Airbnb bans hosts from assigning guests heavy cleaning tasks
Airbnb introduced new rules that prohibit hosts from asking guests to perform chores such as stripping beds or starting laundry, prompting criticism from some hosts.
Airbnb announced a policy change that bars hosts from requesting guests to carry out cleaning duties that require significant effort or time, such as stripping beds, starting a load of laundry, or handling other tasks typically performed by professional cleaners. The rules apply to reservations made on or after Nov. 20.
Under the new guidelines, hosts may still ask guests to place used dishes in the sink or separate trash and recycling, but they cannot require guests to wash dishes, put them away, or take garbage to an off-site facility. Airbnb noted that most guests prefer to avoid unexpected chores.
The company warned that repeated violations could result in reduced visibility of the host’s listing or a notice to guests about the breach. More than 5,000 hosts signed a Change.org petition urging Airbnb to reverse the policy, arguing that the restrictions could increase cleaning costs for hosts and potentially raise accommodation prices for travelers.