A good turnover checklist helps to ensure that the home is meticulously cleaned and any damage or missing items are reported swiftly. Although each home has distinct and diverse needs, the following list serves as an excellent starting point. Keep your guests and their experiences in mind while creating your checklist. Finally, make sure to clearly communicate all expectations when collaborating with your housekeeper.
- Overall Inspection
- Check for any damages or missing items
- Make note of any stains, broken or missing items
- Take photos of what you find. (Listing platforms and insurance companies will often require photos in order to be reimbursed for the damage or missing items.)
- Bedrooms
- Change and wash all bed linens, including comforters and pillowcases
- Dust all surfaces, including dressers, nightstands, and lamps
- Clean all mirrors and windows
- Vacuum floors, including under the bed
- Check for any damages or missing items
- Make note of any stains or damages on the mattress or bedding
- Bathrooms
- Clean and disinfect all surfaces, including sinks, toilets, showers, and tubs
- Wipe down all mirrors and windows
- Refill soap dispensers, toilet paper, and paper towels
- Replace all towels, including hand towels and washcloths
- Check for any damages or missing items
- Make note of any damages or stains on the shower curtains or bath mats
- Kitchen
- Clean and disinfect all surfaces, including countertops, sink, and stove
- Wipe down all appliances, including refrigerator and microwave
- Wash all dishes and utensils
- Replace any kitchen towels or oven mitts
- Check for any damages or missing items
- Make note of any damages or stains on the kitchen linens or cookware
- Living Room
- Dust all surfaces, including coffee tables, end tables, and TV stand
- Clean all mirrors and windows
- Vacuum all floors, including under furniture and rugs
- Check for any damages or missing items
- Make note of any damages or stains on the couch or other furniture
- Outdoor Areas
- Sweep any decks or patios
- Remove any debris or trash from the yard or outdoor areas
- Check for any damages or missing items, such as outdoor furniture or grill
- Make note of any damages to the yard or landscaping
- General
- Check and replace any burnt-out light bulbs
- Replace any batteries in smoke detectors or remote controls
- Ensure that all doors and windows are secure and locked
- Care for amenities (hot tub, sauna, pool,…)
Instructions for Looking for Damage
- Look for any damages, stains, or missing items throughout the property
- Take photos of any damages or stains as evidence
- Make note of any damages or missing items on the checklist or in a separate logbook
- Report any damages or missing items to the property owner or manager as soon as possible
Special Touches
These special touches can make a big difference in the guest’s experience and leave a lasting impression. By adding these touches to the cleaning checklist, they can become part of the standard cleaning routine for the property.
- Set out a bottle of wine or champagne as a welcome gesture (if allowed by local laws and regulations)
- Bake fresh cookies or leave other snacks for guests to enjoy upon arrival
- Change the welcome sign to include the name of the reservation holder
- Leave a few lights on to create a welcoming atmosphere for guests arriving late
- Set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature for guests
- Place mints or other treats on pillows as a small surprise for guests
- Replenish tea and coffee supplies to ensure guests have plenty for their stay
- Wipe down the house manual