Post by High Priestess on May 29, 2016 6:34:44 GMT
Tania & Andrew shared Nov 2014 New Hosts FOrum
www.airbnb.com/groups/content/content-93588
Do you charge cleaning fee? If so, what does it include?
Hello guys.In my booking I charge a very small cleaning fee ($5 USD) which includes: deep cleaning of all areas previous to the arrival of the guest (specially their room and bathroom), set of clean towels and linens. In long term stays (one week or more) I charge an extra $5 USD per week to do a complete cleaning of the guest's room, bathroom, change linens and towels.I am planning to travel to NYC and one of the listings I've found charges a $25 USD cleaning fee and upon asking him what did it include (because most of the comments were that the shared spaces with the host are not really clean) he replied: "The cleaning fee include all clean bedding set and towels. I clean the shared space from time to time."My question (after all of these) is: Am I undercharging or is he over charging? Do you charge cleaning fee? If so, what does it include?Thanks!
24 comments
Follow
Like
Delete
Hide
Robert and Stefania
Robert and Stefania2 years ago
I charge 10 Euro because my housekeeper charges me 10 Euro for cleaning the bedroom and bathroom
Reply Like 1 like Delete
Nicole
Nicole2 years ago
Personally... I think he is over charging. If I stay somewhere that charges a cleaning fee I expect spotless. I work in a deep clean of the guest room and bathroom into my price. I have thought about charging a cleaning fee but honestly I don't want to deal with the expectations that come along with it. Paying extra for clean sheets and towels is ridiculous to me. I would not stay with that host simply because of his arrogance. JMO.
Reply Like 2 replies•2 likes Delete
Tania & Andrew
Tania & Andrew2 years ago
Yeah, exactly. And the fact is that he announces it as a private room which is not, is just a loft with a curtain for "privacy" the only thing that keeps me thinking about this is his amazing location (http://tinyurl.com/q4cjmns). What would you guys do? Any hosts from NYC?
Tania & Andrew
Tania & Andrew2 years ago
Crap, wrong URL this is the one I'm talking about: tinyurl.com/p6caex3 sorry!!
Rebecca
Rebecca2 years ago
I have a strong opinion about cleaning fees and it is not in keeping with many hosts! My opinion is that a cleaning fee is only reasonable for a long-term stay. Otherwise I feel it is just an insiduous way of charging extra money. A room/appartment/house should be clean on arrival. That should be expected and not cost extra. Cleaning up after guests is part of the business and should be written into the overall cost, in my opinion.
Reply Like 2 replies•6 likes Delete
Nicole
Nicole2 years ago
I agree with you 100%. The only way I would charge a cleaning fee is if I actually was paying someone to come clean prior to each booking and I would state that in the listing. Conversely this is also the only way I will pay a cleaning fee unless the place is ridiculously cheap.
Tania & Andrew
Tania & Andrew2 years ago
Hello, in my case I am paying my cleaning lady. That is why I charge a cleaning fee.
Nic and Rach
Nic and Rach2 years ago
I am renting a 1100 sq/ft basement apt/ and my cleaner is charging me $25.00 so I charged cleaning fees $25.00 which I think reasonable here in NC
Reply Like Delete
Leah
Leah2 years ago
I charge 15 for my cottage. I don't charge a security. I use that fee for supplies, things that need replacing/repair.
Reply Like Delete
Leah
Leah2 years ago
And it also depends on the length of cleaning vs space to see if it is worth it. Sometimes, depending on where you want to go, even with a cleaning fee and airbnb fees, it is still cheaper than a hotel.
Reply Like 5 replies•2 likes Delete
Nic and Rach
Nic and Rach2 years ago
Spot on Leah ! was that Fleur's ? Totally agree still cheaper compare to a hotel... specially when guest/s gave their reviews and commented your place as " Super Clean " .. that add's another star in that category ... am I right ?
Leah
Leah2 years ago
Yes, cleanliness is indeed a ranked category. For my space, which is about 300sf, I spend at least two + hours cleaning that for each guest, regardless if it is a one night stay or several. All get the top to bottom scrub.
Nicole
Nicole2 years ago
As a guest I would EXPECT this type of cleanliness if you are charging a cleaning fee.
Leah
Leah2 years ago
You also have to see it as a psychological marketing tool. People see lower price per night and don't flinch at a small cleaning fee vs higher per night and no additional fees. Both ways are perfectly fine. Guests that book my place are still getting a heck of a deal for a whole place, even compared to those with just a private room. Then, location comes into play as another factor. Obviously, guests are all over the spectrum of what is value priced vs actual price paid. Even with my cleaning fee, guests have always been tidy.
Nicole
Nicole2 years ago
I agree... It's about end value no matter where you put the "fees".
