No more dirty laundry: Airbnb puts limits on checkout chores

Airbnb is updating its policy to limit the cleaning chores hosts can ask guests to do when checking out. This change, effective November 20, aims to clarify expectations and reduce confusion for both hosts and travellers. The new rules prohibit hosts from requiring guests to strip beds, do laundry, wash dishes, or dispose of rubbish, except for simpler tasks like placing dishes in the sink or separating waste into designated bins.

Airbnb will require hosts to disclose all house rules and requests in their listings before bookings, preventing surprise demands during check-out. The platform will assess the reasonableness of these requirements, considering factors like accommodation type and local circumstances. While some hosts criticize the restriction, feeling it could increase costs or create hygiene issues, travellers generally welcome the change, questioning why they should perform household chores when cleaning fees are already included.