How to Prepare Your Airbnb for Winter | Cleaning & Staging Tips for Hosts

Photo by Hannah Busing / Unsplash

Winter can be one of the most rewarding, and challenging seasons for Airbnb hosts.

With colder weather comes more time spent indoors, increased wear and tear on your space, and higher expectations for comfort.

The good news? A few thoughtful updates can make a big difference in both guest experience and your reviews.

If you’re not already updating your unit seasonally, winter is the perfect time to start.

Here are four essential tips to help you prepare your Airbnb for winter and keep your space clean, cozy, and guest-ready.

1. Create a Functional Entryway for Winter Gear

If your property is in a winter climate (especially here in the Pacific Northwest), your entryway becomes the first line of defense against rain, snow, and mud.

Without the right setup, floors can quickly become messy, and damaged.

What to Add to Your Entryway

• Weatherproof welcome mats

• Shoe trays for boots and umbrellas

• Coat racks with drip protection (add a rug underneath)

• A bench or chair for easy shoe removal

Why This Matters

A well-designed entryway:

• Protects your floors

• Makes cleaning easier between guests

• Creates a more welcoming first impression

Small upgrades here can prevent major cleaning headaches later.

2. Upgrade to Cozy Winter Bedding

Comfort is everything during colder months.

Guests are looking for a warm, inviting place to relax, and your bedding plays a huge role in that experience.

Winter Bedding Essentials

• Flannel sheets for added warmth

• Thick comforters or duvet inserts

• Extra blankets in bedrooms and living areas

These touches make your space feel cozy and intentional, something guests remember (and review).

Pro Tip for Hosts

Always keep at least 2–3 sets of linens per bed.

This helps:

• Your cleaning team handle quick turnovers

• Replace damaged or stained items immediately

• Maintain consistency during busy seasons

Need help managing linens and turnovers? Check out our Airbnb cleaning and restock services.

3. Deep Clean Soft Surfaces (Curtains, Pillows & Bedding)

During winter, windows stay closed more often, which means less airflow and more buildup of dust and odors.

Soft surfaces tend to trap these particles over time.

What to Clean

• Curtains and drapes

• Pillow inserts (not just covers)

• Comforters and duvets

Why It’s Important

Cleaning these items:

• Improves air quality

• Removes lingering odors

• Creates a fresher, more comfortable environment

Guests may not always notice when these items are clean, but they definitely notice when they’re not.

Pro Tip

If this feels overwhelming, consider scheduling a deep clean service to handle large laundry items and detailed cleaning.

4. Take Care of Repairs Before Peak Winter Use

Winter means more time spent indoors, which also means guests will notice more details.

That loose cabinet? The worn towels? The flickering light?

Now’s the time to fix them.

Common Winter Prep Fixes

• Repair furniture and fixtures

• Replace worn linens and towels

• Stock extra light bulbs and batteries

• Check appliances and kitchen essentials

Why This Matters

More indoor time = more usage.

And more usage means:

• Higher expectations

• Greater attention to detail

• Increased chances of negative reviews if things are overlooked

Staying proactive keeps your space running smoothly, and your guests happy.

Seasonal Updates = Better Reviews

Preparing your Airbnb for winter isn’t just about maintenance, it’s about experience.

When guests feel:

• Warm

• Comfortable

• Thoughtfully cared for

They’re far more likely to leave glowing reviews and return in the future.

If you want help keeping your unit consistent all season long, learn more here: 👉 Visit Turnovur

Stay Cozy & Guest-Ready This Winter ❄️

Seasonal updates don’t have to be overwhelming, but they do need to be intentional.

A few smart changes can:

• Simplify your cleaning process

• Protect your property

• Elevate your guest experience

What winter updates are you planning for your Airbnb?

FAQ: Preparing Your Airbnb for Winter

1. How do I prepare my Airbnb for winter? 

Focus on entryway protection, warm bedding, deep cleaning soft surfaces, and completing necessary repairs.

2. What bedding is best for Airbnb in winter? 

Flannel sheets, thick comforters, and extra blankets provide warmth and comfort for guests.

3. Why is winter prep important for Airbnb hosts? 

Guests spend more time indoors, increasing wear and expectations for comfort and cleanliness.

4. How often should I deep clean my Airbnb in winter? 

Deep cleans are recommended periodically, especially during high-use seasons.

5. What are common winter mistakes Airbnb hosts make? 

Not updating bedding, ignoring maintenance issues, and failing to prepare for wet or snowy conditions.