John
John2 years ago
I rent my summer cottages only by the week (or 5 nites minimum) and depending on unit involved, my cleaning fee is $40 to $75 because that's what my hired crew charges me -but- compared to almost all other places around here, my costs are low -- usually it's $100-$150 for similar places. -- And that cost is only the basic cleaning -- and my customers supply their own linens so no effort for that.
Reply Like 1 reply Delete
Maggie
Maggie2 years ago
LOVE your red cottages!!
Tania & Andrew
Tania & Andrew2 years ago
Thank you everyone for all your comments!
Reply Like Delete
Cheryl
Cheryl2 years ago
I charge a cleaning fee. I think it's fair because whether you hire a cleaner or do it yourself, it is an extra expense be it money or your time. Extra costs are stated upfront and I have not had any complaints from guests about it. At the end of the day I think one has to do what they feel comfy with and is going to be fair for both parties
Reply Like Delete
Fleur, Dan and kids
Fleur, Dan and kids2 years ago
I've just recently removed my cleaning fee ($25AUD) and slightly raised my nightly fees by $10 per night. I've actually found recently that my place has been kept spotless now and it's taking me less time to clean. Maybe people expect more if they get charged the fee? I'm losing a little bit with one or two night bookings but def saving time.
Reply Like 1 like Delete
Nic and Rach
Nic and Rach2 years ago
Host/s has their own style of managing their properties/listings and not all guest/s are clean whether professional/non professional tourists/non tourist a minimal cleaning fee for me is worth it and I will pay for it. We travel 4 to 5 times in a year out of the country and 10 times or more within the country we stayed in hotels and airbnb and you pay for the price for those 4 basic categories Safety,Security,Comfortabilty and Cleanliness If I am a guest in your properties or listings I will give you my honest review about cleanliness . When I see a strand or wisp of hair whether in the bed, bathroom, or any common areas to me is a sign of " not clean " When I check in in a hotel I check the bathroom first the commode needs to be super clean and no signs of any perceptibility or visualness of sort , the tubs/bathroom walls should be free of soap scum and hard water stains bathroom fixtures/mirrors and floors should be spotless and if I see anything in that particular space.... then. that for me is a turn off then, I check the bed if there are signs of stains or hair then to me that's a turn off. Not clean ! for me, I pay for what I think is worth it and that's important.
Reply Like 8 replies•1 like Delete
Tracy
Tracy2 years ago
I've never gotten dinged for cleanliness - I work at home as well (with clients visiting) so it's always clean. But TBH I'd be afraid to have you stay! It's a shared listing (we live here) and sometimes hairs do fall out of your head during the day ;-) I think you'd find yourself happy with the rest though ;-)
Andrew
Andrew2 years ago
I was thinking the same as Tracy, actually. How on earth would an in-home host go about preventing a strand of hair in the common areas? Do we all have to shave our heads now?
Rick
Rick2 years ago
I had the same thoughts!! I don't think a "white glove" inspection is necessary when I check in somewhere. Wondering how you can stay anywhere with such exacting standards. Humans lose 30--50 hairs s day. Can we get every one if them every time??!! I think not.
Leah
Leah2 years ago
I hate seeing hair too. It means not doing a thorough job in checking the linens prior to the next guest. One place I stayed had pubic hair stuck in the towels. I hammered the host. WTF? Check it damn close.
Rick
Rick2 years ago
Hair is more a female issue than a male....most of us guys see it & move on....women tend to freak out dunno why
Tracy
Tracy2 years ago
I am not keen on hair on linen - sheets towels etc. Maybe it helps that I iron, but as I have a huge mop of hair I always 'screen' the sheet for my own hairs before pulling up the next layer of them so there aren't any in the bed/pillows etc.
Tania & Andrew
Tania & Andrew2 years ago
I keep my place super clean but I live in the listing. The guest have his/her own room and bathroom which is hairless and spotless but I do tend to lose hair specially during stressful times. I keep my hair tied but there still may be a hair on the floor once in a while. I'd be terrified to host someone like Nic and Rach
Maggie
Maggie2 years ago
I have been wearing a shower cap when cleaning guest areas and also when preparing food to prevent the natural process of hair inconveniently falling as I know people are super sensitive about this issue - those hairs are also hard to pick up sometimes so I don't need to add any of my own!
Andrew
Andrew2 years ago
Here's the thing: having three 2-night bookings in a week is a lot more work for us than having one 6-night booking, but without a cleaning fee they net an equal amount of money.
I charge a small cleaning fee in order to sustain a very low nightly rate. It's effectively a supplementary charge for shorter stays. Every time I change the room over between guests and wait for a guest to arrive, that's an extra amount of labor and scheduling and potential time off from work that I need to be compensated for. The cleaning fee is the one tool we have for fixing a flat per-booking charge, to make those short-term bookings worthwhile.
