Airbnb is implementing new checkout rules starting next month, easing the cleaning burden on guests. The revised policies limit hosts in requesting extensive cleaning tasks from guests. Effective for bookings made on or after November 20, the updated guidelines urge hosts to be reasonable in their cleaning expectations. Tasks like stripping the bed, taking out the garbage, and washing dishes are now the responsibility of the host, covered by the cleaning fee.
This change comes amidst long-standing debates over Airbnb cleaning duties. Hosts have shared experiences of guests leaving behind messes, while guests have voiced frustrations over paying a cleaning fee and still being tasked with cleaning. Makarand Mody, an associate professor at Boston University’s School of Hospitality Administration, highlighted the discord between cleaning fees and guest expectations.
In addition to cleaning regulations, hosts are prohibited from limiting access to advertised amenities or imposing fines on guests. House rules must be transparent at the time of booking, covering details like check-in/out times, smoking policies, pet rules, and guest limits. While hosts can introduce reasonable requests, Airbnb will evaluate their appropriateness based on various factors.
Mody expressed curiosity about hosts’ reactions to the new rules and how Airbnb will enforce them. He noted that Airbnb’s flexible definition of “reasonable” allows hosts some leeway to tailor requests to their unique circumstances. The company aims to balance host satisfaction with guest experience and control over their properties.