Why a Checklist Changes Everything
The biggest mistake Brisbane Airbnb hosts make with turnovers is relying on memory. When you're rushing between a 10am checkout and a 2pm check-in, it's easy to forget the microwave, skip the balcony, or leave a previous guest's item in a drawer.
A written checklist eliminates that risk. Every room, every time.
Bedroom Checklist
Linen and beds
- Strip all used linen (sheets, pillowcases, duvet cover)
- Check mattress protector — replace if stained
- Make bed with fresh linen to hotel standard
- Symmetrical pillowcases, tucked-in sheets, smooth duvet
Surfaces and storage
- Wipe all bedside tables and surfaces
- Check drawers and wardrobe for items left by previous guests
- Dust lamps, ceiling fan blades, and skirting boards
- Vacuum or mop floor including under the bed
Final check
- No hair on pillow or surfaces
- Curtains or blinds adjusted consistently
- Lights and fans switched off
Bathroom Checklist
Toilet
- Clean bowl inside with brush
- Wipe seat, lid, and base
- Fold toilet paper to a triangle point
Shower and bath
- Scrub tiles and grout
- Clean shower screen — no water spots
- Replace shampoo, conditioner, body wash if running low
- Wipe chrome fixtures until they shine
Sink and vanity
- Clean mirror — no streaks or splashes
- Wipe sink and benchtop
- Replace hand soap
- Replace used towels with fresh folded set
Kitchen Checklist
Appliances
- Wipe stovetop — remove all grease
- Clean inside microwave
- Wipe outside of fridge, oven, and dishwasher
- Run dishwasher if dishes were left (or hand wash)
Surfaces
- Wipe all benchtops
- Clean sink — no residue or stains
- Empty and reline bin
- Wipe down cabinet fronts
Consumables
- Replace coffee pods, tea bags, sugar sachets
- Check dish soap and sponge — replace if needed
- Restock paper towels
Living Areas Checklist
- Vacuum all soft furnishings and floors
- Wipe TV remote, light switches, and door handles
- Fluff and arrange cushions and throws consistently
- Remove any items left by previous guests
- Check under couch for lost items or crumbs
Outdoor Areas
- Sweep patio or balcony
- Wipe outdoor furniture
- Clean BBQ grill if provided
- Empty outdoor bin if applicable
The Final Walkthrough
Before locking up, do one full walkthrough from the front door with fresh eyes. Ask yourself: if I walked in as a guest right now, what would I notice?
Common last-minute catches:
- A light left on in the bathroom
- A guest's phone charger behind the bedside table
- The front door mat not centred
- A smudge on the glass sliding door
How Long Should a Turnover Take?
For a typical Brisbane Airbnb:
| Property size | Cleaning time | With linen change |
|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bed | 45–60 min | 60–75 min |
| 2 bed | 75–90 min | 90–105 min |
| 3 bed | 100–120 min | 120–140 min |
These times assume the property was left in reasonable condition. A particularly messy checkout adds 20–40 minutes.
Taking the Checklist Off Your Plate
If managing this checklist between every booking sounds like a lot — it is. Ventumm's Brisbane cleaning team follows this exact process on every turnover, so you never have to think about it again.
We service properties across Brisbane including West End, Paddington, Toowong, Kangaroo Point, and Chermside.