What Are the Steps to Opening an Airbnb Cleaning Business?

Sep 19, 2024

Welcome to the world of Airbnb Cleaning, where the potential for growth and success is sky-high. As an entrepreneur or small business owner, the ins and outs of managing operating expenses are crucial to your success in this industry.

The industry of Airbnb cleaning has been growing at an exponential rate, with the potential for even further expansion in the coming years. Understanding the industry's growth and potential is essential for anyone looking to enter this market.

From marketing and advertising to maintenance and supplies, there are numerous costs associated with running a successful Airbnb cleaning business. The importance of understanding and planning for these operating expenses cannot be overstated.

Stay tuned as we delve into the intricacies of managing operating expenses for your Airbnb cleaning business. Get ready to uncover the answers to burning questions like 'How much does it cost to run a business in this industry?'

  • Discover the hidden costs that can make or break your business
  • Learn how to effectively manage and optimize your expenses
  • Uncover the secrets to running a successful Airbnb cleaning business


Operating Costs

Operating costs are the expenses associated with the regular maintenance and upkeep of a business. For a hospitality business such as a hotel or vacation rental, these costs can include cleaning supplies, professional cleaning services, laundry services, wear and tear repairs, restocking guest consumables, transportation costs for cleaners, waste disposal fees, employee wages or contractor payments, and property maintenance for guest-related wear.

Expenditure Minimum, USD Maximum, USD Average, USD
Cleaning supplies purchase 100 300 200
Professional cleaning service fees 200 600 400
Laundry services for linens and towels 150 400 275
Wear and tear repairs for vacuum, mop, etc 50 200 125
Restocking guest consumables (shampoo, toilet paper) 50 150 100
Transportation costs for cleaners 50 150 100
Waste disposal bags and fees 20 100 60
Employee wages or contractor payments 500 1500 1000
Property maintenance for guest-related wear 100 500 300
Total 1220 3800 2510

Cleaning supplies purchase

When setting up an Airbnb or vacation rental, one of the essential startup expenses is purchasing cleaning supplies. This includes a range of products such as multi-surface cleaners, disinfectants, glass cleaners, mops, brooms, vacuum cleaners, and trash bags. The cost of these supplies can vary based on several factors.

Average Cost Ranges

The average cost of purchasing cleaning supplies for an Airbnb or vacation rental typically ranges from $100 to $300, with an average expenditure of around $200. This cost includes basic cleaning products and equipment needed to maintain the cleanliness of the property between guest stays.

Influencing Factors

Several factors can influence the cost of purchasing cleaning supplies. The size of the property, the frequency of guest turnover, and the level of cleanliness expected can all impact the amount spent on cleaning supplies. Additionally, the quality and brand of the products purchased can also affect the overall cost.

Tips for Budgeting

To effectively budget for cleaning supplies, it is important for businesses to assess their specific needs and create a detailed inventory of the supplies required. This can help in estimating the quantity and type of products needed, preventing overstocking or understocking. Additionally, businesses can consider purchasing in bulk or seeking out wholesale suppliers to reduce costs.

  • Conduct a thorough inventory of cleaning supplies needed
  • Estimate the quantity required based on property size and guest turnover
  • Consider purchasing in bulk or from wholesale suppliers

Cost-Saving Strategies

Businesses can employ several strategies to reduce the expense of purchasing cleaning supplies. This includes exploring eco-friendly and concentrated cleaning products that can be diluted, thus reducing the overall cost per use. Additionally, businesses can consider reusable cleaning tools and equipment to minimize ongoing expenses.

  • Explore eco-friendly and concentrated cleaning products
  • Consider reusable cleaning tools and equipment
  • Compare prices from different suppliers to find the best deals


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Professional cleaning service fees

Professional cleaning service fees are a crucial component of the operating costs for a hospitality business such as an Airbnb rental. These fees cover the cost of hiring professional cleaners to ensure that the property is thoroughly cleaned and maintained between guest stays. The fees can vary depending on a range of factors, and it's important for Airbnb hosts to budget for these expenses to ensure the cleanliness and upkeep of their rental property.

