5 Bathroom Cleaning Details Airbnb Hosts Always Miss (But Guests Notice Instantly)
First impressions in the bathroom can make or break a 5-star review. Your guest may not say “Wow, the toilet base was sparkling!”, but they’ll definitely notice if it’s NOT. As STR owners, it’s our job to go beyond surface-level shine and catch the sneaky spots that can tank a cleanliness rating.
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Here are five often-missed bathroom cleaning details you should never skip, plus some high-quality, guest-worthy tools to help you do it right.
- The Base of the Toilet
It’s easy to focus on the bowl and lid, but the base of the toilet is where dust, hair, and mystery drips love to hide. This is especially noticeable on tile or light-colored flooring. Guests in bare feet? They’ll see it all.
Recommended Tool:
Toilet Brush and Holder Set
This minimalist, high-end toilet brush looks great in modern bathrooms and doesn’t scream “used brush in a cup.” It has a discreet canister, a flexible head that reaches under rims and around bases, and it’s built for a luxe vibe. I’m LOVING the rose gold option!
- The Corner Where the Tub Meets the Floor and Wall
This tiny crevice collects soap scum, grime, and mildew. It’s also where water splashes and settles, especially if the tub is used frequently. Cleaning here keeps things fresh and helps prevent long-term damage.
Pro tip: make sure the caulking is always in tip top shape!
Recommended Tool:
Deep Clean Brush Set
This duo of small scrub brushes is perfect for corners, grout lines, and awkward edges. Durable and ergonomic, they’re a must for tight spots. Who knew we needed a WIPER BLADE feature?!
- Behind the Faucet
That little area behind and around the faucet base tends to trap water spots, soap residue, and toothpaste. Guests washing their hands or brushing their teeth will see it, and a sticky or moldy faucet base doesn’t scream luxury.
Recommended Tool:
Sponge Bottle Brush
While marketed for bottles, the soft sponges are ideal for cleaning around fixtures. Plus, it’s sleek enough to keep with your regular cleaning supplies without cluttering the bathroom.
- Behind the Bathroom Door (Yes, Close It!)
Many cleaners overlook the back of the bathroom door because it’s usually open while cleaning. But once your guest closes it for privacy? They’ll see dusty panels, smudges, or even a hanging towel from the last guest (MAJOR cringe!).
Pro Tip: Always close the door fully during turnover to check it from the guest’s perspective.
Recommended Tool:
All-Purpose High Performance Microfiber Cloths
Eco-friendly and effective — these microfiber cloths leave no streaks or lint, perfect for door panels, knobs, and mirror touch-ups.
- Tub or Shower Drain for Hairs
Even if everything else is spotless, one hair in the shower drain can instantly feel gross to a guest. Be sure to lift or clean around drain covers every single time. Double and TRIPLE check this!
Recommended Tool:
Shower & Tub Silicone Drain Protector
This easy-to-remove, sleek drain protector catches hair before it becomes a problem. It’s a discreet but powerful addition to keep your cleaning routine quick and your drains clear.
Final Thoughts: It’s the Little Things
In short-term rentals, guests equate cleanliness with care. These five easily-missed areas are tiny details, and they can make a huge impact on how your space is perceived. A sparkling bathroom says, “We see you. We prepared for you, and want to make sure you feel totally comfortable.”
Investing in quality cleaning tools that are durable, effective, and fit the aesthetic of a luxury (or not!) rental pays off every single stay. And let’s be real…nobody wants to explain a negative review about a dirty drain ever again.
