Keeping Your Short-Term Rental “COVID Clean”
People might be booking, but the COVID-19 pandemic is still a very real concern and needs to be handled accordingly. Knowing how to clean properly to avoid spread can feel like a daunting issue, especially since the virus’ shelf-life varies from surface to surface. What can you do to ensure your short-term rental property is safe for guests and you?
AirBnb announced its updated five-step cleaning protocol to assist renters during this pandemic. Hosts who commit to this will gain a special highlight on their page.
First, what’s the difference between cleaning and disinfecting? The CDC defines the terms as follows:
Cleaning refers to the removal of germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces. It does not kill germs, but by removing them, it lowers their numbers and the risk of spreading infection.
Disinfecting refers to using chemicals, for example, EPA-registered disinfectants, to kill germs on surfaces. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but by killing germs on a surface after cleaning, it can further lower the risk of spreading infection.
So, with your STR, it’s smart to practice both cleaning and disinfecting. Here are some extra tips on how to keep your STR appealing and clean during the pandemic.
AVOID RENTING TO LARGE GROUPS
Local laws might even prohibit this, depending on the size of your space. Stay up to date on local ordinances on the maximum number of guests allowed for a social gathering. It also might be a good idea to request renters to remove their shoes while inside your property.
AIR OUT YOUR UNIT
Since COVID spreads dangerously through micro-respiratory droplets confined in enclosed areas, it’s important to ventilate your rental property between guests. Make sure this is done prior to any cleaning. It’s not a bad idea to enter the unit wearing PPE, such as a face mask and gloves. If you rent a shared space, always ventilate the common areas on a regular basis.
LEAVE CLEANING SUPPLIES FOR GUESTS
Disinfectant wipes (if you can find them) and hand sanitizer or antibacterial hand soap, for example, are great ways to encourage guests to avoid leaving any potential COVID trail. Mention in your ad that you offer these things. It could lure the cautious renters.
DISINFECT HIGH-TOUCH AREAS
This includes light switches, lamp switches, the kitchen countertop, any kind of electronic button, such as a remote control or washer/dryer unit. Tips on how to use this property have been provided by the CDC.
WASH IN HIGH HEAT
All linens and dishes should be washed to the highest heat settings allowed by the manufacturers. While time-consuming, don’t just wash the dirty dishes or soiled laundry either. Remember to wash the clean ones as well, as they might have been touched or handled by asymptomatic carriers.
This is by no means an exhaustive list. Always keep your own checkpoints documented, and keep up-to-date on national and local regulations.