Average Cost Ranges

The average cost of professional cleaning service fees for an Airbnb rental typically ranges from $200 to $600 per month. This cost can vary based on the size of the property, the frequency of cleaning, and the level of service required. Larger properties or those with high turnover may incur higher cleaning fees, while smaller properties with less frequent turnover may fall on the lower end of the cost range.

Influencing Factors

Several key factors can influence the cost of professional cleaning services for an Airbnb rental. These factors include the size of the property, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, the level of cleanliness required, and any additional services such as laundry or restocking of guest consumables. The location of the property and the availability of professional cleaning services in the area can also impact the cost. Additionally, the reputation and experience of the cleaning service provider can influence the fees charged.

Tips for Budgeting

To effectively budget for professional cleaning service fees, Airbnb hosts should consider the specific needs of their property and the level of service required. It's important to research and obtain quotes from multiple cleaning service providers to compare costs and services offered. Hosts should also factor in the frequency of cleaning required based on the property's occupancy rate and adjust their budget accordingly. Setting aside a dedicated portion of the rental income for cleaning expenses can help ensure that these costs are consistently covered.

Cost-Saving Strategies

There are several strategies that Airbnb hosts can employ to reduce professional cleaning service fees. One approach is to establish a long-term partnership with a cleaning service provider, which may result in discounted rates for regular cleaning services. Hosts can also consider bundling additional services such as laundry or restocking of guest consumables with their cleaning service to potentially negotiate a lower overall cost. Implementing clear house rules and guidelines for guests to follow can help minimize the level of cleaning required between stays, ultimately reducing the frequency and cost of professional cleaning services.


Laundry services for linens and towels

One of the essential operating costs for a hospitality business is the laundry services for linens and towels. This expense is crucial for maintaining a clean and comfortable environment for guests, and it is important to budget for this cost accordingly.

Average Cost Ranges

The average cost for laundry services for linens and towels typically ranges from $150 to $400 per month. This cost can vary depending on the size of the property, the number of guests, and the frequency of turnover. Larger properties with higher occupancy rates may incur higher laundry expenses compared to smaller properties.

Influencing Factors

Several key factors can influence the cost of laundry services for linens and towels. These factors include the size of the property, the number of guests, the frequency of turnover, and the quality of the linens and towels. Properties with a high turnover of guests may require more frequent laundering, leading to higher costs. Additionally, using high-quality linens and towels may result in higher laundry expenses.

Tips for Budgeting

To effectively budget for laundry services, it is important for businesses to accurately estimate the number of linens and towels that will require laundering on a regular basis. Keeping track of occupancy rates and turnover frequency can help in forecasting laundry expenses. Additionally, negotiating a fixed monthly rate with a laundry service provider can provide cost predictability and aid in budgeting.

  • Estimate the number of linens and towels needed for regular laundering
  • Keep track of occupancy rates and turnover frequency
  • Negotiate a fixed monthly rate with a laundry service provider

Cost-Saving Strategies

There are several strategies that businesses can employ to reduce the cost of laundry services for linens and towels. One cost-saving strategy is to invest in high-quality, durable linens and towels that require less frequent laundering. Additionally, implementing eco-friendly practices such as encouraging guests to reuse towels can help in reducing the volume of laundry, thereby lowering costs.

  • Invest in high-quality, durable linens and towels
  • Encourage guests to reuse towels through eco-friendly practices
  • Explore the option of in-house laundering for cost savings


Wear and tear repairs for vacuum, mop, etc

Average Cost Ranges

The average cost for wear and tear repairs for vacuum, mop, and other cleaning equipment typically ranges from $50 to $200. This cost can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the type of equipment that needs repair.

Influencing Factors

Several key factors can influence the cost of wear and tear repairs for cleaning equipment. The age and quality of the equipment can impact the repair costs, with older or lower-quality equipment often requiring more frequent and costly repairs. Additionally, the frequency of use and the level of maintenance can also affect the need for repairs and the associated costs.

Tips for Budgeting

To effectively budget for wear and tear repairs, businesses should consider implementing regular maintenance schedules for their cleaning equipment. This can help identify and address minor issues before they escalate into costly repairs. It's also important to invest in high-quality equipment that is less prone to frequent breakdowns, as this can ultimately reduce long-term repair costs.

