01
Before You Start
Plan 4 hours per turnover. Always build in a time buffer between checkout and check-in.
Confirm what time the current guest checked out
Confirm what time the next guest is arriving
Check guest messages for damage reports or items left behind
Set aside any left-behind items in a labeled bag, message the guest immediately
Gather all cleaning supplies, fresh linens, and restocking items BEFORE starting
Quick walkthrough to assess overall condition
Document any damage with photos BEFORE cleaning (for claims)
Start a timer to track how long each turn takes
02
Living Room & Common Areas
Pick up all trash — check under cushions, behind furniture, between sofa cushions
Check for left-behind items: chargers, glasses, jewelry, clothing, toys
Vacuum entire sofa/sectional with upholstery attachment, treat any stains
Vacuum all floors — move furniture to reach corners and edges
Mop all hard floors with appropriate cleaner
Dust every surface: shelves, TV stand, coffee table, side tables, window sills, baseboards, fan blades
Wipe TV screen gently with microfiber cloth
Wipe all remotes with disinfectant — front, back, between buttons
Disinfect every light switch plate and door handle
Replace any burned-out bulbs
Restyle coffee table exactly like listing photos
Arrange throw pillows and blanket to match listing photos
Straighten all picture frames and wall decor
Check WiFi — run a speed test
Empty all trash cans, wipe inside, install fresh liners
Set thermostat to comfortable arrival temperature
03
Kitchen
Empty refrigerator completely — throw away ALL food
Remove fridge shelves and drawers, wash, dry, replace
Wipe interior walls of fridge and freezer
Wipe fridge exterior including handles and top
Run dishwasher on sanitize cycle
Unload and put every item in its proper place
Check every dish and glass for residue — rewash anything questionable
Clean inside microwave (walls, ceiling, turntable, door)
Clean inside oven if used
Wipe stovetop, burner grates, and control knobs
Clean toaster (crumb tray, exterior)
Clean all small appliances: coffee maker (run water-only cycle), blender, air fryer
Wipe all countertops, backsplash, and counter-wall edges
Clean and sanitize sink — basin, faucet, handles
Run garbage disposal with ice and lemon
Wipe cabinet fronts and handles, especially near stove and sink
Refill hand soap and dish soap dispensers
Replace kitchen towels with fresh matching towels
Restock coffee station completely — reset mugs to display position
Restock: paper towels, dish sponge, trash bags
Take out all trash and recycling with fresh liners
Check pantry staples: salt, pepper, olive oil, cooking spray
Pro Tip
Your coffee station should look EXACTLY like your listing photos every single time. It’s one of the most photographed spots in any STR.
04
Bedrooms
Strip ALL linens: fitted sheet, flat sheet, pillowcases, duvet cover, mattress protector
Inspect mattress protector — replace if stained or worn
Inspect mattress for stains, damage, or sagging
Inspect all pillows — replace any that are flat or stained
Put on a clean mattress protector
Make bed with fresh sheets using the hotel tuck method
Layer pillows: sleeping → Euro shams → decorative
Place folded throw blanket at foot of bed
Iron or steam any visible wrinkles on the duvet
Dust all surfaces: nightstands, dresser, headboard, sills, baseboards
Wipe all switches, door handles, drawer pulls, closet handles
Vacuum/mop floors including under bed and inside closet
Check under bed for left-behind items
Check closet: matching hangers evenly spaced, extra blankets on shelf
Check every drawer is empty and clean
Reset nightstand: lamp, coaster, charging cable, small plant
Test all lamps, check blackout curtains
05
Bathrooms
Scrub toilet inside with brush and disinfectant
Wipe entire toilet exterior: lid, seat, tank, base, behind base
Clean floor around and behind toilet
Scrub shower/tub: walls, floor, door/curtain, faucet, showerhead
Clean shower door tracks — remove soap scum and mildew
Clean mirror streak-free
Wipe vanity countertop, faucet, handles
Clean inside vanity cabinet and drawers
Refill all dispensers: shampoo, conditioner, body wash, hand soap
Replace ALL towels: 2 bath, 1 hand, 2 washcloths per guest
Replace bath mat
Empty trash, wipe can, new liner
Clean exhaust fan cover
Mop entire floor including corners and under vanity
Reset vanity display: soap pump + candle + plant on tray
Fresh toilet paper roll
Check for mold/mildew in grout and caulking
Pro Tip
Run a white cloth along the shower door track, behind the toilet, and under the vanity. If it comes back dirty, those spots need more attention.
06
Outdoor Spaces
Sweep or blow all patio, deck, porch, and walkways
Wipe all outdoor furniture
Arrange outdoor pillows and cushions in photo positions
Hot tub: test chemicals, confirm temp, wipe cover and rim
Grill: scrape grates, wipe exterior, empty grease trap
Christina Cutolo is a licensed mortgage loan officer (NMLS #180729) at CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC. This guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, lending, or legal advice. Loan programs, rates, fees, and terms are subject to change and to lender and borrower qualification. Always consult a licensed professional regarding your specific situation. Equal Housing Opportunity. · christinacutolo.com