Short turnovers are one thing—strip the beds, wipe the counters, vacuum the sand, and the property is ready for the next arrival. But in Destin, many vacation rentals aren’t occupied for just a weekend. Guests often stay for weeks or even months, enjoying the coastal lifestyle while putting every part of the home to steady use. When those guests check out, the cleaning challenge is on a completely different level.
I’m Andrey Zhilin, cleaning expert at Sharky, and I’ve helped many Destin homeowners restore their properties after long-term rentals. Here’s what you can expect—and how to handle it.
What long-term stays leave behind
Unlike short-term rentals where wear is minimal, extended stays mean the home has essentially been “lived in.” Kitchens are the first to show it: greasy backsplash tiles, oven residue, and dishwashers with clogged filters. Bathrooms build up layers of limescale, soap scum, and moisture spots. Upholstery and fabrics absorb cooking odors, sunscreen, and even salt air. And in humid Destin, long-term stays can leave behind mustiness if the AC system wasn’t properly maintained.
How post-stay cleaning is different
Cleaning after long-term guests isn’t just a matter of replacing linens. It often requires:
- Deep disinfection of kitchens and bathrooms, including grout and caulking.
- Appliance checks to remove buildup in fridges, ovens, and dishwashers.
- Fabric refresh for sofas, curtains, and carpets that absorbed odors.
- Moisture and air quality control, ensuring humidity hasn’t created mold in hidden corners.
- Outdoor reset, as balconies, patios, and pools may be heavily used and left sandy or stained.
Best practices for Destin homeowners
To keep your property in prime condition after long-term tenants:
- Schedule a deep clean every 1–3 months if guests stay for extended periods.
- Use dehumidifiers and hygrometers to keep indoor humidity below 55%.
- Request mid-stay inspections for rentals lasting over a month, with photos to catch issues early.
- Track minor damage immediately, such as scratches on wood floors or stains on upholstery, before they worsen.
When to call professionals
There’s a point where DIY just won’t cut it. If guests stayed for more than two months, if there are lingering odors, or if appliances and pools were heavily used without maintenance, professional cleaners are the only way to reset the property. With industrial-grade equipment and experience in Destin’s climate, a pro team can restore freshness, sanitize effectively, and leave the property ready for either new guests or owner occupancy.
Long-term guests bring steady rental income, but they also leave deeper cleaning needs behind. In Destin’s humid, coastal environment, ignoring those needs can shorten the life of finishes, lower property ratings, and reduce long-term value. A proper post-stay deep clean isn’t just about appearances—it’s about protecting your investment for the seasons to come.
— Andrey Zhilin, Cleaning Expert at Sharky
Read also: Why Professional Cleaning Increases Property Value in Destin