  • Implement regular maintenance schedules for cleaning equipment
  • Invest in high-quality, durable equipment
  • Train staff on proper equipment usage and maintenance

Cost-Saving Strategies

Businesses can employ several cost-saving strategies to reduce wear and tear repair expenses. One effective strategy is to purchase extended warranties or service contracts for cleaning equipment, which can help cover repair costs and minimize financial impact. Additionally, providing thorough training to staff on proper equipment usage and maintenance can help prevent unnecessary wear and tear, ultimately reducing the need for frequent repairs.

  • Purchase extended warranties or service contracts for cleaning equipment
  • Provide comprehensive staff training on equipment usage and maintenance
  • Regularly inspect equipment for signs of wear and address issues promptly


Restocking guest consumables (shampoo, toilet paper)

Restocking guest consumables such as shampoo and toilet paper is an essential part of maintaining a clean and welcoming environment for Airbnb guests. It is important to ensure that these items are always available and in good condition to provide a comfortable experience for guests.

Average Cost Ranges

The average cost of restocking guest consumables can range from $50 to $150 per month, depending on the size of the property and the number of guests. This cost includes the purchase of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, hand soap, and toilet paper. It is important to budget for these expenses to ensure that guests have a positive experience during their stay.

Influencing Factors

Several key factors can influence the cost of restocking guest consumables. These factors include the frequency of guest turnover, the quality and quantity of the items provided, and the preferences of the guests. Additionally, the size of the property and the number of bathrooms can also impact the overall cost of restocking consumables.

Tips for Budgeting

To effectively budget for restocking guest consumables, it is important to track the usage of these items and adjust the budget accordingly. Consider implementing a system to monitor the consumption of consumables and anticipate the needs of future guests. Additionally, consider purchasing items in bulk to take advantage of cost savings and discounts from suppliers.

  • Monitor consumption and adjust the budget accordingly
  • Purchase items in bulk to take advantage of cost savings
  • Anticipate the needs of future guests

Cost-Saving Strategies

There are several strategies that businesses can employ to reduce the cost of restocking guest consumables. Consider partnering with suppliers to negotiate better pricing for bulk purchases. Additionally, explore eco-friendly and sustainable options for guest consumables, which can be cost-effective in the long run. Finally, consider providing refillable dispensers for items such as shampoo and body wash to reduce packaging waste and costs.

  • Negotiate better pricing for bulk purchases
  • Explore eco-friendly and sustainable options
  • Provide refillable dispensers to reduce packaging waste


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Transportation costs for cleaners

Average Cost Ranges

The average transportation costs for cleaners typically range from $50 to $150 per month. This includes expenses such as fuel, vehicle maintenance, and insurance for the cleaners' mode of transportation.

Influencing Factors

Several key factors can influence the transportation costs for cleaners. The distance between the cleaning company's headquarters and the properties they service can significantly impact fuel expenses. Additionally, the type of vehicle used, its fuel efficiency, and the frequency of cleaning appointments can also affect transportation costs.

Tips for Budgeting

To effectively budget for transportation costs, businesses can consider implementing efficient scheduling and route planning to minimize travel time and fuel consumption. It's also important to regularly maintain and service the cleaning vehicles to ensure optimal fuel efficiency and reduce the risk of unexpected repair expenses.

  • Implement efficient scheduling and route planning
  • Regularly maintain and service cleaning vehicles

Cost-Saving Strategies

Businesses can employ various strategies to reduce transportation costs for cleaners. This can include investing in fuel-efficient vehicles, negotiating bulk fuel discounts, and exploring alternative transportation options such as public transit or carpooling for certain cleaning appointments.

  • Invest in fuel-efficient vehicles
  • Negotiate bulk fuel discounts
  • Explore alternative transportation options


Waste disposal bags and fees

Average Cost Ranges

The average cost of waste disposal bags and fees for an Airbnb cleaning business typically ranges from $20 to $100. This cost includes the purchase of waste disposal bags as well as any associated fees for waste collection and disposal.

Influencing Factors

Several key factors can influence the cost of waste disposal bags and fees for an Airbnb cleaning business. The size of the property and the amount of waste generated by guests can significantly impact the expenses. Additionally, the location of the property and the waste disposal regulations in that area can also influence the cost. For example, properties in areas with strict waste management regulations may incur higher fees for waste disposal.