If it were up to me, I'd probably call it something other than the "cleaning fee," since I think of a clean property as an absolutely non-optional, essential part of the deal. For hosts that intend to attract short-term bookings, I would generally discourage charging an amount that is equal to the cost of the housekeeper, as it's not particularly good value for the guest.
Reply Like 6 likes Delete
Rick
Rick2 years ago
Has anyone priced cleaning services in N:YC?? $25 is a bargain....My cleaning lady charges me $50 to clean a one bedroom apt...the laundry charges me $20 to do the bedding...I charge the guests $30....I think that's totally reasonable & not trying to "gouge" anyone...Hey hosts: Isn't our time worth something??? Mine is worth more than $25/hour!! I agree that short term bookings are more expensive...turnover adds lots of costs...
Reply Like 1 like Delete
Tracy
Tracy2 years ago
I don't charge a cleaning fee - I'm very clean anyway, I have to clean every day when I see clients at home (bathroom/common area), I do a deep clean of the bathroom and bedroom prior to each guest. I consider it part of the process!
Reply Like 1 reply•2 likes Delete
Leah
Leah2 years ago
When I used to rent out a bedroom, I didn't charge the cleaning fee. Now that I am renting out my cottage as an entire space, cleaning fee. Many hosts live away from those separate listings so gas needs to be factored in as well.
mark
mark2 years ago
We don't have a cleaning fee for exactly the reason Andrew expressed "a clean property as an absolutely non-optional". For us it's easy to build it into the flat price as 99% of our guests are short term tourists and we prefer it that way. Further, I believe culture plays a part with this issue. Some are used to the endless "the price is the price - plus this -plus that - plus the other". It is something I personally find annoying, so I don't do it - I build it into the price. There is no add on for electricity, internet or water. They are basic costs of doing business.
I remember a comment from someone a few months ago that the cleaning fee was to "not to clean up after departure but to ensure the place was clean before the guest arrives" (or something similar). This is a piece of logic will forever be lost on me.
Andrews other point (re: the higher cost of short term stays) is also excellent. Sadly Airbnb is inflexible when it comes scaling/varying the price of short term stays - so (to me) the poorly titled "cleaning fee" has a part to play.
Reply Like 3 likes Delete
John
John2 years ago
Part of why I prefer having the cleaning fee as separate item instead of building it into base cost is that it more easily allows me to skip it on the three cases when I don't charge it or charge a lower amt: 1) guests turning over rental to other family members (like sister to sister; parents to kids, etc). 2) last rental of season as no need to clean floors when I'm going to mess them up! 3) When there is a 2+ day gap before next tenant and outgoing tenant wants to save money and cleans it and gives me plenty of time to verify.
Reply Like 1 like Delete
Karyo&Colin
Karyo&Colin2 years ago
We do not charge a cleaning fee, I have never booked into a hotel for 2 nights @£50 per night then been given a bill for £125! To me cleanliness of a space is obligatory and not an option. I really dislike all these'extras' and have read airbnb is going to give us a new list of ,extras, we can add to our guests bills! I think include everything in your nightly rate - with no hidden extras - the guests appreciate the honesty
Reply Like 5 likes Delete
Gordon
Gordon2 years ago
I worry that airbnb will turn into the lo-cost carrier of accommodation, ie. everything is pretty much an 'extra'. Be straight and up front; build your costs into your price.
Reply Like 4 likes Delete
Rick
Rick2 years ago
I think it's important to note that in the United States, nothing is the price that's marked....unlike Europe (& many other places in the world); we tack on additional local & state taxes to the price of an item ---this is done at check out, when you pay....we have no VAT (& are horrified when we find out the actual % of it!!)....So paying "add ons" is nothing new & not insidious or "evil" or even "sneaky" to us...it's just how business is done...When renting a vacation cottage at the beach or in the mountains, there is invariably a "cleaning fee'....it's listing right there (as it is on our listings on airbnb)....
So, add it if you like...build it in if you like....it won't make much difference...but it's certainly not a conspiracy or plot...
to keep foreigners on their toes, each US state has a different tax rate!! So what you pay for an apple in NYC is different from an apple in Florida....there are one or 2 states who charge no "sales tax"---I think Delaware is one of them....maybe also Washington state??
Reply Like 9 replies•2 likes Delete
Leah
Leah2 years ago
New Hampshire is tax free too
Rebecca
Rebecca2 years ago
Yes indeed, good point Rick. Thinking about New York and tipping..... god, that was a minefield the first time there. Is it enough? Where do I put it? Will they chase me down the street if I didn't leave enough etc I still maintain, though, that add-ons are annoying and run the risk of reducing trust. Particularly the cleaning fee - it doesn't fly with me that you have to pay a cleaner. Because ultimately you're NOT paying the cleaner - the guest is paying for him/her. And they really shouldn't have to. Cleanliness should be standard, not extra.
