How to Setup Kitchen for AirBnB – First, no one likes bad reviews. What is the number one reason why host get negative kitchen feedback on reviews? Not providing the essentials. This post contains lists of must-have supplies and hacks for setting up your kitchen like a superhost.
Lucky for you, this short post will provide you with a framework for kitchen success. Learn how to setup your vacation rental kitchen for 5-star reviews below:
Setup your kitchen for AirBnB with the right supplies…
This list will make sure your vacation rental kitchen has guest essentials at all times:
- Appliances
- Blender
- Toaster
- Coffee Maker
- Set of Knives
- Glass Set
- Wine Glasses
- Dinnerware
- Plastic Dishes
- Utensils
- Cookware (Pots and Pans)
- Kitchen Towels
- Coffee Maker
- Cutting Board
- Oven Mitts
- Drying Mat for Dishes
- Trash Receptacle
- Kettle
Items to supply in kitchen between rentals:
- Sponge
- Dish Soap
- Dishwashing Pods
- Paper Towel
- Trash Bags
- Coffee
- Salt and Pepper
- Tea
What does AirBnB say about stocking a kitchen?
Airbnb has a few helpful threads for hosts who want to stock their kitchens, but I have done the research to provide you the essentials in this post. They don’t have strict guidelines for kitchens – as long as they are safe, welcoming, and friendly.
Should I provide condiments like ketchup, honey, and sugar in my rental?
I see the good intent there, but absolutely not. Half eaten condiments are gross and can actually detract from the appeal of your kitchen. Any perishables are a no-no. With that said, you should provide sugar and sweetener that are in individually sealed bags. Same with coffee and tea. Do not, I repeat do not put used coffee or tea.
Less is more, do not clutter your kitchen
Putting two toasters or two coffee makers is not necessary. I looked after a home for several years with a stubborn owner who had too many coffee makers. It really looked bad and thankfully, he took the advice to declutter and now his rental looks a lot better. This holds true for too many plates and utensils as well. The cleaning staff is going to be constantly battling dirty dishes when people use double the dishes. Supply 2 of each utensil, bowl, and plate. You get the picture. If your place hosts 10, 20 forks, 20 knives, 20 spoons, 20 bowls, and 20 plates.
Rule of 2 – buy 2 of each for each guest your place accommodates:
- Bowl
- Glass
- Medium Plate
- Plate
- Fork, Spoon, Knife
- Wine Glass
Appliance Essentials for a Welcoming Vacation Rental
Homes should come with a refrigerator, oven, and stove – that means fully functional. Please make sure housekeeping is constantly checking on these items for you. A nonworking appliance is a huge pain point for guests and will lead to bad reviews if not checked. Outdated ovens can run hot and ruin a dinner, burners can be uneven causing the pan to burn eggs – problems do come up. Nothing is worse to a guest than a ruined meal.
Best Coffee Maker for a Vacation Rental
I like Keurig, but an inexpensive Mr. Coffee may do the trick.
Matching kitchen sets are essential for a 5-star first impression…
Please, skip the stuff that came with the house when you bought it…the home needs matching dinnerware sets, glasses, and utensils. You want your place to look like it came off the cover of a kitchen design magazine…not Aunt Edna’s kitchen. Having a matching set goes a long way to create a lasting first impression with a hotel-level experience.
Provide cleaning supplies for everyday messes.
Messes can happen – your guests want to keep your place tidy. Under the sink or in an extra pantry, place the following cleaning supplies for everyday messes.
Under sink list of cleaning items:
- Dishwasher pods
- All Purpose Cleaner
- Baking Soda
- Carpet Stain Remover
- Stainless Steel Cleaner
- Extra Sponges
- Paper Towel
Essential cleaning supplies to leave for guest:
- Broom
- Mop or Swiffer
- Dust Pan
- Bucket
