If you’ve ever booked an Airbnb, you’ve probably wondered, what is average cleaning fee on airbnb? Among the additional charges, the cleaning fee is one that frequently catches guests off guard. But what is the average cleaning fee on Airbnb, and how do hosts determine how much to charge?
For hosts, cleaning fees help cover the cost of maintaining a well-kept rental, whether they hire professional cleaners or do the work themselves. For guests, these fees can make or break a booking decision. In this article, we’ll explore Airbnb cleaning fees, the factors influencing them, and strategies for setting a fair price.
Understanding Airbnb Cleaning Fees
The cleaning fee on Airbnb is a one-time charge that hosts apply to a reservation to cover the cost of cleaning after guests check out. Unlike hotels, where cleaning is built into the nightly rate, Airbnb allows hosts to set their own fees based on their actual cleaning expenses.
A typical cleaning fee may include:
- Washing linens and making beds
- Cleaning bathrooms and restocking toiletries
- Wiping down kitchen surfaces and washing dishes
- Vacuuming, sweeping, and mopping floors
- Emptying trash bins and replacing garbage bags
While some hosts clean their properties themselves, others hire professional cleaning services, which significantly impacts the fee amount.
Factors That Influence Airbnb Cleaning Fees
Cleaning fees vary widely depending on several factors:
Property Size and Type
Larger properties take longer to clean and require more supplies. A private room in a shared home may have a cleaning fee of around $15 to $30, while a one-bedroom apartment might range between $40 and $80. Multi-bedroom homes and luxury rentals often have higher fees, sometimes exceeding $150.
Location Matters
Cleaning costs tend to be higher in major cities where labour and supplies are more expensive. For example, cleaning fees in cities like New York, San Francisco, and London are generally higher than in small towns or rural areas.
Professional Cleaning vs. DIY
Hosts who hire professional cleaners typically charge higher fees to cover their costs. On the other hand, those who clean their own rentals may charge lower fees or even roll the cost into the nightly rate.
Guest Expectations
Budget-conscious travellers may be more sensitive to cleaning fees, while guests booking high-end vacation rentals expect a higher standard of cleanliness and are willing to pay more for it.
Stay Duration
Since the cleaning fee is a flat charge per booking, it feels more expensive for short stays. A $75 cleaning fee on a one-night stay is a significant cost, while the same fee spread over a week-long stay becomes much more reasonable.
What is the Average Cleaning Fee on Airbnb?
Cleaning fees vary depending on location and property type, but some general trends have emerged.
For small rentals like private rooms, cleaning fees often range from $15 to $30. A studio or one-bedroom apartment may have a cleaning fee between $40 and $80. Larger properties, such as two- or three-bedroom homes, often have fees ranging from $65 to $150. Luxury vacation homes or properties with extensive amenities, such as pools or hot tubs, can have cleaning fees exceeding $200.
Additionally, Airbnb has recently introduced transparent pricing initiatives, encouraging hosts to bundle cleaning fees into the total price to avoid surprises at checkout. This means that some hosts no longer charge separate cleaning fees, opting instead to adjust their nightly rates to cover these costs.
How Cleaning Fees Affect Booking Decisions
Cleaning fees play a major role in how guests perceive the value of an Airbnb listing. A high cleaning fee can discourage guests from booking short stays, as it significantly increases the overall cost per night.
Guests are also more likely to compare total costs rather than just the nightly rate, meaning a listing with a low base price but a high cleaning fee may not be as attractive as one with an all-included rate.
To stay competitive, some hosts:
- Adjust their cleaning fee based on the length of stay, offering discounts for longer bookings
- Reduce their cleaning fee but increase their nightly rate to balance the cost
- Offer mid-stay cleanings for extended reservations
How to Set a Competitive Airbnb Cleaning Fee
Hosts should aim for a cleaning fee that covers their costs without discouraging bookings. Here are some strategies for setting a reasonable fee:
- Research Local Listings: Compare cleaning fees for similar properties in the area to determine a competitive price.
- Calculate Actual Costs: Factor in cleaning supplies, labour, and time spent preparing the rental for the next guest.
- Adjust Fees Based on Stay Length: Offering lower cleaning fees for longer stays can make the total cost more appealing.
- Be Transparent: Clearly communicate cleaning expectations to guests to avoid misunderstandings.
Some hosts choose to eliminate the cleaning fee entirely, rolling the cost into their nightly rate. This can make pricing more attractive, especially for short stays. However, for properties that require deep cleaning between guests, keeping a separate fee may be the best option.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Balance
Cleaning fees are a necessary part of running an Airbnb, but they should be set thoughtfully to avoid deterring potential guests. Understanding what is the average cleaning fee on Airbnb can help both hosts and travelers make informed decisions.
For Airbnb hosts looking for a professional and reliable cleaning service, check out Denver Home Cleaner. A well-maintained rental leads to happier guests and better reviews, making expert cleaning services a worthwhile investment.
