With miles of stunning beaches and a constant flow of tourists, Destin, Florida is a top choice for Airbnb hosts and vacation property owners. But in such a competitive short-term rental market, aesthetics and amenities aren’t enough—cleanliness is what earns you those coveted 5-star reviews.
Whether you’re managing the property yourself or hiring help, maintaining hotel-level cleanliness is non-negotiable. Here’s how to prepare your Destin Airbnb for consistent, review-worthy shine.
Understand What “5-Star Clean” Means to Guests
For many guests, cleanliness is more than just no visible dust—it’s about confidence. They want to feel that:
- The property was cleaned thoroughly just before they arrived
- High-touch surfaces are sanitized
- Bathrooms sparkle and smell fresh
- Linens are crisp and unstained
- There are no signs of previous guests
One stray hair in the shower or sticky spot in the kitchen can break that trust—and your chance at a great review.
Start With a Professional Deep Clean (Then Maintain It)
Before you even list—or relist—your Airbnb, schedule a full deep cleaning. That includes:
- Steam-cleaning carpets and upholstery
- Scrubbing tile grout and disinfecting bathrooms
- Cleaning behind appliances, inside drawers, and under beds
- Washing windows, baseboards, vents, and ceiling fans
- Checking for mold in high-moisture areas (especially in coastal homes)
In Destin, where sand, salt, and humidity are constant factors, deep cleaning isn’t just cosmetic—it prevents long-term damage and mildew.
Build a Turnover Checklist That Leaves Nothing to Chance
After deep cleaning, create a room-by-room checklist for routine turnover cleaning between guests. This should include:
- Sanitizing all surfaces and remotes
- Emptying and wiping fridge, oven, and microwave
- Replacing linens and checking for stains or tears
- Restocking paper goods, soap, and coffee supplies
- Inspecting for forgotten items or damage
- Replacing trash liners in every bin
A written system ensures nothing gets overlooked, even if you’re outsourcing or managing remotely.
Address Florida-Specific Cleaning Challenges
1. Sand & Salt
Provide entry rugs and a shoe-free policy to reduce tracked-in sand. Vacuum floors and wipe down windowsills frequently.
2. Humidity & Mold
Use dehumidifiers and keep AC running between stays. Clean vents and inspect for condensation or musty smells.
3. Pests
Seal food tightly, empty trash bins promptly, and check under sinks for leaks.
Make Your Cleaning Feel Like Hospitality
Cleanliness is also about presentation. Here’s what elevates an already clean space:
- Fold towels and linens hotel-style
- Use light, neutral air fresheners (no overpowering scents)
- Place a small cleaning kit in a cabinet for guest use
- Include a card saying, “This home was professionally cleaned just for you”
These small touches reassure guests and make the cleaning feel intentional—not just routine.
Consider Hiring Local Pros for Consistency
Managing cleaning on your own—especially during back-to-back bookings—is tough. Services like Sharky Cleaning in Destin offer:
- Flexible scheduling based on your guest calendar
- Deep and turnover cleaning tailored for Airbnb properties
- Use of eco-friendly, anti-humidity products
- Quality control checks and damage reporting
Having a professional team can be the difference between “mostly clean” and “flawless.”
Leave No Doubts for Guests
In the end, your guests won’t remember the thread count on your sheets—but they will remember if the place smelled musty, the fridge had fingerprints, or the bathroom wasn’t spotless.
First impressions are made the moment the door opens. In Destin’s fast-paced rental scene, 5-star cleanliness isn’t optional—it’s the standard.
