No more washing up: How Airbnb's new house rules have divided hosts and guests

Airbnb's recent house rules have sparked a divide between hosts and guests, with hosts questioning the new restrictions and guests expressing dissatisfaction with the increased cleaning fees and stringent requirements. Lisa Clewes, a Welsh holiday let owner, was dismayed by the mess left by her guests, who failed to clean the house properly after a dinner party.

Clewes now charges a cleaning fee that covers around 75% of the cost of a cleaner, but Airbnb's new rules prohibit hosts from asking guests to perform tasks typically handled by professionals, including washing dishes, stripping beds, and taking out the rubbish.

Jessica Newhook, a guest in Florida, faced a long checklist of tasks to complete before leaving the Airbnb, in addition to the already hefty cleaning fee. She found the experience less relaxing and questioned the value of the additional cleaning fee. Krissi Foskett, a cleaning company owner, also stayed in an Airbnb and was surprised by the expectation to perform professional cleaning duties, despite paying a cleaning fee.

Foskett believes that the distinction between being a considerate guest and being expected to prepare a property for the next occupants should be maintained.

Anthony Marsh, co-owner of a cabin retreat in North Yorkshire, reduced the number of Airbnb listings he hosts due to the new rules. He believes that asking guests to wash their pots and put out the bins is unreasonable and could lead to increased costs, which may be passed on to guests. Laura Lewis, who runs a directory for holiday-let owners, shares the same concern and argues that asking guests to wash up is a matter of basic respect.

The announcement has added to the frustration among owners, who have already faced increases in Airbnb's commission rates. Some hosts are investing in their own websites and social media to attract direct bookings and avoid platform fees. While not all hosts are concerned about the changes, they believe that the update aims to eliminate minor inconveniences and improve the overall guest experience.