Rick
Rick2 years ago
well, in my case, I partially am...since my cleaning charge does not cover what the cleaner charges---oh & they WILL chase you down the street in NYC...(I've seen it!)
Rick
Rick2 years ago
Leah: ahh...yes...New Hampshire...the "live free or die" people...they would be tax free---those frugal yanks!
Rebecca
Rebecca2 years ago
rick, well I avoided being chased down the street and l learned through observation that a $5 dollar note fits nicely under a wine glass. Ha! If only I'd had my cocktail dress on at the time, I'd have felt almost cool ha ha. Ach well, we all do our thing. Cleaning fee, no cleaning fee - it's a case of finding what works for you.
Nic and Rach
Nic and Rach2 years ago
Well said Mr. Rick and I will vote for you if you run for president : Florida, Texas and New Hampshire - has no state tax but they will kill you on gasoline/fuel tax like 57.6 cents to 63.6 cents( cpg) (email hidden) NYC & Ca to be the highest and Alaska to be the lowest. but anyway, I think the U.S is the only country that tax so much, We have the Federal Tax, The Sales Tax, Property Tax and Income Tax.. where in GB and Canada I believe has a National Tax and Vat that's it .. am I right ? so, I believe that Airbnb is adding these " EXTRA'S" cause they know better.. SO, I think it's a benefit for the host/s in the USA if not in other countries that does'nt have that kind of expense.
Leah
Leah2 years ago
Californians, such as myself, pay the sunshine tax too :-P
Fleur, Dan and kids
Fleur, Dan and kids2 years ago
Oh Rebecca tipping is terrifying hey! I never know what to do either. Totally alien for us Aussies.
Rick
Rick2 years ago
tipping is not hard...15--20% of service rendered...pls remember that server in restaurant may be earning as low as $2/hr--so they depend on tips for their salary..
Karyo&Colin
Karyo&Colin2 years ago
Good point Rick, It is easy to forget the different ways and cultures from around the world
Reply Like Delete
Nic and Rach
Nic and Rach2 years ago
Effective 2015 I will maintain my nightly rates but I will give the guest/s an option if they want the extra's, I can not build those extra's in my nightly rates because of the competition, Airbnb are becoming more popular here and abroad and we are not only competing with each area hosts but also hotels and B&B's and I'm sure that Guest/s will always have that mentality of spending less on their trips or vacations so, they will be looking for a lower nightly rate that offer's amenities that they only need. for some, maybe just bed and bath in a private room or for others they may need, entire home/bed/bath and beyond. so we have to be creative as well how are we going to WOW our guest's that will buy the " Extra's " And that's what is Airbnb is all about the uniqueness of sharing. and each host has their own unique way of hosting their guest's without losing the value and the hospitality that they provide.
Reply Like Delete
Kari
Kari2 years ago
In my opinion a cleaning fee is a way of encentiving longer stays. Someone who stays for just a few nights pays less but requires the same work as some who stays for a week or two or more. The number I changeovers is relative to the work, laundry, etc. Every guest should get clean linens and I would say $5 is not enough to cover your expense to clean. Consider you will pay about $20 an hour for a cleaning service and even if you do the work yourself you should pay yourself. I would ask for $5 am I only getting a 15 min clean? I also allow pets and charge an additional $75 cleaning fee to take care of the dog hair. With this all in mind I did opt to set an aggressive price per night which it seems several hosts in my city do. Then charge more for weekends and holidays and he cleaning fee to cover the shorter stays. But if what you are doing works for you think before you change it.
Reply Like 1 reply•1 like Delete
Tania & Andrew
Tania & Andrew2 years ago
Hello Kari. 5 usd covers it perfectly. The maid charges me that to clean the guest's area and I have my own washing machine and plenty of space to hang them. In Mexico things are very different and a lot cheaper
Kari
Kari2 years ago
Yes being in Mexico is very different for many reasons. I wish I had the luxury of line drying linens but with our NW wet rain that isn't even an option. The added humidity also means more electricity for the drying cycle.
Reply Like Delete
Radoslava
Radoslava2 years ago
Hello everybody, I live in Vienna and my "Airbnb Apartment" is in Bratislava. I charge €20 as a cleaning fee, because this is what I pay for my cleaning lady and I leave a bottle of good wine for guests (€8). But I charge less for a night. I don't want to "punish" the longer stays. So I can only agree with Kari. I'm not interested in adding on "Extras", also to be a guest and pay for extras - it will bother me. )
Reply Like Delete
Deborah
www.airbnb.com/groups/content/content-93588
Do you charge cleaning fee? If so, what does it include?
