If you're looking for a flexible and potentially lucrative side hustle, cleaning short-term rental properties such as Airbnb, VRBO, or HomeAway, may be just what you need. In this post, we'll cover the basics of starting an Airbnb cleaning business and what it takes to succeed.
What is Airbnb Cleaning?
Airbnb cleaning is the process of preparing a short-term rental property for the next guests. As a cleaner, you'll be responsible for tasks like vacuuming, dusting, changing linens, and restocking essentials such as toiletries and towels. Depending on the property and the owner's requirements, you may also need to do some light maintenance work, such as replacing light bulbs or fixing minor plumbing issues.
Qualifications Needed
To succeed in Airbnb cleaning, you need attention to detail and the ability to show up when needed. You should have some prior experience in cleaning and an eye for detail to ensure that everything is spotless for the next guests.
Start-up Cost
The start-up costs for an Airbnb cleaning business are minimal. Most of the cleaning supplies, like the vacuum, brooms, and mops, are usually provided by the homeowner. You only need to bring your cleaning solutions, rags, and wipes.
Hidden Costs
The primary hidden costs of an Airbnb cleaning business are fuel to get to the location and your time spent cleaning. You'll also need to invest time and effort in finding new clients.
Potential Earnings
According to industry estimates, you can earn between $35 to $45 per hour as an Airbnb cleaner. The more properties you clean, the more you can earn. However, the rates may vary based on the property location, size, and the owner's specific requirements. As you grow you can add other people to handle properties. Their work will be earning you money, so your earnings can increase fast. If set up properly this can become entirely passive with others running the business, and you collecting.
Time Involved
Cleaning an Airbnb property can take several hours, depending on its size and the extent of the cleaning required. However, you can plan your schedule and clean the property at your convenience.
Your Customer
Your primary customer base will be short-term rental property owners. You'll need to develop relationships with these owners to get referrals and repeat business.
Scalability
The beauty of Airbnb cleaning as a business is that it's highly scalable. You can start by cleaning properties yourself, but as you take on more than you can handle, you can hire other cleaners to work on the properties and pay them a portion of your fee.
Website Required
While having a website is not necessary, it can help property owners find your services when searching online. You can also showcase your work and services on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
Advertising/Marketing
The best way to get business initially is by reaching out to owners and asking if they would like to hire a cleaner or switch from their current one. You can also advertise your services on social media platforms, such as Facebook and Instagram, and post ads on local classifieds sites.
Equipment Needed
The equipment needed varies based on your agreement with the owner. Some cleaners bring their own vacuum, mops, brooms, and everything they need. In contrast, others have it required that the owner supplies all or part of it.
Staff Required
At the start, you won't need staff, but as you scale and take on more properties, you can hire other cleaners to take on more work.
Keys to Success
To succeed as an Airbnb cleaner, you need to be good at cleaning, pay attention to details, and not miss anything in the house. It's also a good practice to create a checklist for each property and go through it each time, adding things as the property owner requests or as you see they need to be done.
Additional Resources
Cleaning Checklist - https://amzn.to/3w5kZI0
YouTube Video about cleaning Airbnb’s - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKVMiGPyCoo
In summary, starting an Airbnb cleaning business is a low-cost and scalable way to earn extra income. With attention to detail and a willingness to show up when needed, you can build a successful business that helps short-term rental owners keep their properties clean and ready for the next guest. As you grow, you can hire additional staff to take on more properties and leverage their time to earn even more income. With a website and social media presence, you can market your services to potential clients and build a loyal customer base. With a little hard work and dedication, you can turn this side hustle into a profitable business that provides financial security and flexibility.
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