Holidaymakers staying in Airbnb properties could soon face fewer checkout cleaning demands, as the booking platform introduces stricter rules on the chores hosts can require guests to complete before leaving.
Image used for illustrative purposes/By: d3sign/Getty Images
According to IOL, the updated policy will restrict hosts from requiring time-consuming tasks typically handled by professional cleaners, particularly when guests have already paid a cleaning fee.
The new rules will apply to reservations booked on or after 20 November 2026.
Airbnb said it had heard concerns from its community about checkout requirements that could be confusing, burdensome and difficult to manage. The company has since revised its house rules to make expectations clearer for guests.
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Which checkout chores will be restricted?
Under the updated policy, hosts generally cannot require guests to strip beds, start laundry loads, wash and put away dishes, or take rubbish off-site.
However, hosts may still make reasonable requests. Guests may be asked to leave used dishes in the sink, gather used towels, or sort rubbish and recycling into designated indoor bins.
The changes also prohibit hosts from restricting access to advertised amenities, such as air conditioning, or imposing their own fines and penalties on guests.
What happens if hosts break the rules?
Airbnb is changing how house rules are displayed to ensure guests can see requirements before booking.
Hosts must disclose their rules in the designated section of their listings at the time of booking. They cannot introduce additional checkout requirements afterwards through messages, signs inside the property or verbal instructions.
The platform may flag rules that do not comply with its policy and allow hosts to resolve the issue or appeal. Repeated violations could lead to notices on listings, reduced visibility in search results or further action under Airbnb’s terms of service.
The changes do not remove guests’ responsibility to respect the property. Travellers may still be held accountable for damage or excessive cleaning resulting from their stay.
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