Airbnb Setup Checklist for New Hosts

Prepare your space with confidence

Not sure what your Airbnb needs before you welcome your first guest?

You don’t want to overspend on things you won’t use—or miss something your guests will need. This Airbnb setup checklist helps you focus on the essentials, one step at a time.

Use it as a starting point for your own space. Work through each section, adapt it to the facilities you offer and keep it handy for your final check.

Need help deciding what to prioritise? Your first 30-minute hosting call is free.

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Start with comfort, cleanliness and clear information.

You don’t need to buy every item you see in another Airbnb. Start with what makes your space comfortable, practical and easy to use. Add extras when they suit your guests, your property and your budget.

Before you shop, take stock of what you already have. Separate your must-haves from your nice-to-haves, and allow for cleaning, maintenance and replacement supplies.

1. Before you spend: make a plan

Confirm that you have permission to host and check the requirements that apply to your property and location.
Decide what you’ll offer: an entire place, a private room or another clearly defined space.
Choose a realistic guest capacity based on your beds, space and facilities.
Set a budget for furniture, essential supplies and ongoing running costs.
Plan who will handle cleaning, laundry, guest messages and urgent problems.

2. Your bedroom: make a good night’s sleep the priority

Prepare a comfortable mattress, pillows and freshly cleaned bedding.
Keep spare linen ready for changeovers.
Provide curtains or blinds for privacy and light control.
Add bedside lighting and convenient access to power sockets.
Make room for luggage, hanging clothes and personal belongings.

3. Your bathroom: cover the everyday essentials

Deep-clean the bathroom and check the drains, taps and toilet.
Test the shower and any hot-water system.
Prepare clean towels, toilet paper, hand soap and a rubbish bin.
Stock the toiletries you promise in your listing.
Check ventilation, privacy and any slippery surfaces that need attention.

4. Your kitchen and living space: match what you promise

Clean and test every appliance you make available to guests.
Provide enough cups, plates and cutlery for your stated guest capacity if you offer a kitchen.
Include the cooking equipment, washing-up supplies and bin arrangements guests will need.
Check seating, lighting and the comfort of your shared or private living areas.
Remove clutter and make it clear which cupboards or areas are for guest use.

5. Your property: check access and essential safeguards

Check door and window locks, outdoor lighting and the route to the entrance.
Keep exits accessible and address loose fittings, trip hazards and damaged equipment.
Check the safety equipment appropriate to your property and local requirements, including smoke and carbon monoxide detection where applicable.
Place emergency contacts and clear instructions somewhere easy to find.
Check your insurance arrangements and how you’ll organise repairs or urgent assistance.

6. Your listing: show exactly what guests are booking

Photograph the actual bedroom, bathroom, entrance and any shared areas in good light.
Choose an accurate title that highlights a useful feature of your space.
Explain what’s private, what’s shared and which amenities are included.
Describe stairs, parking, access and other details that may affect your guests’ choice.
Review your nightly rate, fees, availability and booking settings before publishing.

7. Your arrival experience: make check-in easy

Write clear directions and explain how guests will access the property.
Set realistic check-in and checkout times that allow for cleaning.
Prepare Wi-Fi details and simple instructions for appliances or other amenities.
Explain your house rules clearly before guests arrive.
Arrange a backup contact or access plan in case you’re unavailable.

8. Your final check: walk through as your first guest

Complete a full clean, change the linen and restock your essentials.
Test the Wi-Fi, lights, locks and listed amenities again.
Follow your own arrival instructions to spot anything confusing.
Check that your photographs and description still match the space.
Prepare a friendly welcome message and confirm who will respond if your guest needs help.

Make your next changeover easier, too.

Once your setup is ready, turn your final checks into a repeatable routine. Keep a list of supplies, note what needs replacing and allow enough time between bookings to prepare your space properly.

For more help with your listing, pricing and guest communication, read my Airbnb hosting guide.

Free 30-minute introductory call

Still wondering whether your space is ready?

You may have a shopping list, a half-finished room or an idea you’re not sure how to move forward with. Bring your questions, and let’s talk about your next steps.

I’m Dopegine, the host behind Just Like Home in Davao City. Drawing on my own hosting experience, I can help you think through your setup priorities, listing questions and preparations for your first guests.

Your first 30-minute call is free. If you’d like more detailed guidance or hands-on help afterwards, paid one-on-one consultations are available. There’s no obligation to continue.