Stock up on these cleaning supplies

Are you ready to take your cleaning to the next level? As part of Airbnb’s 5-step enhanced cleaning process, based on the cleaning handbook, we’ve put together a list of recommended supplies, from protective gear to cleaning products for guests. Here are some items to stock up on to clean more effectively.

You can help reduce your exposure to germs and chemicals by using the following equipment while cleaning:

• Disposable gloves (recommended)
• Mask or cloth facial covering (recommended)
• Safety glasses (optional, for cleaning the bathroom)
• Apron or gown (optional)
• Shoe coverings (optional)
• Face shield (optional)

With some basic supplies, you’ll be able to efficiently make your way through the cleaning process. Here’s what you need:

• Broom and dustpan
• Bucket (if necessary)
• Duster
• Garbage bags
• Microfiber cloths
• Mop
• Paper towels
• Scrub brush
• Scrub pads (kitchen only)
• Step ladder (if necessary)
• Toilet brush
• Vacuum cleaner
• Vacuum bags (if necessary)
• Dishwasher
• Washer & dryer

We recommend only using disinfectant and sanitizer solutions that are registered with relevant governmental agencies (e.g. the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or the European Chemicals Agency). Stock up on:

• Multi-surface cleaner
• Multi-surface disinfectant
• Glass cleaner
• Bleach
• Laundry detergent
• Laundry stain remover
• Dishwashing detergent
• Carpet cleaner (if necessary)
• Floor cleaner
• Furniture/wood polish
• Oven cleaner (kitchen only)
• Oven degreaser (kitchen only)
• Mold cleaner (if necessary)

What you need to know about sanitizing with disinfectants 
You might be wondering if the products you’re using are strong enough to help reduce the number of germs, such as bacteria and viruses. Here’s a quick overview:

• Make sure to use approved disinfectants. Please check with relevant governmental agencies, like the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the European Chemicals Agency, for a list of approved cleaners and disinfectants. In the U.S., for example, the EPA-recommended products include Clorox wipes, Lysol sprays, and other commonly used disinfectants.
• Allow the product to air-dry. If you remove the disinfectant before the recommended wet contact time, there’s no guarantee that the product has killed the pathogens claimed on the label. 
• Disinfectant wipes are okay. Allow surfaces to stay wet long enough—the amount of time depends on the product, so check the label.
• Skip the unproven disinfectants. While vinegar and essential oils can be effective cleaners, they haven’t been approved by regulatory agencies as disinfectants.
• Never mix cleaners. Combining some products, like bleach and ammonia, can release toxic gases that are dangerous to inhale.

We’ve heard from guests that they want the ability to clean on their own while staying in your space. Help them by stocking up on supplies they can use—if you’re hosting families, be sure to store any cleaning products out of children’s reach. Here’s what guests need most:

• Disposable paper towels
• Multi-surface cleaner
• Disinfectant wipes or spray
• Antibacterial hand sanitizer
• Extra hand soap

• Don’t enter a space without the recommended protective equipment, and don’t reuse soiled gear
• Be sure to read all safety labels so you understand how to use cleaning chemicals properly
• Always keep chemical products out of reach of children
• To help prevent the spread of germs, don’t touch your face while you’re cleaning

When you’re done cleaning, remember to take stock of what supplies are running low or getting close to their expiration date—that way, you can replace and replenish before the next cleaning comes around.

NEXT: Tell guests about your enhanced cleaning process

Information contained in this article may have changed since publication. The 5-step enhanced cleaning process provides a simple set of requirements for cleaning your listing. For more information on how to implement those steps, please refer to the entire Airbnb cleaning handbook. As a Host, you may need to take extra steps to protect yourselves, your teams, and your guests, and you should always consult and comply with any relevant local laws or guidelines. Airbnb is not responsible for any injuries or disease resulting from following this cleaning process. For cleaning guidelines and rules specific to where you host your region, please bookmark this Help Center article.