Whether to clean your short-term rental yourself or hire a cleaner depends on various factors, including your availability, the size of your property, your cleaning skills, and your budget.
As we detail in our free e-book for hosts and property managers, if you do outsource this work, employing the right cleaner is of paramount importance. Your cleaner must understand the business and know they are the first line of defence. In the majority of cases, it will be your cleaner who visits the rental much more than you do. They will be the first to know about any problems and will need to be briefed to highlight these right away.
When it comes to deciding whether you should clean yourself or hire somebody, here are some considerations to help you make an informed decision:
Benefits of cleaning yourself
1. Cost savings
Cleaning the property yourself can save money, especially if you're just starting and have a limited budget.
2. Control over cleaning standards
Cleaning your property personally gives you direct control over the cleanliness standards. You can ensure that every detail is attended to according to your preferences.
3. Flexibility
You have the flexibility to choose when to clean, allowing you to accommodate last-minute bookings or unexpected changes in your schedule.
4. Connection with guests
Cleaning your property provides an opportunity to personally inspect the condition of your space, allowing you to address any issues promptly and maintain a personal connection with your guests.
Benefits of hiring a cleaner
1. Time savings
If you have multiple properties or a busy schedule, hiring a cleaner can save you a significant amount of time. This allows you to focus on other aspects of your short-term rental business.
2. Consistent quality
Professional cleaners are trained to maintain a consistent standard of cleanliness. They have the expertise and tools to ensure that every cleaning is thorough and meets industry standards.
3. Scalability
As your business grows and you acquire more properties or experience higher booking volumes, a cleaner can help you scale your cleaning operations more efficiently than if you were to do it all yourself.
4. Reduced physical strain
Cleaning can be physically demanding, especially for larger properties. Hiring a cleaner can help you avoid the physical strain associated with regular cleaning tasks.
5. Professional presentation
Professional cleaning contributes to the overall presentation of your property. Guests often appreciate a well-maintained and professionally cleaned space, which can lead to positive reviews and repeat bookings.
6. Insurance and liability
Professional cleaners often carry liability insurance, providing an additional layer of protection in case of accidental damage or issues related to the cleaning process.
7. Consistency in supplies
Professional cleaners usually bring their own cleaning supplies, ensuring consistency and eliminating the need for you to manage and restock cleaning products.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal circumstances, preferences, and business goals. Many property owners find a balance by cleaning their properties personally initially and then transitioning to hiring a cleaner as their business expands. Others prefer to focus on the strategic aspects of property management and delegate cleaning to professionals from the start. Consider your resources, time availability, and the level of cleanliness you want to maintain to make the decision that aligns with your goals and priorities.
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