A consistent turnover clean is the difference between a 4.6 and a 4.9 rating. It's not about speed — it's about never missing a step. This is the exact room-by-room checklist our cleaning team follows on every Airbnb turnover in Edinburgh.
A standard 1-bed flat takes 60–90 minutes. A 2-bed, about 90–120 minutes. Work top to bottom in every room (dust falls down), and start with the bathroom or kitchen since they take longest.
Print this checklist and laminate it. Leave one at each property. Your cleaner ticks off each item as they go. Consistency is what gets you 5-star reviews.
Tips From Our Cleaners
- ·Work top to bottom: Dust falls. Clean high shelves before mopping the floor.
- ·Bring your own supplies: Don't rely on what's in the flat. A caddy with your kit means you're never stuck.
- ·The bed is the first thing guests judge: Hospital corners. Fresh-smelling linens. Pillows plumped. Make it look like a hotel.
- ·Smell matters as much as sight: Open windows during the clean. A light, clean scent. No heavy air freshener — it smells like you're covering something up.
- ·Photos are non-negotiable: 5-6 photos after every clean. Kitchen, bathroom, bed made, living room, one overview. This protects you AND the host.
- ·Check the shower drain: Hair in the drain is the #1 thing guests mention in negative cleanliness reviews. Every. Single. Time.
- ·Wipe the remote control: It's the dirtiest thing in the flat. Guests notice when it's sticky.
- ·Leave a welcome touch: A neatly arranged welcome card, fresh flowers from the garden, or simply perfectly aligned cushions. Small details create the feeling.
How Long Should a Turnover Take?
These times assume the property is in standard condition after a normal guest stay. Heavy soiling, late checkouts, or properties that haven't been deep cleaned in a while will take longer.
Don't want to manage this yourself?
We follow this exact checklist on every clean. Auto-scheduled from your calendar. Photos sent to you when it's done. Same cleaner every time.