Woman vacuuming ottoman couch in Airbnb in Austin.
June 25, 2024

12 Tips to Reduce Dust in Your Airbnb: A Guide for Hosts

As an Airbnb host, maintaining a clean and inviting space for your guests is crucial. One of the biggest challenges in achieving this is managing dust. Dust not only detracts from the overall cleanliness of your space but can also trigger allergies and negatively impact your guests’ experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to reduce dust in your Airbnb, ensuring a pristine environment that will delight your guests and earn you rave reviews.

Person sweeping under couch as dust flies into the air.

Contents

1. Establish a Regular Cleaning Schedule

Consistency is key when it comes to dust control. Set up a regular cleaning schedule that includes the following:

  • Weekly Tasks (or in between guests): Thoroughly vacuum carpets and rugs, mop hard floors, dust all surfaces including furniture and decor, and wash bedding and linens.
  • Monthly Tasks: Clean air vents, vacuum under furniture and appliances, and wash or replace HVAC filters.

2. Use High-Quality Air Filters

Investing in high-quality air filters for your HVAC system can significantly reduce the amount of dust in your home. Look for filters with a high MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating, which can trap smaller particles more effectively. Change these filters every three months or according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

3. Opt for Hard Flooring

Carpets are notorious for trapping dust and can be difficult to clean thoroughly. If possible, opt for hard flooring options like hardwood, tile, or laminate. These surfaces are easier to clean and do not harbor dust mites as carpets do.

Of course, if your rental property in Austin currently has carpet, we understand that a full flooring renovation may not always be on the books. However, keeping hardwood floors in mind for any future investments may help to reduce dust accumulation (and be a bonus for any potential guests who view your listing).

4. Minimize Clutter

Clutter not only makes a space look untidy but also provides more surfaces for dust to settle. Keep your Airbnb as clutter-free as possible. Use storage solutions like baskets, bins, and shelves to organize items neatly. Less clutter means fewer surfaces to clean and a more streamlined dusting routine.

Plus, it helps create a tidy and relaxing space for your guests.

5. Dust with Microfiber Cloths

When dusting, use microfiber cloths instead of traditional dusters. Microfiber cloths are designed to trap dust rather than just moving it around. They can also be used dry or slightly dampened for more effective dust removal. Remember to dust from top to bottom to avoid spreading dust onto already cleaned surfaces.

Woman vacuuming ottoman couch in Airbnb in Austin.

6. Wash Bedding and Linens Regularly

Bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers, can accumulate dust quickly. While these materials should always be washed in between bookings, it’s also important to consider things like couch covers, decorative pillows, and mattresses. Vacuuming or cleaning these materials regularly, such as in between stays, will easily keep dust at bay and ensure the optimal cleanliness and safety for your guests.

7. Clean Window Treatments

While easy to go unnoticed in the cleaning process, curtains, blinds, and other window treatments should also be cleaned in between stays, as these materials are like magnets for dust. Wash curtains and wipe down blinds regularly to prevent dust accumulation. For easy maintenance, consider using machine-washable curtains and dust-resistant blinds.

8. Control Humidity Levels

Dust mites thrive in humid environments and in Austin’s hot and humid climate, sometimes we need a little extra house keeping our home’s and rental properties in a lower humidity range.

Use a dehumidifier to keep the humidity levels in your Airbnb between 30% and 50%. This not only reduces dust mite populations but also helps in controlling mold growth, which can contribute to dust.

Additionally, using a dehumidifier contributes to the overall comfort of your guests, and helps to make the space feel cooler during warmer months.

9. Use Doormats

Place doormats at all entrances to your Airbnb to reduce the amount of dirt and dust brought in from outside. You might also consider providing a shoe rack or asking guests to remove their shoes inside the house. Taking these measures will make the clean up in between guests that much easier and help to protect your flooring and furniture.

10. Groom Pets Regularly

If your Airbnb is pet-friendly, keep in mind that pets can contribute significantly to dust through shedding fur and dander. Use air purifiers to help reduce pet dander in the air and consider investing in a vacuum that is adept at cleaning up pet hair.

Additionally, you may consider adding an additional fee or deposit for guests who bring their pets along for their stay.

Woman pressing button to turn on air purifier in Airbnb to reduce dust.

11. Invest in Air Purifiers

Air purifiers with HEPA filters can effectively trap dust particles and other allergens or pathogens, improving the air quality in your Airbnb. Place air purifiers in key areas like bedrooms and living rooms to ensure the air your guests breathe is clean and fresh. Don’t be shy to include this feature in your rental listing, as it may provide comfort to those who suffer from allergies, asthma, or other help conditions.

12. Create House Rules for Your Guests

Help your guests help you by setting clear expectations and property rules. This may include taking their shoes off at the door, explaining your cleaning fees, deposits and expectations, and anything else that may apply to your property.

Enlist the Help of an Airbnb Cleaning Company

Maintaining a dust-free and spotless rental property is essential for providing a stellar guest experience and earning top ratings on Airbnb. While managing dust and cleanliness can be challenging, Magic Helpers is here to make it effortless. Our professional Airbnb cleaning services are designed to ensure your property remains pristine, welcoming, and ready for every guest. From thorough dusting and vacuuming to deep cleaning and sanitizing, we handle every detail, allowing you to focus on what you do best – hosting. Trust Magic Helpers to keep your rental property in impeccable condition, enhancing guest satisfaction and maximizing your rental’s success.

12 Tips to Reduce Dust in Your Airbnb: A Guide for Hosts