How to Start an Airbnb Cleaning Business
Introduction
Airbnb cleaning is one of the fastest-growing local service businesses right now.
Why?
Because Airbnb hosts need their properties cleaned:
• quickly
• consistently
• professionally
Between every guest.
This creates a strong opportunity for beginners.
Unlike regular house cleaning, Airbnb cleaning often becomes:
👉 repeat work
👉 recurring income
👉 long-term host relationships
In this guide, we’ll break down how to start an Airbnb cleaning business from scratch, including startup costs, realistic earnings, and how to get your first clients.
Quick Overview
Business Model: Local recurring service business
Startup Cost: $50 – $300
Skill Level Required: Low
Time Commitment: 5–30 hours per week
Best For: Beginners who want recurring local income
If you only read one section, read this:
Airbnb cleaning can realistically generate $1,000–$5,000/month, especially with multiple recurring properties.
How This Business Actually Makes Money
You clean short-term rental properties between guests.
Typical tasks include:
• cleaning bathrooms and kitchens
• changing bedding
• vacuuming and dusting
• restocking supplies
• checking property condition
Hosts pay because:
• fast turnovers are essential
• guest reviews matter
• they need reliable cleaners
Real-World Example
You charge:
$120 per Airbnb turnover cleaning
If you clean:
2 properties per day × $120 = $240/day
5 days per week = $1,200/week
Monthly: ~$4,800
Realistic Earnings Breakdown
Worst-Case Scenario (Beginner Phase)
1–2 recurring properties
Monthly: $500 – $1,500
Average Scenario (Consistent Hosts)
5–10 recurring properties
Monthly: $2,000 – $5,000
Best-Case Scenario (Team + Multiple Hosts)
Multiple cleaners + recurring contracts
Monthly: $8,000+
Startup Costs (Realistic Budget)
Essential Equipment
These are the basic tools you need:
• All-purpose cleaners – $10 – $30
• Glass cleaner – $5 – $15
• Microfiber cloths – $10 – $30
• Vacuum cleaner – $50 – $150
• Mop and bucket – $20 – $50
• Laundry supplies – $10 – $30
Estimated essential cost: $100 – $250
Optional (As You Grow)
• Extra linens and towels – $50 – $200
• Cleaning caddy/storage setup – $20 – $50
• Scheduling software – optional
• Branded shirts or uniforms – optional
Estimated optional cost: $50 – $300+
Total Estimated Startup Cost
• Minimum: $100 – $250
• With upgrades: $250 – $600+
Reality Check
You don’t need expensive tools to start.
What Airbnb hosts care about most:
• reliability
• fast communication
• consistent quality
That’s what gets repeat work.
Step-by-Step: How to Start From Scratch
Step 1 – Learn Airbnb Cleaning Standards
Airbnb cleaning is different from normal cleaning.
Hosts care about:
• presentation
• guest experience
• speed
Focus on:
• spotless kitchens and bathrooms
• fresh bedding
• staging the property neatly
Step 2 – Set Your Pricing
Typical pricing:
• small apartment: $60–$120
• medium property: $120–$180
• larger homes: $200+
Pricing depends on:
• size
• laundry requirements
• turnaround speed
Step 3 – Get Your First Airbnb Hosts
Method 1 – Airbnb Website Outreach
Search Airbnb listings in your area.
Message hosts directly.
Method 2 – Facebook Groups
Search for:
• Airbnb host groups
• local short-term rental groups
Method 3 – Local Networking
Talk to:
• property managers
• real estate investors
• hosts
Example Outreach Message
“Hi, I run an Airbnb cleaning service in the area and help hosts keep their properties guest-ready with reliable turnover cleanings. Let me know if you ever need cleaning support or backup coverage.”
Step 4 – Build Systems
Successful Airbnb cleaners use:
• checklists
• consistent routines
• fast communication
This makes scaling easier.
Step 5 – Turn One Host Into Multiple Properties
Many hosts own:
• multiple units
• additional rentals
One good client can lead to recurring monthly income.
Why Airbnb Cleaning Is Different
Unlike normal house cleaning:
👉 speed matters more
👉 consistency matters more
👉 presentation matters more
This makes reliability extremely valuable.
Optional: Creating a Simple Website
A simple website can help you:
• look more professional
• attract hosts
• collect bookings
Keep it simple:
• services
• pricing
• contact form
Hostgator and Base44 have some amazing AI website builders that can build a website in minutes
Base44 Website Prompt (Copy & Paste)
Create a clean, professional website for an Airbnb cleaning business.
Include:
• homepage explaining Airbnb turnover cleaning services
• services page (cleaning, linen changes, restocking supplies)
• pricing section with estimated turnover cleaning rates
• booking/contact form for Airbnb hosts
• before-and-after image section
• mobile-friendly design optimized for local service businesses
The design should feel modern, reliable, and focused on helping Airbnb hosts keep their properties guest-ready.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Missing cleaning details
Poor communication
Arriving late
Not using checklists
Airbnb hosts value consistency more than almost anything.
Who This Business Is Perfect For
Great for:
• beginners
• detail-oriented people
• those wanting recurring income
• local service entrepreneurs
Not ideal for:
• people wanting passive income
• those avoiding physical work
If I Were Starting From $0 Today
Step 1
Offer discounted cleanings for 1–2 Airbnb hosts.
Step 2
Create a simple checklist system.
Step 3
Get testimonials and reviews.
Step 4
Reach out to more hosts.
Step 5
Focus on recurring properties.
Final Thoughts
Airbnb cleaning is one of the best local service businesses for beginners.
It offers:
• recurring income
• repeat clients
• growing demand
Simple service — strong opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need experience to start Airbnb cleaning?
No. Most people learn through practice and consistency.
How much can Airbnb cleaners make?
Many earn between $1,000 and $5,000/month depending on properties.
Is Airbnb cleaning a good side hustle?
Yes. It’s flexible, recurring, and in high demand.