Hello guys.In my booking I charge a very small cleaning fee ($5 USD) which includes: deep cleaning of all areas previous to the arrival of the guest (specially their room and bathroom), set of clean towels and linens. In long term stays (one week or more) I charge an extra $5 USD per week to do a complete cleaning of the guest's room, bathroom, change linens and towels.I am planning to travel to NYC and one of the listings I've found charges a $25 USD cleaning fee and upon asking him what did it include (because most of the comments were that the shared spaces with the host are not really clean) he replied: "The cleaning fee include all clean bedding set and towels. I clean the shared space from time to time."My question (after all of these) is: Am I undercharging or is he over charging? Do you charge cleaning fee? If so, what does it include?Thanks!
24 comments
Follow
Like
Delete
Hide
Robert and Stefania
Robert and Stefania2 years ago
I charge 10 Euro because my housekeeper charges me 10 Euro for cleaning the bedroom and bathroom
Reply Like 1 like Delete
Nicole
Nicole2 years ago
Personally... I think he is over charging. If I stay somewhere that charges a cleaning fee I expect spotless. I work in a deep clean of the guest room and bathroom into my price. I have thought about charging a cleaning fee but honestly I don't want to deal with the expectations that come along with it. Paying extra for clean sheets and towels is ridiculous to me. I would not stay with that host simply because of his arrogance. JMO.
Reply Like 2 replies•2 likes Delete
Tania & Andrew
Tania & Andrew2 years ago
Yeah, exactly. And the fact is that he announces it as a private room which is not, is just a loft with a curtain for "privacy" the only thing that keeps me thinking about this is his amazing location (http://tinyurl.com/q4cjmns). What would you guys do? Any hosts from NYC?
Tania & Andrew
Tania & Andrew2 years ago
Crap, wrong URL this is the one I'm talking about: tinyurl.com/p6caex3 sorry!!
Rebecca
Rebecca2 years ago
I have a strong opinion about cleaning fees and it is not in keeping with many hosts! My opinion is that a cleaning fee is only reasonable for a long-term stay. Otherwise I feel it is just an insiduous way of charging extra money. A room/appartment/house should be clean on arrival. That should be expected and not cost extra. Cleaning up after guests is part of the business and should be written into the overall cost, in my opinion.
Reply Like 2 replies•6 likes Delete
Nicole
Nicole2 years ago
I agree with you 100%. The only way I would charge a cleaning fee is if I actually was paying someone to come clean prior to each booking and I would state that in the listing. Conversely this is also the only way I will pay a cleaning fee unless the place is ridiculously cheap.
Tania & Andrew
Tania & Andrew2 years ago
Hello, in my case I am paying my cleaning lady. That is why I charge a cleaning fee.
Nic and Rach
Nic and Rach2 years ago
I am renting a 1100 sq/ft basement apt/ and my cleaner is charging me $25.00 so I charged cleaning fees $25.00 which I think reasonable here in NC
Reply Like Delete
Leah
Leah2 years ago
I charge 15 for my cottage. I don't charge a security. I use that fee for supplies, things that need replacing/repair.
Reply Like Delete
Leah
Leah2 years ago
And it also depends on the length of cleaning vs space to see if it is worth it. Sometimes, depending on where you want to go, even with a cleaning fee and airbnb fees, it is still cheaper than a hotel.
Reply Like 5 replies•2 likes Delete
Nic and Rach
Nic and Rach2 years ago
Spot on Leah ! was that Fleur's ? Totally agree still cheaper compare to a hotel... specially when guest/s gave their reviews and commented your place as " Super Clean " .. that add's another star in that category ... am I right ?
Leah
Leah2 years ago
Yes, cleanliness is indeed a ranked category. For my space, which is about 300sf, I spend at least two + hours cleaning that for each guest, regardless if it is a one night stay or several. All get the top to bottom scrub.
Nicole
Nicole2 years ago
As a guest I would EXPECT this type of cleanliness if you are charging a cleaning fee.
Leah
Leah2 years ago
You also have to see it as a psychological marketing tool. People see lower price per night and don't flinch at a small cleaning fee vs higher per night and no additional fees. Both ways are perfectly fine. Guests that book my place are still getting a heck of a deal for a whole place, even compared to those with just a private room. Then, location comes into play as another factor. Obviously, guests are all over the spectrum of what is value priced vs actual price paid. Even with my cleaning fee, guests have always been tidy.
Nicole
Nicole2 years ago
I agree... It's about end value no matter where you put the "fees".