Tips for Budgeting

To effectively budget for waste disposal bags and fees, Airbnb cleaning businesses can consider implementing the following tips:

  • Estimate Waste Generation: Estimate the amount of waste generated by guests and factor this into the budget for waste disposal bags and fees.
  • Research Local Regulations: Research the waste disposal regulations in the property's location to understand the potential impact on costs.
  • Use Efficient Waste Management Practices: Implement efficient waste management practices to minimize the amount of waste generated and reduce disposal costs.

Cost-Saving Strategies

To reduce the expense of waste disposal bags and fees, Airbnb cleaning businesses can consider the following cost-saving strategies:

  • Recycling Programs: Implement recycling programs to reduce the amount of waste that requires disposal, potentially lowering associated fees.
  • Negotiate Waste Collection Contracts: Negotiate contracts with waste collection providers to secure favorable rates for waste disposal services.
  • Invest in Reusable Waste Containers: Consider investing in reusable waste containers to minimize the need for disposable bags and reduce ongoing expenses.


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Employee wages or contractor payments

Average Cost Ranges

The average cost of employee wages or contractor payments for Airbnb cleaning can range from $500 to $1500 per month. This cost can vary depending on the size of the property, the frequency of cleaning, and the level of service required.

Influencing Factors

Several key factors can influence the cost of employee wages or contractor payments for Airbnb cleaning. These factors include the location of the property, the experience and expertise of the cleaners, the demand for cleaning services in the area, and the specific cleaning requirements of the property.

Tips for Budgeting

When budgeting for employee wages or contractor payments, it is important for businesses to carefully assess their cleaning needs and establish a clear cleaning schedule. This can help optimize the use of cleaning resources and ensure that the cost is effectively managed. Additionally, businesses should consider negotiating rates with cleaning contractors and exploring the option of hiring part-time or freelance cleaners to reduce costs.

Cost-Saving Strategies

There are several cost-saving strategies that businesses can employ to reduce the expense of employee wages or contractor payments for Airbnb cleaning. These strategies include investing in efficient cleaning equipment and supplies to improve productivity, implementing eco-friendly cleaning practices to reduce the use of expensive cleaning products, and cross-training employees to perform multiple cleaning tasks, thereby reducing the need for additional staff.


Property maintenance for guest-related wear

Property maintenance for guest-related wear refers to the costs associated with repairing and replacing items in your rental property that have been damaged or worn out by guests. This can include anything from furniture and appliances to linens and towels. It is an essential aspect of running a successful Airbnb or vacation rental business, as maintaining a clean and well-maintained property is crucial for guest satisfaction and positive reviews.

Average Cost Ranges

The average cost of property maintenance for guest-related wear can range from $100 to $500 per month, depending on the size of your property and the level of wear and tear it experiences. Larger properties with more guests are likely to incur higher maintenance costs, while smaller properties may fall on the lower end of the range.

Influencing Factors

Several key factors can influence the cost of property maintenance for guest-related wear. These include the frequency of guest turnover, the quality of the items in your property, and the type of guests you typically host. Properties with high guest turnover are likely to experience more wear and tear, while hosting guests who are less careful or respectful of the property can also lead to higher maintenance costs.

Tips for Budgeting

To effectively budget for property maintenance expenses, it is important to keep detailed records of the wear and tear your property experiences. This can help you anticipate and plan for future maintenance costs. Additionally, setting aside a portion of your rental income specifically for maintenance expenses can help ensure that you have the necessary funds when repairs or replacements are needed.

  • Keep detailed records of property maintenance expenses
  • Set aside a portion of rental income for maintenance
  • Regularly inspect the property for signs of wear and tear

Cost-Saving Strategies

There are several strategies that businesses can employ to reduce property maintenance expenses. Investing in high-quality, durable items for your property can help minimize the need for frequent repairs and replacements. Additionally, performing regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and address issues before they become more costly to fix.

  • Invest in high-quality, durable items for your property
  • Perform regular maintenance and inspections
  • Consider offering a security deposit to incentivize guests to take better care of the property


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