How to optimize your hosting routine

Hosting can take a lot of time—but once you get the hang of it, you might also find that you can optimize many aspects of your routine. That way, you can focus on the fun part: creating a memorable experience for your guests.

If you think about your cleaning routine now, you can find a simple way to reset your space. Here are some tips:

• Consider hiring a professional and adding a cleaning fee* to your listing, but note that higher fees can increase expectations and discourage shorter stays
• Make sure all your bedding and towels are the same color, so you can wash them all at once
• Have at least one extra set of bedding and towels so you don’t have to wait for a washing machine load to finish to remake the bed
• Plan for a regular deep clean to make cleaning easier between stays

You’ll always need to supply basic amenities and make sure guests are comfortable—so why not make it easy? Here are some tips:

• Try stocking up by buying in bulk
  
• Consider scheduling a recurring order of your go-to cleaning products and other essentials, so you never have to take the time to reorder or run out if you forget
• Superhost Omar of Mexico City suggests letting technology do the work: “Equip your space with technology—smart locks, carbon monoxide and smoke detectors, noise detectors—that can be easily managed remotely”

You don’t have to spend a long time responding to every message from a guest—in fact, our tools can speed up the process. One of Omar’s top tips? “Set up automated templates to communicate with your guests,” he says.

What does this entail?

• Download the Airbnb app to reply quickly
• Try our scheduled messages tool to answer with lightning-fast speed
• Set up quick replies (formerly known as saved messages) to respond without writing a word
• Once you have these shortcuts set up, don’t forget to add a warm, personalized greeting to connect directly with your guests

It’s easy to make your guests feel welcome while also simplifying check-in. Here are some tips:

• Consider self check-in, which allows Hosts to provide great hospitality from afar
• Add check-in instructions to your listing, and create an easy and visual step-by-step guide with pictures
• Confirm that your guests received check-in instructions 24 hours before every stay, and ask if they have any questions (this could be with a scheduled message!)
• Consider enlisting a co-host or working with a property manager to save time

*Excluding Hosts who offer accommodations in mainland China. Find out more