04/08/2026
🏡 Airbnb / VRBO Etiquette: A Few Things Every Great Guest Should Know:
One of the biggest differences between a hotel and an Airbnb / VRBO is that you’re staying in someone’s home, not a commercial hotel. Most Airbnb / VRBO hosts take great pride in their properties and work hard to keep them beautiful for the next guest. A little courtesy goes a long way!
Here are a few tips that every Airbnb / VRBO guest should know:
✨ Skip the self-tanner… or bring your own linens.
Self-tanner can permanently stain white sheets, towels, washcloths, furniture, and even shower surfaces. If you plan on using it during your vacation, consider bringing your own dark-colored towels, pillowcases, and sheets. Your host will thank you!
🧳 Keep luggage off the furniture.
Suitcases pick up dirt, grease, bacteria, and debris from airports, sidewalks, parking lots, taxis, and baggage claim. Placing them on beds, sofas, chairs, or other upholstered furniture can transfer that grime and damage fabrics. If possible, use a luggage rack, the floor, or a hard surface instead. If it's been raining or wet out please remove your shoes.
🎵 Keep the music to yourself.
If you’re at a shared pool, beach, or in a condominium, remember that everyone is on vacation. Not everyone wants to hear someone else’s playlist. Headphones or keeping the volume very low is the considerate choice.
🤫 Respect quiet hours.
Many Airbnb communities have neighbors who live there full-time or other guests who are trying to relax. Loud conversations on balconies, slamming doors, and late-night gatherings can easily disturb others.
📹 Don’t tamper with exterior doorbell cameras.
Many vacation rentals have exterior-only Ring or similar doorbell cameras for security and to verify arrivals. Please don’t place tape, Band-Aids, stickers, or anything else over the lens. In hot weather, the adhesive can melt onto the camera, permanently damaging the lens and often requiring the entire unit to be replaced. If you have privacy concerns, simply ask your host. Airbnb prohibits cameras inside the home, but exterior security cameras are common and should never be covered or tampered with.
🚪 Treat the home like your own. Not a hotel or motel.
Wipe up spills, keep trash put in the proper places. Don’t drag luggage across wood floors, avoid sitting on furniture in wet swimsuits, don’t rearrange the furniture unless necessary (and please put it back before you leave), and report any accidental damage right away. Most hosts appreciate honesty far more than surprises after checkout.
❄️ Use the A/C responsibly.
In many vacation destinations, electricity is extremely expensive. Please don’t leave doors or windows open while the air conditioning is running, and turn it off or raise the temperature when you’re away.
🗑️ Follow the house rules.
Whether it’s parking, smoking, extra guests, pets, or using certain amenities, the rules are there for a reason. Reading them before you arrive can prevent misunderstandings. Be aware of check in and check out times, as there are scheduled cleanings and turnarounds that need to be done on schedule. Hosts will accommodate any requests if possible, as long as they are made ahead of time.
🍳 Leave the kitchen reasonably clean.
You don’t need to deep clean, but washing your dishes, wiping the counters, and taking out the trash (if requested) is a thoughtful gesture. Food or anything that would attract bugs should be cleaned up immediately. Dispose of all food, even in the refrigerators unless the products are not opened.
🧴 Be mindful of what goes down the drains.
Many vacation homes use septic systems or older plumbing. Avoid flushing wipes, feminine products, paper towels, grease, or anything other than toilet paper unless instructed otherwise.
🛏️ Remember that cleaning fees aren’t for excessive messes.
The cleaning fee covers sanitizing and preparing the home for the next guest—not hours of picking up trash, scrubbing stains, or repairing damage.
⭐ A little kindness goes a long way.
Communication is everything. If something isn’t right, let your host know during your stay so they have the opportunity to make it right. And if you loved your stay, leaving a great review means the world to small Airbnb / VRBO hosts.
At the end of the day, Airbnb / VRBO is about staying in real homes hosted by real people—not giant hotel chains. A little respect and consideration help keep these unique homes beautiful and affordable for everyone to enjoy. ❤️
