How to Set Up a Successful Airbnb

Georgi Todorov and Galib Galib bring over a decade of hands-on experience in the short-term rental industry. A well-organized setup is the foundation of success, where property management, cleaning teams, and owners work together to deliver a consistent guest experience.

Bedding & Linens

Quick turnovers require heavy preparation. We recommend having at least three full sets of linens per bed. This ensures backups are always ready for the next guest without high-pressure laundry runs.

Towel Sets Per Guest

1 Bath towel
1 Hand towel
1 Fresh washcloth
1 Beach towel (optional)

Consistency & Style

Use the same brand and style for a professional look. Either go all white or no white at all. Darker duvet covers are recommended to be a different color from white.

Guest Supplies

Provincetown is a premium market; cutting corners leads to negative reviews. Stock bathroom and kitchen essentials generously to ensure guest comfort and satisfaction.

Hand soap: 1 bottle + 1 refill per sink
Toilet paper: 3 rolls per bathroom per week
Paper towels: 1 roll in use + 1 backup
Trash bags: appropriately sized for every bin
Dishwasher and laundry detergent
Plunger and toilet bowl brush
Body wash, shampoo, and conditioner: dispensers and refills
Shower curtains and replacement liners, if needed
Tissues (optional)
Body lotion (optional)
Sunscreen (optional)
Feminine hygiene products (optional)

Operations & Access

Provide cleaning teams with dedicated keys.
Install at lockboxes for smooth check-ins.
Get some extra keys for use during the stay

Elevated Amenities

Details matter: provide body lotion, shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, and bottled water. Ensure WiFi is fast and credentials are clearly displayed for easy connection.

The House Manual

Provide a printed or digital house manual with clear check-in and check-out instructions, house rules, appliance guides, and local recommendations. This helps guests feel welcome, reduces questions, and sets clear expectations.

Include both your property’s rules and any applicable condominium rules. Make sure guests receive these before arrival.

Your guide should cover:

Check-in: Arrival time, entry instructions, and where to find keys.
Check-out: Clearly state the exact deadline—usually 10:00 a.m. Guests must vacate the property by that time so the cleaning team can prepare for the next arrival. Late check-out incurs a minimum charge of $100.
Departure checklist: Instructions for dishes, trash, used towels, keys, and locking doors and windows.
Property rules: Smoking, pets, visitors, maximum occupancy, parties, and use of outdoor spaces.
Condominium rules: Quiet hours, shared areas, parking, trash disposal, and any building-specific restrictions.
Parking: Assigned spaces, parking restrictions, and nearby alternatives.
Wi-Fi: Network name and password.
Appliances: Instructions for heating, air conditioning, televisions, kitchen appliances, and laundry equipment.
Supplies: Where to find extra linens, toiletries, and cleaning supplies.
Safety and contacts: Emergency information, the property address, and whom to contact for maintenance or urgent assistance.
Local recommendations: Restaurants, beaches, transportation, and nearby attractions.

Final Thought

Success on Airbnb is about creating a consistent, hotel-quality experience. When owners and cleaners work together as one team, the result is better reviews and stronger long-term returns.

Download the checklist xls