Airbnb is implementing significant changes to its house rules, limiting the cleaning tasks hosts can demand from guests. This policy shift, effective for all reservations booked on or after November 20, aims to address widespread guest complaints about unreasonable chores, particularly when cleaning fees are already part of the booking.
Under the updated guidelines, hosts are generally prohibited from asking guests to complete tasks that require substantial effort or time, or duties typically performed by a professional cleaner. Specific examples include stripping beds, taking trash offsite, or washing and putting away dishes.
Why the Change?
For years, guests have voiced frustration over being expected to perform extensive cleaning before departure, often in addition to paying a cleaning fee. Airbnb acknowledged these concerns, stating that previous house rules were often confusing, onerous, and difficult to manage. The new design seeks to make rules clearer and easier to set, ensuring requests remain reasonable and without surprises for guests.
What Hosts Can Still Request
While major cleaning tasks are off the table, the policy does not entirely prevent hosts from making requests. Hosts can still set seven standard house rules and add other “reasonable” requests. Exceptions may also be granted in specific circumstances, such as limiting shower time due to local drought-related water restrictions.
Property rules will also be made more prominent for guests, appearing in reservation reminders. Although hosts will not be able to impose fines, they retain control over their house rules and requests. If a host's request is flagged for not complying with Airbnb policies, the owner will have the opportunity to appeal.
The debate around guest cleaning tasks has gained considerable attention on social media, with viral videos highlighting both guest frustrations and host expectations. This policy update represents Airbnb's response to this community feedback, aiming to enhance the guest experience and clarify host responsibilities.