Airbnb bans checkout chores: Hosts can't force guests to strip beds or do dishes
Airbnb is implementing new rules that prohibit hosts from requiring guests to perform significant cleaning tasks, such as stripping beds or washing dishes, upon checkout. The policy aims to address guest complaints about excessive chores and cleaning fees, though some hosts have expressed concern over property maintenance.
Why it matters
This shift reflects a broader effort by the platform to standardize the guest experience and address long-standing friction points in the short-term rental market.
Airbnb is introducing new rules for hosts and guests. These new rules restrict the checkout tasks hosts can require guests to complete. The policy, which applies to bookings made on or after November 20, prohibits hosts from asking guests to do cleaning duties typically handled by professional cleaners. These include stripping beds, taking rubbish offsite and washing and putting away dishes.The company has also said hosts cannot bypass the restrictions by moving such instructions to other sections of their listings or providing printed checkout lists. The announcement has triggered criticism from some hosts, who argue that the changes limit their ability to protect their properties, while some travellers have welcomed the move amid longstanding complaints about cleaning fees and checkout chores.What Airbnb's new policy saysAccording to a WIRED report, Airbnb emailed hosts this week to inform them of the changes.
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