Airbnb bans guest housekeeping requests, prompting host backlash
Airbnb will prohibit hosts from requiring guests to perform chores such as dishwashing and laundry starting Nov. 20, leading some hosts to consider leaving the platform.
Airbnb announced that, effective Nov. 20, hosts may no longer require guests to complete housekeeping tasks such as washing dishes, stripping beds, starting laundry or removing garbage. The company said the change is intended to prevent guests from being asked to perform duties that should be covered by cleaning fees and to protect host reviews.
The policy also limits hosts to seven standard house-rule categories, with any additional instructions needing to be deemed reasonable. Guests may still be asked to place dirty dishes in the sink, gather used towels, separate recycling and turn off air conditioning before departure.
The announcement has triggered criticism from hosts on Airbnb’s community forums. One host wrote, "When adding a request, remember that most guests want to avoid unexpected chores. Asking them to do things a cleaner should handle can negatively affect their stay and your reviews."
Several hosts expressed concern that the new rules could increase their operating costs. A host in Fair Oaks, California said, "We already pay professional cleaners to prepare our home for the next guests. Your new policy will increase cleaning costs, create additional work, and ultimately contribute to higher rental rates."
Hosts in Brazil and Switzerland also voiced opposition, with one stating, "We do NOT agree with the new house rules and call on Airbnb to withdraw them," and another adding, "Every day, we ask Airbnb in writing how we should deal with mice, rats, and vermin when trash is left in the house. How is kitchen hygiene to be maintained if dishes are left dirty?"
Airbnb reported strong quarterly growth despite the controversy, while some guests have welcomed the move, noting that they prefer either a cleaning fee or a request to tidy up, but not both.