Hocking Hills Airbnb Cleaning Checklist

Why This Matters More Than You Think

A single “the place wasn’t clean” review does more damage than five 5-star reviews can repair. In a market like Hocking Hills where guests are paying $150–$500/night for a nature retreat, cleanliness isn’t just expected — it’s the baseline for a positive review. Your cleaning SOP is the backbone of your guest experience.

Pre-Turnover: Guest Checkout

• Confirm checkout time (standard: 11 AM in Hocking Hills)
• Send automated checkout reminder the night before with instructions
• Rotate smart lock code for incoming guest
• Note any damage reports from departing guest

Room-by-Room Checklist

Kitchen

• Empty and sanitize refrigerator (check every shelf, drawer, door pocket)
• Run dishwasher or hand-wash all dishes, put away
• Wipe down all countertops, backsplash, and cabinet fronts
• Clean stovetop, oven interior (every 3rd turnover minimum), and microwave interior
• Sanitize sink and drain
• Clean coffee maker (run vinegar cycle monthly, wipe exterior each turnover)
• Restock: coffee, filters, sugar, creamer, dish soap, sponge, trash bags, paper towels
• Check all cookware, utensils, and dishes for damage or missing items
• Empty and reline all trash cans

Living Areas

• Vacuum all floors and rugs (move furniture quarterly for deep clean)
• Dust all surfaces: shelves, windowsills, ceiling fans, light fixtures
• Wipe all high-touch surfaces: light switches, door handles, remotes, game controllers
• Fluff and arrange throw pillows and blankets
• Clean glass surfaces (windows, mirrors, TV screen)
• Check fireplace — clean ash, restock firewood if wood-burning
• Test TV and streaming devices (confirm Wi-Fi connection)
• Check all light bulbs and replace any that are out

Bedrooms (repeat for each)

• Strip ALL bed linens including mattress protector (wash hot, every turnover)
• Inspect mattress for stains; treat or replace protector if needed
• Make bed with fresh linens — hospital corners, crisp presentation
• Vacuum floor, under bed, and closet area
• Dust all surfaces including headboard, nightstands, dresser
• Wipe light switches, door handles, lamp switches
• Check hangers in closet, provide at least 6 per guest
• Check blackout curtains or blinds for function
• Set bedside items: phone charger cable, tissues

Bathrooms (repeat for each)

• Scrub toilet inside and out (including base and behind)
• Clean shower/tub: walls, floor, fixtures, glass door or curtain
• Clean and sanitize sink, faucet, and countertop
• Clean mirror
• Replace all towels (bath, hand, washcloth — 2 sets per guest)
• Restock: toilet paper (at least 4 rolls), hand soap, shampoo, conditioner, body wash
• Clean floor (mop, not just sweep)
• Check for mold or mildew in grout and caulk
• Empty trash, reline can

Hot Tub Protocol

The hot tub is your most-reviewed amenity and your highest liability. Never skip this.

• Test water chemistry: pH (7.2–7.8), alkalinity (80–120 ppm), sanitizer levels
• Adjust chemicals as needed and record readings in a log
• Verify water temperature is at set point (100–104°F typical)
• Clean filter basket and skimmer
• Wipe down hot tub shell above waterline, control panel, and cover handle
• Wipe down steps, handrails, and surrounding deck area
• Verify cover is secure and in good condition
• Remove any debris (leaves, insects) from water surface
• Complete drain-and-refill every 3–4 months or after heavy use
• Post safety rules visibly near the tub (no glass, shower first, supervise children, max occupancy)

Outdoor Areas

• Sweep deck and porches
• Wipe down outdoor furniture (Adirondack chairs, tables, swing)
• Clean and prep fire pit area: remove old ash, restock firewood, set kindling
• Clean grill grates and exterior (if applicable)
• Check exterior lighting — replace bulbs, clear cobwebs from motion sensors
• Clear walkways of leaves, debris, or ice (seasonal)
• Verify driveway is accessible and property address marker is visible

Seasonal Additions

Fall (September – November)

• Increase leaf clearing frequency (deck, walkways, hot tub area)
• Stock extra firewood — demand peaks during foliage season
• Set out a boot tray or mud mat at entry

Winter (December – March)

• Salt or sand walkways and steps before each arrival
• Verify heat is working and set to at least 60°F between guests
• Check pipe insulation and heat tape under cabins
• Stock ice scraper, snow shovel near entry for guest use
• Confirm hot tub cover is properly insulated

Spring (April – May)

• Deep clean after winter: windows inside and out, deck power wash, gutter check
• Inspect deck for winter damage
• Check for wasp nests, carpenter bee activity (treat before it becomes a guest complaint)

Summer (June – August)

• Increase turnover supplies budget (higher turnover frequency)
• Stock bug spray and citronella candles
• Verify A/C function and clean filters

Quality Control: The Final Walk

After every clean, one person does a final walk-through as if they were the guest arriving:

• Enter through the front door. What’s the first impression?
• Check every light switch, faucet, and appliance
• Flush every toilet
• Open the fridge — does it smell fresh?
• Sit on the couch, lie on each bed. Does everything feel right?
• Look at the hot tub. Is the water clear? Is the cover clean?
• Check the view from the deck. Would you take a photo and post it?

If the answer to that last question is yes, the cabin is ready.