Experimenting With Lower Fees: Some hosts choose to fold cleaning costs into the nightly rate, which can simplify pricing but may raise nightly costs for short stays.
As Airbnb evolves, so does the conversation around cleaning fees. By understanding both guest and host perspectives, travelers can make choices that fit their budget and hosts can set fees that reflect the true cost of a quality, welcoming stay.
Tips for Setting a Reasonable Cleaning Fee (For Hosts)
Finding the right balance in your cleaning fee is crucial for guest satisfaction and your bottom line.
- Research Local Market Rates
- Look at listings similar in size and amenities.
- Keep local labor and supply costs in mind.
- Optimize Turnover Efficiency
- Use a cleaning checklist to ensure nothing’s missed.
- Plan cleanings and supplies in bulk or on a schedule to reduce costs.
- Maintain Guest Satisfaction
- Match your fee to the quality you promise. If you charge a higher fee, be sure to deliver a spotless, welcoming environment.
- Encourage guests to follow basic checkout tasks to reduce overall cleaning time.
- Monitor and Adjust
- Keep an eye on guest reviews and feedback about cleanliness or the fee.
- Revisit your fee if you renovate, add new amenities, or otherwise change the scope of the cleaning required.
By covering genuine cleaning costs while keeping fees fair, you’ll create an experience that guests appreciate—leading to better reviews, repeat bookings, and a more successful rental in the long run.
The cleaning fee is one of many details that shape the Airbnb experience. When approached thoughtfully, it helps ensure each new arrival finds a fresh, welcoming space while remaining clear and fair for everyone involved.