
It is often underestimated, yet it can determine ratings, bookings and even your reputation: the final cleaning of your holiday home. Providing incorrect or misleading information about this risks dissatisfied guests, poor ratings or cancelled bookings. But don't worry, this is easy to avoid – if you know what's important.
Content
- How final cleaning becomes a factor for success
- How to correctly specify the final cleaning
- What the final cleaning may cost
- How to avoid common mistakes
- Why cleanliness is your calling card
- Whether you should clean yourself or outsource cleaning
- What guests need to know before checking-out
We also provide you with a free checklist!
How final cleaning becomes a factor for success
Most guests expect clean accommodation. However, many hosts underestimate the importance of how you specify the final cleaning. Nothing is more frustrating than hidden additional costs or unclear pricing. If the original price seems reasonable but is then significantly increased by a cleaning fee discovered later, this can spoil the mood – even before the holiday has begun. At atraveo by e-domizil, we make sure that all price information is clear and comprehensible when presenting your accommodation. This helps you avoid queries and strengthens your guests' trust right from the booking stage.
Pricing: How to correctly specify final cleaning in holiday home
Clear information – clear expectations! There are two popular models available – choose the one that suits your holiday home and target group.
(1) Final cleaning included in the total price
With this model, you include cleaning in the price per night.
➔ Advantage: Guests are not surprised by the total price. This seems fair and straightforward, especially for shorter stays.
(2) Final cleaning as a separate fee
Here, the final cleaning is shown as a separate item in addition to the overnight price.
➔ Advantage: You remain flexible in your pricing for longer stays.
Important: Regardless of the model, the costs for final cleaning must be clearly visible from the outset; guests do not like hidden costs. A transparent approach not only improves trust, but also your ranking on booking portals, making it one of your strongest sales levers.
How much should the final cleaning of the holiday home cost?
The costs vary depending on the size, location and amenities of your holiday home – and whether you clean it yourself or hire a professional service.
Here are some rough guidelines:
- Small holiday home: 40–70 €
- Medium-sized holiday apartment: 70–120 €
- Large or luxurious house: 120–200 € and above
Please note that average prices vary depending on the holiday region. Be fair – but realistic. Your time, cleaning products, laundry and travel costs all count. If you underestimate the cost, you'll be saving in the wrong place – and risking potentially negative ratings due to a lack of cleanliness.
Common mistakes – and how to avoid them
We encounter certain pitfalls time and time again – but they are easy to avoid:
- Unclear or late notification of cleaning costs
- Guests do not know what to do when they leave
- No clear procedures for guest changes
Solution: Specify the costs in advance, leave a short checklist for departure and ensure a well-coordinated cleaning process!
Cleanliness as your calling card
A fresh scent, clean surfaces, empty bins – first impressions count. Sparkling clean holiday home immediately impresses. On the other hand, anyone who encounters crumbs, hair or empty bottles will be immediately disappointed – even if everything else is perfect. So, cleaning is not a chore, but your strongest selling point. You can find more tips on how to impress your guests as soon as they arrive here: How to give your guests a positive holiday experience as soon as they arrive.
Clean yourself or outsource cleaning?
Many hosts take care of the final cleaning themselves, while others rely on professional cleaners. Both approaches work – the important thing is that you have a reliable solution.
Clean yourself
You remain in control and save on the cost of a service provider, especially for occasional rentals.
Hiring a service provider
Ideal for regular rentals. When choosing a service provider, make sure they have experience with holiday homes and are flexible when it comes to last-minute changes. Good documentation is also important (e.g. photos of the target condition or checklists).
What guests need to know when checking-out
A smooth process and transparent communication regarding departure ensure a good feeling – and take the pressure off you. You can find more tips in our article The right way to communicate with holiday home guests.
Be sure to clarify the following points with your guests in advance:
- Should the rubbish be disposed of?
- Should the bed linen be removed?
- Is it sufficient to put the dishes in the dishwasher?
- What is the latest check-out time?
You can provide this information digitally or as a printout on site.
Free checklist
To ensure that everything runs smoothly, we provide you with a free checklist that covers all the important points relating to final cleaning.
Conclusion: Clear rules, satisfied guests
Final cleaning is much more than an organisational necessity – it is a decisive factor for satisfaction, bookings and your reputation as a host. Being transparent about costs, creating clear processes and emphasising cleanliness strengthens guests' trust and prevents negative ratings. Whether you clean yourself or hire professionals, the important thing is to have a reliable solution. Transparency, fairness and diligence pay off in every respect. A well-organised final cleaning service ensures satisfied guests who are happy to come back. At atraveo, we support you in this – with expertise, personal advice and a professional presentation for your holiday home.