The Ultimate Guide to Creating the Top-rated Airbnb Experience
As the co-founder of KottonBee, a brand committed to enhancing sleep quality, I've spent the past year staying in over 46 Airbnbs and 38 hotels across the US and Canada. I’ve shared all kinds of good and bad experiences during my stays and I feel I can share some valuable tips for making your airbnb loved by your guests.
Here, I'm just sharing these tips—not to sell you anything, but to help you stand out in a crowded market.
Essentials Every Airbnb Should Have
Before diving into the unique touches, ensure your Airbnb covers these basics. They don't break the bank but significantly improve ROI:
- Smooth Check-in
- Private Entrance
- Hot Water
- TV and WiFi
- High-Quality Bed Linen
- Fresh Towels
- Air Conditioning/Heating
- Fully Equipped Kitchen
- Sufficient Pillows
Game-Changing Enhancements
These tips, drawn from my extensive stays, can transform a good Airbnb into a great one, enhancing guest satisfaction and boosting your ratings.
- A Great-Smelling Space
First impressions matter. Ensure your property smells pleasant and inviting. A bad odor can overshadow all other positives, no matter how well-designed your space is.
- Ample Lighting
Lighting can make or break the ambiance. If natural light is limited, invest in quality lamps and ceiling lights. A well-lit space feels welcoming and comfortable.
- Premium Bed Linens
Don’t skimp on bed linens. High-quality sheets can significantly improve sleep quality, while poor ones can lead to complaints and bad reviews. Choose soft, breathable materials that enhance comfort.
- Well-Equipped Kitchen
A kitchen with a microwave, coffee machine, and essential utensils allows guests to prepare meals, making them feel more at home. This convenience differentiates Airbnbs from hotels.
- Thoughtful Furnishing
Avoid using your Airbnb as a dumping ground for old furniture. Even basic, cohesive furniture is better than mismatched, outdated pieces. A clean, minimalist look often appeals more to guests.
- Comprehensive Bathroom Essentials
Stock your bathroom with more than just the basics. Provide extra toilet paper, high-quality towels, body wash, shampoo, hand soap, and a hairdryer. Choose products you'd use yourself to show you care about your guests' comfort.
- Stocked Kitchen Pantry
A few pantry staples like cooking oil, spices, coffee, and sugar can make a big difference. These small touches prevent guests from needing to run out for basic groceries.
- Airbnb Instruction Manual
Provide a manual answering common questions about your property. Some guests may hesitate to contact the host, so having information readily available improves their experience.
Conclusion
By implementing these tips, you can create a memorable stay that encourages glowing reviews and repeat bookings. For more inspiration, check out our journal, where we highlight some of the best-rated Airbnbs and their unique hosting strategies. Additionally, KottonBee offers high-quality linens at discounted prices for Airbnb hosts. Request yours here, and let us help you elevate your guest experience.
Best Wishes
Sagar Mongia
Co-founder, KottonBee
Credits: @haus.on.hardy, @anniesumangdesigns, @thevintageroundtop, @rosalindafarms, @stayinbabia
