How to Remove Pet Hair, Stains & Odors from Your Airbnb | Host Cleaning Tips

Photo by Daniel Montalvo / Unsplash

Thinking about allowing pets in your Airbnb? Or already a pet-friendly host?

While welcoming furry guests can increase bookings, it also comes with one unavoidable challenge: cleaning up after them.

From stubborn pet hair to lingering odors and unexpected stains, managing pet messes requires the right tools, and the right approach.

After plenty of real-world experience (including a few post-holiday pet cleanups), we’re sharing our go-to tips to keep your unit fresh, clean, and guest-ready.

Removing Pet Hair from Furniture & Linens

Pet hair has a way of getting everywhere, especially in fabrics.

Here are two simple but highly effective tools:

Lint Rollers: Your First Line of Defense

Lint rollers are essential for:

• Bed sheets and pillowcases

• Duvet covers

• Upholstered furniture

• Small rugs and fabric surfaces

They’re quick, easy, and surprisingly effective for fast turnovers.

Squeegees: The Underrated Secret Tool

It might sound unusual, but it works.

Using a standard squeegee on soft surfaces like:

• Couches

• Velvet or delicate fabrics

…can help gather fine pet hair into visible clumps.

Simply run it back and forth and watch the hair collect, making it easy to remove.

How to Remove Pet Odors from Your Airbnb

Even well-behaved pets can leave behind odors, especially in soft surfaces.

Baking Soda: A Simple, Effective Solution

Baking soda is one of the easiest ways to neutralize smells.

How to use it:

1. Lightly sprinkle baking soda over the affected area

2. Let it sit for about 30 minutes

3. Vacuum thoroughly

This works especially well for:

• Couches

• Carpets

• Mattresses

It’s affordable, safe, and highly effective.

How to Remove Pet Stains (Carpet & Fabric)

Stains happen, but quick action makes all the difference.

Here are two proven methods:

Vinegar + Baking Soda Method

Best for deeper stains and odors.

Steps:

1. Pour vinegar directly onto the stain (fully saturate it)

2. Add a small amount of baking soda (you’ll see it react)

3. Let it dry for 1–2 days

4. Vacuum or wipe away residue

This combination helps break down both stains and odors.

Dish Soap Cleaning Solution

Ideal for fresh stains.

Steps:

1. Blot the area with a disposable towel

2. Mix:

   • 1 cup warm water

   • ¼ teaspoon dishwashing liquid

3. Spray onto the stain

4. Let it sit for a few minutes

5. Blot or vacuum the area

6. Rinse and repeat as needed

This method is gentle but effective for most fabric surfaces.

Pro Tip: Help Guests Help You

One of the smartest things you can do as a pet-friendly host is prepare your guests ahead of time.

What We Recommend

• Leave a small box of baking soda under the sink

• Provide simple cleanup instructions for accidents

• Encourage guests to treat stains immediately

This:

• Reduces long-term damage

• Helps your cleaning team

• May prevent additional cleaning fees

Clear communication goes a long way in protecting your property.

Should You Allow Pets in Your Airbnb?

Allowing pets can:

• Increase bookings

• Attract longer stays

• Differentiate your listing

But it also requires:

• Strong cleaning systems

• Extra supplies

• Reliable turnover support

If you’re offering a pet-friendly space, consistency is key.

Learn how we help hosts maintain clean, guest-ready units: 👉 Airbnb cleaning and restock services

Keep Your Airbnb Fresh, Even with Pets

Pet-friendly doesn’t have to mean messy.

With the right tools, systems, and preparation, you can:

• Maintain a clean space

• Eliminate odors

• Protect your furniture and flooring

• Deliver a great guest experience every time

And when in doubt, having a professional cleaning team makes all the difference.

👉 Visit Turnovur to learn more.

FAQ: Pet Cleaning for Airbnb Hosts

1. What is the best way to remove pet hair from furniture? 

Lint rollers and squeegees are simple and effective tools for removing pet hair from fabric surfaces.

2. How do I get rid of pet odor in my Airbnb? 

Baking soda is a proven method for neutralizing odors in carpets, couches, and bedding.

3. What removes pet stains from carpet? 

Vinegar and baking soda or a mild dish soap solution can effectively remove most pet stains.

4. Should I allow pets in my Airbnb? 

Allowing pets can increase bookings but requires strong cleaning systems and preparation.

5. How can I prevent pet damage in my rental? 

Provide cleaning supplies, clear instructions, and maintain consistent turnover cleaning practices.