65. STR Cleaner Tells the Truth

• Link: Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator Course
• Link to the Airbnb Roadmap Website

Episode Summary

In this episode, I sit down with Carlos Saavedra, a cleaning expert who operates a high standard Airbnb cleaning company, and we get into the REAL behind the scenes of what makes or breaks your short term rental. We talk about everything from why your cleaner is actually the backbone of your business, to the small details guests notice that can tank your reviews, to how to properly vet and hire a cleaner who actually understands hospitality, not just “cleaning.”

We also go deep into systems, communication, linens, staging expectations, and the biggest mistakes I see investors make when setting up their Airbnb for success. If you have ever struggled with a cleaner, questioned your setup, or want to avoid costly mistakes from day 1, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways

• Your cleaner is not just a cleaner, they are protecting your income
  • Hospitality cleaning is VERY different than residential or office cleaning
  • Small details like hair, linens, and supplies can make or break reviews
  • You should always interview multiple cleaners before hiring
  • Ask about pricing structure, experience, and consistency systems
  • White linens win every time for cleanliness perception and sanitation
  • 3 full linen sets per bed is the sweet spot for operations
  • Over staging your Airbnb can create unnecessary workload and inconsistency
  • Systems and communication between you and your cleaner are everything
  • Not all cleaners are built for short term rentals, and that is okay

Why Listen to This Episode?

If you are building or scaling an Airbnb, this episode will save you time, money, and headaches. I am not kidding when I say your cleaner can either elevate your business or completely destroy your guest experience.

This conversation will help you hire smarter, set better expectations, and build systems that actually support long term success. Whether you are brand new or already hosting, this is one of those foundational episodes you do not want to skip.

Let’s Connect

Thinking about hiring a cleaner or setting up your Airbnb the right way? DM me on Instagram at @theairbnbroadmap with your questions or share your progress! I’d love to cheer you on and help you out.

Work With Me

Ready to launch your Airbnb the RIGHT way without all the trial and error?
Inside my Airbnb Roadmap Accelerator, I walk you through everything from finding the right property to setting up systems like cleaning, pricing, and guest experience so you can actually make money and not feel overwhelmed.

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Chapters

00:00 Intro and guest welcome
02:00 How Carlos got into Airbnb cleaning
05:00 What most cleaners are doing wrong
08:00 Going above and beyond as a cleaning company
12:00 3 must ask questions when hiring a cleaner
18:00 Real life cleaner interview horror story
22:00 Staging vs reality in Airbnbs
26:00 Linen strategy and why white wins
33:00 King vs queen bedding debate
37:00 When to fire your cleaner
41:00 Final thoughts and business shoutouts

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