John
John2 years ago
I rent my summer cottages only by the week (or 5 nites minimum) and depending on unit involved, my cleaning fee is $40 to $75 because that's what my hired crew charges me -but- compared to almost all other places around here, my costs are low -- usually it's $100-$150 for similar places. -- And that cost is only the basic cleaning -- and my customers supply their own linens so no effort for that.
Reply Like 1 reply Delete
Maggie
Maggie2 years ago
LOVE your red cottages!!
Tania & Andrew
Tania & Andrew2 years ago
Thank you everyone for all your comments!
Reply Like Delete
Cheryl
Cheryl2 years ago
I charge a cleaning fee. I think it's fair because whether you hire a cleaner or do it yourself, it is an extra expense be it money or your time. Extra costs are stated upfront and I have not had any complaints from guests about it. At the end of the day I think one has to do what they feel comfy with and is going to be fair for both parties
Reply Like Delete
Fleur, Dan and kids
Fleur, Dan and kids2 years ago
I've just recently removed my cleaning fee ($25AUD) and slightly raised my nightly fees by $10 per night. I've actually found recently that my place has been kept spotless now and it's taking me less time to clean. Maybe people expect more if they get charged the fee? I'm losing a little bit with one or two night bookings but def saving time.
Reply Like 1 like Delete
Nic and Rach
Nic and Rach2 years ago
Host/s has their own style of managing their properties/listings and not all guest/s are clean whether professional/non professional tourists/non tourist a minimal cleaning fee for me is worth it and I will pay for it. We travel 4 to 5 times in a year out of the country and 10 times or more within the country we stayed in hotels and airbnb and you pay for the price for those 4 basic categories Safety,Security,Comfortabilty and Cleanliness If I am a guest in your properties or listings I will give you my honest review about cleanliness . When I see a strand or wisp of hair whether in the bed, bathroom, or any common areas to me is a sign of " not clean " When I check in in a hotel I check the bathroom first the commode needs to be super clean and no signs of any perceptibility or visualness of sort , the tubs/bathroom walls should be free of soap scum and hard water stains bathroom fixtures/mirrors and floors should be spotless and if I see anything in that particular space.... then. that for me is a turn off then, I check the bed if there are signs of stains or hair then to me that's a turn off. Not clean ! for me, I pay for what I think is worth it and that's important.
Reply Like 8 replies•1 like Delete
Tracy
Tracy2 years ago
I've never gotten dinged for cleanliness - I work at home as well (with clients visiting) so it's always clean. But TBH I'd be afraid to have you stay! It's a shared listing (we live here) and sometimes hairs do fall out of your head during the day ;-) I think you'd find yourself happy with the rest though ;-)
Andrew
Andrew2 years ago
I was thinking the same as Tracy, actually. How on earth would an in-home host go about preventing a strand of hair in the common areas? Do we all have to shave our heads now?
Rick
Rick2 years ago
I had the same thoughts!! I don't think a "white glove" inspection is necessary when I check in somewhere. Wondering how you can stay anywhere with such exacting standards. Humans lose 30--50 hairs s day. Can we get every one if them every time??!! I think not.
Leah
Leah2 years ago
I hate seeing hair too. It means not doing a thorough job in checking the linens prior to the next guest. One place I stayed had pubic hair stuck in the towels. I hammered the host. WTF? Check it damn close.
Rick
Rick2 years ago
Hair is more a female issue than a male....most of us guys see it & move on....women tend to freak out dunno why
Tracy
Tracy2 years ago
I am not keen on hair on linen - sheets towels etc. Maybe it helps that I iron, but as I have a huge mop of hair I always 'screen' the sheet for my own hairs before pulling up the next layer of them so there aren't any in the bed/pillows etc.
Tania & Andrew
Tania & Andrew2 years ago
I keep my place super clean but I live in the listing. The guest have his/her own room and bathroom which is hairless and spotless but I do tend to lose hair specially during stressful times. I keep my hair tied but there still may be a hair on the floor once in a while. I'd be terrified to host someone like Nic and Rach
Maggie
Maggie2 years ago
I have been wearing a shower cap when cleaning guest areas and also when preparing food to prevent the natural process of hair inconveniently falling as I know people are super sensitive about this issue - those hairs are also hard to pick up sometimes so I don't need to add any of my own!
Andrew
Andrew2 years ago
Here's the thing: having three 2-night bookings in a week is a lot more work for us than having one 6-night booking, but without a cleaning fee they net an equal amount of money.
I charge a small cleaning fee in order to sustain a very low nightly rate. It's effectively a supplementary charge for shorter stays. Every time I change the room over between guests and wait for a guest to arrive, that's an extra amount of labor and scheduling and potential time off from work that I need to be compensated for. The cleaning fee is the one tool we have for fixing a flat per-booking charge, to make those short-term bookings worthwhile.
