What is Turnover?

Airbnb turnover, also called the rental turnover process, is the essential step of preparing a short-term rental for the next guest. This includes cleaning, restocking essentials, inspecting for damages, and making sure the property matches guest expectations. A smooth turnover is what separates 5-star stays from negative reviews—and ultimately drives profitability. The cost of bad turnover shows up in poor guest experiences, cancellations, and lost revenue.

In this short-term rental cleaning guide, we’ll break down the full turnover timeline, share a core turnover checklist, and explore whether it’s better to DIY or hire a professional turnover company. You’ll also find recommended tools and supplies, advanced strategies for scaling turnovers across multiple properties, and a conclusion that ties it all together: a reliable turnover process is the backbone of every successful Airbnb business.