Maximize your rental profits and guest satisfaction by knowing when to deep clean — and when a standard turnover cleaning is all you need.
When you manage an Airbnb or short-term rental, cleanliness isn’t just a detail — it’s the foundation of your success. Every guest expects spotless spaces, fresh linens, and a “just like new” feel. But keeping your property in perfect shape takes more than quick turnovers.
The key is knowing when to schedule a deep cleaning and how it differs from your standard turnover service. Here’s how to strike the perfect balance to keep 5-star reviews flowing — without overspending.
What’s the Difference Between Deep Cleaning and Standard Turnover Cleaning?
Standard Turnover Cleaning
This is the cleaning your property gets between every guest stay. The goal? Make it look, smell, and feel perfectly ready for the next arrival.
A standard turnover typically includes:
Changing and laundering linens and towels
Wiping and sanitizing surfaces
Cleaning bathrooms and kitchens
Vacuuming and mopping floors
Emptying trash and restocking supplies
It’s fast, efficient, and keeps your rental guest-ready day after day.
Pro tip: At Botanical Maids, we use eco-friendly, non-toxic products options, so your property stays safe for guests, pets, and the planet.
Deep Cleaning
A deep clean goes far beyond the surface. It’s the reset button your property needs every few months to stay in top shape — especially if you have frequent bookings or long-term stays.
A deep cleaning includes everything in a standard turnover, plus:
Scrubbing grout, baseboards, and behind furniture
Cleaning inside appliances (fridge, oven, microwave)
Washing walls, light switches, vents, and window tracks
Treating hard-to-reach dust and buildup
Inspecting for maintenance issues or damages
Essentially, a deep clean ensures every inch of your rental sparkles — even the areas your guests never see directly but definitely notice subconsciously.
How Often Should You Deep Clean Your Airbnb?
A good rule of thumb:
🗓️ Every 3–6 months for high-turnover rentals
🗓️ Every 6–12 months for lower-traffic or seasonal rentals
Other signs it’s time for a deep cleaning:
You’ve had back-to-back guests for months
You notice lingering odors or stains
Guests mention cleanliness in reviews
You’re preparing for professional photography or inspection
Remember, even if your cleaners are great (and they should be!), there’s a limit to what can be achieved during quick turnovers.
Cost vs. Benefit: Why Skipping Deep Cleans Costs You More
Some hosts hesitate to schedule deep cleanings because of the extra cost. But here’s the truth: bad reviews are more expensive than deep cleaning.
Let’s break it down:
Expense | Average Cost | Potential Impact |
|---|---|---|
Standard Turnover Cleaning | $100–$150 | Keeps property guest-ready |
Deep Cleaning | $250–$400 | Extends property life, prevents complaints |
One Bad Review | $0 upfront — but costly | Can lower booking rates by 20%+ |
Poor cleanliness ratings can tank your listing visibility and lead to fewer bookings or the dreaded “This place wasn’t as clean as expected” comment that drives guests away.
- Regular deep cleaning keeps your property’s “superhost” shine.
- It protects your investment by preventing wear and tear.
- It saves you from emergency clean-ups or negative guest feedback.
Situation | Cleaning Type | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
Between every guest | Standard Turnover | Every stay |
After 10+ consecutive stays | Deep Cleaning | Every 3 months |
Seasonal change or inspection | Deep Cleaning | Every 6 months |
Preparing for new photos or updates | Deep Cleaning | As needed |
Routine guest turnover | Standard Turnover | Ongoing |
The Botanical Maids Approach
At Botanical Maids, we specialize in Airbnb and short-term rental cleanings designed for hosts who care about quality and guest satisfaction.
Our cleaners are trained to notice what guests notice — and our deep cleaning services bring your property back to “like new” condition with eco-conscious products and precise detail work.