If it were up to me, I'd probably call it something other than the "cleaning fee," since I think of a clean property as an absolutely non-optional, essential part of the deal. For hosts that intend to attract short-term bookings, I would generally discourage charging an amount that is equal to the cost of the housekeeper, as it's not particularly good value for the guest.
Reply Like 6 likes Delete
Rick
Rick2 years ago
Has anyone priced cleaning services in N:YC?? $25 is a bargain....My cleaning lady charges me $50 to clean a one bedroom apt...the laundry charges me $20 to do the bedding...I charge the guests $30....I think that's totally reasonable & not trying to "gouge" anyone...Hey hosts: Isn't our time worth something??? Mine is worth more than $25/hour!! I agree that short term bookings are more expensive...turnover adds lots of costs...
Reply Like 1 like Delete
Tracy
Tracy2 years ago
I don't charge a cleaning fee - I'm very clean anyway, I have to clean every day when I see clients at home (bathroom/common area), I do a deep clean of the bathroom and bedroom prior to each guest. I consider it part of the process!
Reply Like 1 reply•2 likes Delete
Leah
Leah2 years ago
When I used to rent out a bedroom, I didn't charge the cleaning fee. Now that I am renting out my cottage as an entire space, cleaning fee. Many hosts live away from those separate listings so gas needs to be factored in as well.
mark
mark2 years ago
We don't have a cleaning fee for exactly the reason Andrew expressed "a clean property as an absolutely non-optional". For us it's easy to build it into the flat price as 99% of our guests are short term tourists and we prefer it that way. Further, I believe culture plays a part with this issue. Some are used to the endless "the price is the price - plus this -plus that - plus the other". It is something I personally find annoying, so I don't do it - I build it into the price. There is no add on for electricity, internet or water. They are basic costs of doing business.
I remember a comment from someone a few months ago that the cleaning fee was to "not to clean up after departure but to ensure the place was clean before the guest arrives" (or something similar). This is a piece of logic will forever be lost on me.
Andrews other point (re: the higher cost of short term stays) is also excellent. Sadly Airbnb is inflexible when it comes scaling/varying the price of short term stays - so (to me) the poorly titled "cleaning fee" has a part to play.
Reply Like 3 likes Delete
John
John2 years ago
Part of why I prefer having the cleaning fee as separate item instead of building it into base cost is that it more easily allows me to skip it on the three cases when I don't charge it or charge a lower amt: 1) guests turning over rental to other family members (like sister to sister; parents to kids, etc). 2) last rental of season as no need to clean floors when I'm going to mess them up! 3) When there is a 2+ day gap before next tenant and outgoing tenant wants to save money and cleans it and gives me plenty of time to verify.
Reply Like 1 like Delete
Karyo&Colin
Karyo&Colin2 years ago
We do not charge a cleaning fee, I have never booked into a hotel for 2 nights @£50 per night then been given a bill for £125! To me cleanliness of a space is obligatory and not an option. I really dislike all these'extras' and have read airbnb is going to give us a new list of ,extras, we can add to our guests bills! I think include everything in your nightly rate - with no hidden extras - the guests appreciate the honesty
Reply Like 5 likes Delete
Gordon
Gordon2 years ago
I worry that airbnb will turn into the lo-cost carrier of accommodation, ie. everything is pretty much an 'extra'. Be straight and up front; build your costs into your price.
Reply Like 4 likes Delete
Rick
Rick2 years ago
I think it's important to note that in the United States, nothing is the price that's marked....unlike Europe (& many other places in the world); we tack on additional local & state taxes to the price of an item ---this is done at check out, when you pay....we have no VAT (& are horrified when we find out the actual % of it!!)....So paying "add ons" is nothing new & not insidious or "evil" or even "sneaky" to us...it's just how business is done...When renting a vacation cottage at the beach or in the mountains, there is invariably a "cleaning fee'....it's listing right there (as it is on our listings on airbnb)....
So, add it if you like...build it in if you like....it won't make much difference...but it's certainly not a conspiracy or plot...
to keep foreigners on their toes, each US state has a different tax rate!! So what you pay for an apple in NYC is different from an apple in Florida....there are one or 2 states who charge no "sales tax"---I think Delaware is one of them....maybe also Washington state??
Reply Like 9 replies•2 likes Delete
Leah
Leah2 years ago
New Hampshire is tax free too
Rebecca
Rebecca2 years ago
Yes indeed, good point Rick. Thinking about New York and tipping..... god, that was a minefield the first time there. Is it enough? Where do I put it? Will they chase me down the street if I didn't leave enough etc I still maintain, though, that add-ons are annoying and run the risk of reducing trust. Particularly the cleaning fee - it doesn't fly with me that you have to pay a cleaner. Because ultimately you're NOT paying the cleaner - the guest is paying for him/her. And they really shouldn't have to. Cleanliness should be standard, not extra.
