At itsGLO Cleaning, we manage and clean numerous Airbnb properties in Toronto, giving us firsthand insight into what truly works for long-term success. Some hosts waste time and money on unnecessary things, while others streamline their processes and make their rentals last for years with minimal upkeep.
In this article, we’re sharing proven strategies to help you cut costs, protect your space, and maintain an Airbnb that runs smoothly with minimal effort.
We’ll cover smart money-saving investments, organization hacks, and essential cleaning strategies to keep your rental in top condition. Whether you’re an experienced Airbnb host or just getting started, by the end of this article, you’ll have a clear strategy to operate your short-term rental efficiently while saving time and money.
Why Trust This Advice?
This isn’t just general advice—it’s a playbook based on real-world experience managing dozens of Airbnbs in Toronto. Instead of learning from costly mistakes, take a few minutes to read this and gain insights that will save you stress, expenses, and headaches.
Part 1: Smart Airbnb Hacks to Protect Your Property & Save Money
1 - Use Bed Bug-Proof Mattress & Pillow Protectors
Why It Matters: Bed bugs are a nightmare for Airbnb hosts. Not only can they destroy your reputation, but treatment costs thousands of dollars, and you may need to cancel bookings while fixing the issue.
The Smart Move: Invest in bed bug-proof mattress and pillow protectors to create a barrier against infestations. This small upfront investment can prevent major financial losses.
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2 - Choose Durable, Fast-Drying Bed Sheets
Why It Matters: Some hosts opt for high-thread-count cotton sheets, thinking they provide luxury. However, these sheets take longer to dry, stain easily, and require more maintenance—costing you time and money in the long run.
The Smart Airbnb Hack: Go for microfiber or a cotton-poly blend. These materials:
Dry quickly (reducing turnover time)
Resist stains (fewer replacements)
Are more affordable (higher ROI over time)
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3 - Stick to Dark or Neutral-Colored Towels
Why It Matters: White towels may look luxurious, but they quickly show stains from makeup, spills, and general use. Constant replacements drive up costs.
The Smart Move: Use gray or navy towels to hide minor stains and extend their lifespan. If you prefer white towels, choose bleach-safe ones to keep them looking fresh longer. but with women guests who might use towels to wipe make up off, or wear and tear due to use, grey or darker ones are always a better option. Make sure to also choose a quick drying one.
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4 - Use Refillable Toiletry Dispensers Instead of Single-Use Bottles
Why It Matters: Guests often take single-use shampoos, conditioners, and soaps home with them. This means constant restocking, which adds up quickly.
The Smart Move: Install wall-mounted, or loose refillable dispensers—they look professional, are cost-effective, and reduce plastic waste. You can also invest in premium ones like an aesop and then refill it with over the counter nice smelling soap. This will elevate your look as a professional airbnb and enhance the guest experience.
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5 - Go for a Pour-Over Coffee Maker Instead of a Keurig
Why It Matters: Keurig machines require expensive pods, which many guests overuse or take with them. Plus, Keurigs require frequent deep cleaning to prevent mold buildup.
The Smart Move: A pour-over coffee maker or French press is cost-effective, easy to clean, and more eco-friendly Its very obvious when tis been used the cleaners will be able to tell. much easier than cleaning a keurig or a machine and looks and feels more elevated as well. And is cheaper
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Part 2: Organization Hacks to Make Hosting Easier
6 - Label Your Cupboards, Drawers & Storage Bins
Why It Matters: Guests don’t want to message you asking, “Where’s the extra toilet paper?” or “I spilled something—where’s the extra sheet?”. Every time they do, you either interrupt your day to reply or risk a bad review if they don’t get an answer quickly.
The Smart Move: Label everything! Clearly mark cupboards, drawers, and storage bins so guests can help themselves. This also makes it easier for cleaners and co-hosts to restock supplies quickly.
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7 - Label Light Switches for Clarity
Why It Matters: Every house has confusing light switches. Guests don’t want to fumble around trying to figure out which switch turns on the kitchen lights.
The Smart Move: Use small labels or stickers to identify what each switch controls. This saves guests time and reduces frustration.
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8 - Store Extra Linens & Towels in Labeled Bins
Why It Matters: Guests may need extra sheets or towels during their stay, and they shouldn’t have to contact you to find them. The Smart Move: Keep extra linens in labeled storage bins in a closet or laundry room so guests can grab what they need easily.
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9 - Create a Digital Guest Guide with House Rules & Local Tips
Why It Matters: A well-prepared guest is a happy guest. Clear instructions reduce misunderstandings and improve the overall experience. The Smart Move: Make a digital guide with check-in instructions, house rules, Wi-Fi info, and local recommendations. Share the link with guests before their stay. Or Leave A QR Code they can use upon arrical.
10 - Make an Exit Checklist for Guests to Follow
Why It Matters: Guests often want to leave your Airbnb in good shape, but they may not know what’s expected.
The Smart Move: Provide a simple exit checklist (e.g., take out the trash, start the dishwasher) to guide them through the process.
Part 3: Cleaning Hacks for Efficiency
11. Place a Rug or Shoe Mat by the Entrance to Reduce Dirt
Why It Matters: Shoes bring in dirt, dust, and debris that can make floors dirty quickly, leading to extra cleaning time and potential damage to flooring.
