If you’re staying in an Airbnb rental, should you have to do chores?
This is the interesting buzz on social media after the Wall Street Journal reported that Airbnb hosts charge higher cleaning fees, and some require guests to also mow the lawn, do laundry, and perform other chores.
“If I’m paying $229 a night to stay somewhere plus $125 cleaning fee, I’m not doing laundry,” one TikToker said in a video that has since been taken down.
“I know it’s like a load of laundry and it will take me two minutes to do, but it’s the principle that really bothers me.”
Some Airbnb hosts are reportedly requiring guests to perform household chores in addition to cleaning fees of up to $375.
“Guests say they’re frustrated because cleaning fees have gone up as hosts have added extra tasks,” the Journal reported. “They say some hosts don’t list cleaning requirements online, surprising guests after they book.”
Some customers have complained online “about being asked to mow the lawn or feed the farm animals”.
As a result, some people who might have preferred an Airbnb rental are turning to hotels instead, where you’re generally not expected to wash the sheets (or feed the cow) before you leave.
“Would you like guests to load dirty dishes in the dishwasher or remove bed linens before checking out? If so, consider charging a very minimal cleaning fee – or no fee at all,” Airbnb advise guests.
“With higher fees, customers can expect to walk away from your space at checkout like they would from a hotel room.”
These are growing pains for a relatively young industry. But they also reflect the fact that owners and visitors still accept shared responsibilities.
Many hosts reasonably expect guests to leave properties largely as they found them.
Many customers reasonably believe that they should receive the same treatment as hotel guests.
Conclusion: Be sure to clarify from the start the cleaning costs and the additional tasks that are required of you.
Cleaning is to be expected.
I draw the line when mowing the lawn.
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