Cleanliness has always been top of mind for hosts and guests. But it’s even more critical as we all aim to reduce the spread of infection.
1. Ventilate rooms before you clean. Allow fresh air to circulate for at least 20 minutes. If possible, leave all windows open during the entire cleaning process.
2. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after each cleaning. Use soap and water, and wash for at least 20 seconds. If that’s not possible, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
3. Clean, then disinfect. Use detergent or soap and water to remove dirt, grease, dust, and germs. Once the surface is clean, spray with a disinfectant. Let it stand for a few minutes, then wipe—and if you’re not using paper towels or disposable wipes, it’s best to use a new cleaning cloth for each guest.
4. Use the right disinfectant. You don’t need any hard-to-find cleaning products—most common household disinfectants as well as cleaning solutions with diluted household bleach or at least 70% alcohol, are believed to be effective against the coronavirus. Pay special attention to frequently touched surfaces, like light switches, doorknobs, remote controls, and faucet handles. (See our full list of surfaces to disinfect at the bottom of the page.)
5. Don’t forget about sofas, rugs, drapes, and other soft, porous surfaces. Carefully remove any visible dirt or grime, then clean with the appropriate cleaners indicated for use on these surfaces. If possible, machine-wash items according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Wear disposable gloves while you clean. Gloves should be thrown out after each cleaning. And make sure to wash your hands immediately after gloves are removed.
7. Don’t reuse microfiber cloths, mops, and sponges when cleaning your space for a new guest. Consider stocking up on supplies that you can throw away after each cleaning. If you prefer to clean with reusable products, make sure to machine-wash them at the highest heat setting that’s appropriate for the material.
8. Wash all linens at the highest heat setting recommended by the manufacturer. That includes bed sheets, mattress covers, hand and bath towels, kitchen towels, and blankets. Remember to wear gloves when handling dirty laundry.
9. Clean and disinfect laundry baskets and hampers. If possible, consider using a liner that is either disposable or that you can throw into the washing machine.
10. Empty the vacuum cleaner after every cleaning. You should wipe down the vacuum cleaner with disinfectant, along with appliances like your dishwasher and washing machine.
11. While restocking your supplies, take a moment to check expiration dates. And remember to never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleaning solution that can release toxic gases that are dangerous to inhale.
Helping guests protect themselves
We encourage social distancing by offering self check-in and checkout. Door has a keypad deadbolt coded to each guest.
To help guests maintain a higher standard of cleanliness and hygiene, the space is well-stocked with the essential amenities, and a few extras.
- Antibacterial hand sanitizer
- Disposable gloves and wipes
- Hand soap
- Paper towels
- Tissues
- Toilet Paper
Checklist of items to clean and disinfect
General:
Doorknobs:
- Light switches
- Remote controls
- Tables
- Fan and lamp chains
- Windowsills and window handles
- Thermostats
- Hairdryers
- Garbage and recycling bins
Kitchen:
- Sinks
- Cabinet handles and pulls
- Appliances: oven, toaster, pressure cooker, coffee maker, etc.
- Condiments: oil, salt and pepper shakers, commonly used spices and containers, etc.
- Kitchenware ceramic bowls, kids’ plasticware, etc.
- Hard-backed chairs
Bathroom:
- Sinks
- Toilets
- Faucet handles
- Showers and tubs
- Shower curtains and doors
- Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and soap dispensers
Bedroom
- Hangers and luggage racks
- Nightstands
- Sinks
- Faucets
Cleaning appliances:
- Dishwashers
- Vacuum cleaners
- Washer/dryer units
Kids’ items:
- Toys
- Portable cribs and playpens
- High chairs