What Airbnb Has Changed
Airbnb has announced new rules that stop hosts from handing guests a long list of checkout chores. Hosts can no longer require time-consuming tasks like stripping beds, doing laundry, washing dishes or taking rubbish offsite. The policy takes effect on 20 November and applies to reservations booked on or after that date, so it will not change stays you have already booked.
Why Guests Have Been Frustrated
For years, travellers have complained about being asked to clean while also paying a cleaning fee. A checkout list that reads like a job description is the last thing you want on departure morning, and many guests have said it made them think twice about booking an Airbnb at all.
Simple Requests Are Still Allowed
Hosts can ask you to leave used dishes in the sink, gather used towels and sort rubbish and recycling into designated bins inside the property. The rule of thumb is that anything taking significant effort or time, or something a cleaner would normally handle, is off limits and should be left for the cleaning team.
Other Protections for Guests
Hosts cannot charge you extra for skipping a task, and any requests must be listed before you book. They also cannot add or change rules after your booking is confirmed. Cleaning fees themselves are staying, but they are meant to cover a standard tidy between guests.
What This Means for Your Next Booking
Even though the rules start on 20 November, it pays to read the house rules on any listing before you book. If you see a long chore list on a booking made after the change, that is something Airbnb says hosts need to remove. Hosts who repeatedly break the policy can face penalties, including lower visibility in search results.
Not Everyone Is Celebrating
The internet is largely rejoicing, but hosts have raised concerns about guests leaving properties in poor condition. Airbnb still expects guests to leave a place in a reasonable state, so tidying up after yourself remains part of being a good guest.
What is the worst checkout chore you have been handed? Drop it in the comments and follow 5 Star Trip for more.
