How to Clean a Property to Get 5 Stars on Airbnb?

When a guest walks into a chalet, their first few seconds of observation already determine most of their impression. And that impression largely depends on cleanliness. Is the chalet even better than the photos they saw online?

A spotless chalet inspires trust, creates a welcoming atmosphere, and plays a crucial role in the overall guest experience. On the other hand, a single detail—dust on a piece of furniture, a hair left in the bathroom, or a lingering odor—can break the “wow” effect and negatively influence a review.

At Zen Ô Chalet, we see cleanliness as the very foundation of a 5-star experience. Here are our tips to turn every cleaning session into a true guarantee of excellence:

1. Create a Clear and Systematic Checklist

A 5-star cleaning is never done “by eye.” It requires method. A detailed checklist ensures that every space is inspected—no exceptions:

• Bathroom: streak-free mirrors, disinfected shower and toilet, fresh folded towels.

• Kitchen: sparkling appliances, sanitized counters, emptied and cleaned trash bins.

• Bedrooms: perfectly made beds, no dust, vacuumed and mopped floors.

• Common areas: cushions neatly arranged, clean windows, spotless floors.

This rigor is essential to guarantee consistency from one guest to the next.

2. Don’t Overlook the Small Details

It’s often the hidden details that make all the difference:

• Dust behind furniture and lamps.

• Hair left in the shower or on the floor.

• Unpleasant smells in the kitchen, fridge, or carpets.

A guest who notices just one of these issues may assume the entire cleaning was careless. Perception of cleanliness is just as important as cleanliness itself.

3. Treat the Bedding Like a Hotel

The bed is where guests spend most of their time—and it’s a decisive factor in their review:

• Fresh, perfectly fitted sheets, ideally ironed.

• Fluffy pillows, arranged neatly.

• Mattress aligned, blankets folded with care.

A well-made bed immediately creates a sense of comfort and luxury.

4. Double-Check the Dishes and Utensils

A common Airbnb complaint: opening a cupboard to find a stained plate or sticky pan. To avoid this misstep:

• Inspect every dish and utensil.

• Check the cleanliness of the dishwasher.

• Place a small selection of spotless dishes on the counter or table to highlight cleanliness.

This small effort has a big impact on guest satisfaction.

5. Create a Welcoming Atmosphere

Cleanliness goes beyond the absence of dust—it should evoke freshness and comfort:

• Air out every room before guests arrive.

• Use products that leave a neutral or lightly pleasant scent—never overpowering.

• Add a thoughtful final touch: a scented candle, fresh flowers, neatly folded towel, or a handwritten welcome note.

These details create a positive sensory experience from the moment the door opens.

The Zen Ô Chalet Approach

At Zen Ô Chalet, we know that consistency is the key. That’s why:

• Our teams are trained specifically for both short- and long-term stays.

• We follow a strict, standardized cleaning protocol for every property.

• We aim not only for visible cleanliness but also for a sensory experience: a home that smells fresh, feels inviting, and makes guests want to settle in right away.