Guests booking short-term accommodations through Airbnb face fewer mandatory cleaning chores under updated platform rules designed to make host requirements clearer and more reasonable. The changes apply to reservations made on or after November 20 and restrict hosts from requiring guests to perform tasks normally handled by professional cleaners, even when cleaning fees are charged.
According to Airbnb’s updated guidelines, hosts can establish seven standard house rules and introduce additional requests deemed reasonable. The company stated that the revised policy aims to make expectations easier to find and understand while preventing guests from encountering excessive demands before checkout.
What Cleaning Tasks Are No Longer Allowed?
Under the new requirements published on Airbnb’s website, hosts generally cannot require guests to complete chores that demand substantial time or effort or would typically be performed by a professional cleaner. Specific chores that are restricted under the updated guidelines include:
- Stripping beds and gathering linens
- Taking trash offsite or to distant dumpsters
- Washing, drying, and putting away dishes
- Undertaking deep cleaning, sweeping, or mopping
The policy update addresses widespread frustration among travelers who reported paying steep cleaning fees while still being handed extensive lists of housekeeping duties prior to departure.
Allowed Exceptions and Reasonable Requests
While the platform has clamped down on heavy chores, Airbnb’s updated policy allows exceptions in certain specific circumstances. For example, hosts may ask guests to limit shower time or water usage when local drought-related water restrictions apply.
Additionally, hosts can continue to ask guests to complete basic departure tasks that ensure safety and property security, such as:
- Turning off lights and electronics
- Locking windows and exterior doors
- Securing valuables or returning keys to a lockbox
- Throwing out perishable food items to prevent pests
How the Policy Changes Impact Hosts and Travelers
The revised checkout rules are intended to foster greater transparency across the short-term rental market. Hosts are now required to display any reasonable checkout requests clearly on the platform prior to booking, allowing travelers to review expectations before confirming a reservation.
If a host enforces excessive chores that violate the updated guidelines, guests are encouraged to report the issue through Airbnb support. The platform aims to balance guest convenience with the practical realities of managing vacation properties between stays.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Airbnb’s updated cleaning task policy take effect?
The rules apply to all reservations made on or after November 20.
Can Airbnb hosts still charge cleaning fees?
Yes, hosts can still charge cleaning fees, but the updated policy restricts them from requiring guests to perform professional-level cleaning tasks in addition to paying those fees.
Are guests required to take out the trash?
Hosts generally cannot require guests to take trash offsite. However, throwing everyday garbage into designated indoor bins or immediate property receptacles is typically permitted if kept reasonable.
What should I do if my host asks me to wash all the dishes?
Washing, drying, and putting away dishes is explicitly restricted under the updated policy. You can contact Airbnb support if a host enforces unreasonable chores.
Are there any exceptions to the new cleaning rules?
Yes, exceptions are permitted for specific local conditions, such as conserving water during regional droughts or adhering to strict local environmental guidelines.
