No more dishwashing: Airbnb redefines checkout expectations for travelers

Airbnb is eliminating the need for guests to perform checkout chores such as washing dishes, changing linens and taking out the trash, effective November 20. The platform's new policy states that hosts may only request "reasonable" tasks from guests, which typically would be handled by professional cleaners. Guests are still expected to leave dishes in the sink, collect used towels and sort trash, but hosts cannot demand additional chores they would normally handle.

Airbnb emphasizes the importance of guests considering what would be unreasonable from their perspective. The company acknowledges that cleaning fees can set different expectations between hosts and travelers. Exceptions may be made in specific situations, such as requiring guests to place trash in bear-proof containers when staying in bear-infested areas.

Starting November 20, hosts must also list all house rules and requests in a dedicated section of their listing before guests book. They cannot add new requirements through messages, signs in the property or other listing sections. Airbnb is standardizing house rules into seven categories, including overnight guests, quiet hours, pets, smoking and whether guests must lock up upon checkout.

This change is part of Airbnb's ongoing efforts to make the booking process more predictable for travelers. In 2023, CEO Brian Chesky acknowledged that the variety of properties on the platform creates uncertainty among guests. Chesky stated that Airbnb wants to ensure guests know exactly what to expect before they book, aiming to eliminate the "moment of truth" upon check-in.