Xolile Mtembu|Published
Holidaymakers who have been forced to scrub, wash and haul rubbish before checking out of their holiday accommodation may finally catch a break.
Airbnb is tightening the rules on hosts who expect guests to complete a list of cleaning chores before handing back the keys, including stripping beds, washing and putting away dishes, and taking rubbish off the property.
The move comes amid growing frustration over checkout demands, particularly when guests are already paying cleaning fees for their stays.
Under the new policy, hosts will generally be prohibited from demanding tasks that require significant time or effort or would normally be handled by a professional cleaner.
The rules will apply to reservations booked on or after November 20, 2026.
“House rules help guests understand what hosts expect, but we've heard from our community that they can be confusing, onerous and hard to manage,” said Airbnb.
The company added that they have redesigned the rules to make them easier for guests.
Which checkout chores will be restricted
Under the updated rules:
- Guests cannot generally be required to strip their beds
- Start a load of laundry
- Wash and put away dishes
- Take rubbish off-site
Hosts will, however, still be allowed to make reasonable requests.
These include
- Asking guests to place used dishes in the sink
- Gather used towels
- Separate rubbish
- Recycling into designated indoor bins
The policy also prevents hosts from restricting access to advertised amenities, such as air conditioning, or imposing their own fines and penalties on guests.
Hosts face consequences for breaking the rules
Airbnb is also changing how house rules are displayed, making them easier for guests to find before booking.
Hosts must disclose their rules and requests in the designated section of their listing at the time of booking.
They cannot introduce new requirements afterwards through messages, signs inside the property or verbal instructions.
The company will flag requests that do not comply with the policy and give hosts an opportunity to resolve the issue or appeal.
Airbnb warned that persistent violations could result in a notice on the listing, reduced visibility in search results or further action under its terms of service.
The policy does not mean guests can leave accommodation in an unacceptable state. They are still expected to respect the property and may be held responsible for damage or excessive cleaning caused during their stay.
IOL