The Smart Move: Provide a high-quality rug or shoe mat at the entrance and include a polite sign encouraging guests to remove their shoes upon entry.
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12. Keep a Lint Roller on Site for Quick Cleanup
Why It Matters: Pet hair, lint, and dust can stick to furniture and bedding, making your space look untidy and requiring more effort to clean between guests.
The Smart Move: Stock a few lint rollers in key areas like the bedroom and living room to help guests and cleaners quickly remove unwanted debris. For example stuck hair on linens and pillow can be easily removed with a lint roller.
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13. Invest in a High-Quality Vacuum for Efficient Cleaning
Why It Matters: Dust, dirt, and crumbs build up fast in a short-term rental, and a poor-quality vacuum can make cleaning inefficient and time-consuming.
The Smart Move: Buy a powerful, easy-to-use vacuum that works well on multiple surfaces. A cordless model can make quick cleanups even easier.
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14. Stock Up on Magic Erasers for Quick Fixes
Why It Matters: Scuffs, stains, and marks on walls, appliances, and furniture can make your Airbnb look worn out faster than it should.
The Smart Move: Keep a pack of Magic Erasers in your cleaning supplies to quickly erase marks and keep your rental looking pristine.
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15. Train Your Cleaners with a Standardized Checklist
Why It Matters: Inconsistent cleaning leads to complaints, bad reviews, and more turnover. Having a set process ensures every guest experiences the same level of cleanliness.
The Smart Move: Develop a clear, detailed cleaning checklist for your team to follow, covering everything from linens to hidden spots guests notice.
16. Use Air Purifiers & Scent Diffusers to Keep the Space Fresh
Why It Matters: Odors from previous guests, pets, or cooking can linger and negatively impact the guest experience.
The Smart Move: Use air purifiers to filter the air and scent diffusers with mild, universally liked scents (such as lavender or citrus) to keep the space smelling inviting.
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Part 4: Create a 5 Star Experience
17. Offer a Late Check-Out Option for a Small Fee
Why It Matters: Many guests appreciate a little extra time before they leave, especially if they have a late flight or a packed schedule. Offering late check-out can boost your reviews and even earn you extra income.
The Smart Move: Charge a small additional fee for late check-out, clearly listing this option in your booking details. It’s a win-win—guests get more flexibility, and you generate more revenue.
18. Create a Guest Welcome Basket with Small Perks
Why It Matters: A small gesture goes a long way in making guests feel special and appreciated. A welcome basket can set a great first impression and lead to more positive reviews.
The Smart Move: Include thoughtful items like bottled water, snacks, or a handwritten welcome note. Keep it simple and cost-effective—guests will remember the effort, not the price tag.
19. Provide Extra Phone Chargers & Universal Adapters
Why It Matters: Guests often forget chargers or come from different countries with incompatible plugs. Having extras on hand can save them the hassle and make their stay more convenient.
The Smart Move: Keep a couple of universal adapters and extra phone chargers in a designated area (like the nightstand). Guests will appreciate the convenience, and it prevents unnecessary trips to the store. Example Purchase From Amazon Canada - Link
20. Install a Noise Monitor (Not a Camera!) to Prevent Party Issues
Why It Matters: Unauthorized parties can lead to property damage, complaints from neighbors, and even suspension from Airbnb. A noise monitor helps you catch potential issues early without invading guests’ privacy.
The Smart Move: Use a noise monitoring device that alerts you when sound levels exceed a certain threshold. This ensures compliance with house rules while respecting guest privacy. Example Purchase From Amazon Canada - Link
FAQs for Airbnb Hosts
Can I Airbnb a property that is not my place of residence in Toronto?
No, short-term rentals in Toronto are only allowed in your principal residence, where you live for most of the year and receive mail or official correspondence. You must provide proof of this during registration. While you can rent it out for up to 180 days annually, you do not need to reside there during the rental period. For a detailed answer, refer to our regulations guide.
What should i expect in terms of cost of consumable for Airbnb?
You should budget around $20 - 30 per stay in Toronto.
What if my condo board doesn’t allow short-term rentals?
Even if city regulations allow short-term rentals, you cannot legally host if your condo board or lease agreement prohibits them. Always confirm your building’s policies before listing your property.
How much does airbnb cleaning cost in Toronto?
The cost depends on many factors such as size of the unit, frequency of cleaning, and what needs to be done. For a typical 1 bedroom airbnb cleaning, the cost should range anywhere between 120-170 per clean in Toronto.
How itsGLO Cleaning Can Help You with Managing Your Airbnb
At itsGLO Cleaning, we understand the challenges Airbnb hosts face when it comes to maintaining compliance and providing a great guest experience. Here’s how we can help:
Compliance Support: Assistance in keeping up to date with regulations
Enhance Guest Experience: We specialize in creating clean, welcoming environments that leave guests impressed. Our attention to detail helps you earn glowing reviews and repeat bookings.
Best in class cleaning: Our team is specifically trained to handle airbnb properties, and to do everything possible to enhance guest experience.
Flexible and Affordable Services: With airbnb specific cleaning packages, we save you time and ensure your property is always guest-ready.
Ready to simplify your hosting experience? Contact ITSGLO Cleaning today for professional, hassle-free cleaning solutions. Let us handle the details so you can focus on growing your business.