Rick
Rick2 years ago
well, in my case, I partially am...since my cleaning charge does not cover what the cleaner charges---oh & they WILL chase you down the street in NYC...(I've seen it!)
Rick
Rick2 years ago
Leah: ahh...yes...New Hampshire...the "live free or die" people...they would be tax free---those frugal yanks!
Rebecca
Rebecca2 years ago
rick, well I avoided being chased down the street and l learned through observation that a $5 dollar note fits nicely under a wine glass. Ha! If only I'd had my cocktail dress on at the time, I'd have felt almost cool ha ha. Ach well, we all do our thing. Cleaning fee, no cleaning fee - it's a case of finding what works for you.
Nic and Rach
Nic and Rach2 years ago
Well said Mr. Rick and I will vote for you if you run for president : Florida, Texas and New Hampshire - has no state tax but they will kill you on gasoline/fuel tax like 57.6 cents to 63.6 cents( cpg) (email hidden) NYC & Ca to be the highest and Alaska to be the lowest. but anyway, I think the U.S is the only country that tax so much, We have the Federal Tax, The Sales Tax, Property Tax and Income Tax.. where in GB and Canada I believe has a National Tax and Vat that's it .. am I right ? so, I believe that Airbnb is adding these " EXTRA'S" cause they know better.. SO, I think it's a benefit for the host/s in the USA if not in other countries that does'nt have that kind of expense.
Leah
Leah2 years ago
Californians, such as myself, pay the sunshine tax too :-P
Fleur, Dan and kids
Fleur, Dan and kids2 years ago
Oh Rebecca tipping is terrifying hey! I never know what to do either. Totally alien for us Aussies.
Rick
Rick2 years ago
tipping is not hard...15--20% of service rendered...pls remember that server in restaurant may be earning as low as $2/hr--so they depend on tips for their salary..
Karyo&Colin
Karyo&Colin2 years ago
Good point Rick, It is easy to forget the different ways and cultures from around the world
Reply Like Delete
Nic and Rach
Nic and Rach2 years ago
Effective 2015 I will maintain my nightly rates but I will give the guest/s an option if they want the extra's, I can not build those extra's in my nightly rates because of the competition, Airbnb are becoming more popular here and abroad and we are not only competing with each area hosts but also hotels and B&B's and I'm sure that Guest/s will always have that mentality of spending less on their trips or vacations so, they will be looking for a lower nightly rate that offer's amenities that they only need. for some, maybe just bed and bath in a private room or for others they may need, entire home/bed/bath and beyond. so we have to be creative as well how are we going to WOW our guest's that will buy the " Extra's " And that's what is Airbnb is all about the uniqueness of sharing. and each host has their own unique way of hosting their guest's without losing the value and the hospitality that they provide.
Reply Like Delete
Kari
Kari2 years ago
In my opinion a cleaning fee is a way of encentiving longer stays. Someone who stays for just a few nights pays less but requires the same work as some who stays for a week or two or more. The number I changeovers is relative to the work, laundry, etc. Every guest should get clean linens and I would say $5 is not enough to cover your expense to clean. Consider you will pay about $20 an hour for a cleaning service and even if you do the work yourself you should pay yourself. I would ask for $5 am I only getting a 15 min clean? I also allow pets and charge an additional $75 cleaning fee to take care of the dog hair. With this all in mind I did opt to set an aggressive price per night which it seems several hosts in my city do. Then charge more for weekends and holidays and he cleaning fee to cover the shorter stays. But if what you are doing works for you think before you change it.
Reply Like 1 reply•1 like Delete
Tania & Andrew
Tania & Andrew2 years ago
Hello Kari. 5 usd covers it perfectly. The maid charges me that to clean the guest's area and I have my own washing machine and plenty of space to hang them. In Mexico things are very different and a lot cheaper
Kari
Kari2 years ago
Yes being in Mexico is very different for many reasons. I wish I had the luxury of line drying linens but with our NW wet rain that isn't even an option. The added humidity also means more electricity for the drying cycle.
Reply Like Delete
Radoslava
Radoslava2 years ago
Hello everybody, I live in Vienna and my "Airbnb Apartment" is in Bratislava. I charge €20 as a cleaning fee, because this is what I pay for my cleaning lady and I leave a bottle of good wine for guests (€8). But I charge less for a night. I don't want to "punish" the longer stays. So I can only agree with Kari. I'm not interested in adding on "Extras", also to be a guest and pay for extras - it will bother me. )
Reply Like Delete
Deborah