Deep Cleaning vs. Turnover Cleaning: What Your Rental Needs

When managing a vacation rental, cleanliness is a top priority. However, not all cleaning is the same. Understanding the difference between deep cleaning and turnover cleaning is essential for maintaining a high standard, securing positive reviews, and ensuring guest satisfaction. While turnover cleaning keeps your property fresh between guests, deep cleaning tackles hidden grime and long-term buildup. Knowing when and how to apply each type of cleaning can help you maintain a spotless rental.

Turnover cleaning, also known as routine or between-guest cleaning, is the standard cleaning done after each guest checks out and before the next one arrives. It focuses on visible cleanliness and maintaining a guest-ready environment.

• Strip and replace all bed linens and towels.
• Empty trash bins and replace liners.
• Wipe down all surfaces, including countertops and tables.
• Clean and sanitize high-touch areas like light switches, doorknobs, and remotes.
• Vacuum carpets and mop hard floors.
• Clean and disinfect kitchen appliances, sinks, and countertops.
• Scrub and sanitize bathrooms, including toilets, sinks, and showers.
• Restock essentials like toilet paper, paper towels, and toiletries.
• Check for any guest belongings left behind.

• After every guest checks out.
• When preparing for a same-day check-in.
• As a standard cleaning routine to maintain your rental’s appeal.

Deep cleaning goes beyond surface-level tidying and addresses hidden dirt, dust, and grime that accumulate over time. While turnover cleaning keeps your property guest-ready, deep cleaning ensures long-term upkeep and prevents wear and tear.

• Steam clean carpets and upholstery.
• Wash curtains and deep-clean blinds.
• Scrub grout and tile in bathrooms and kitchens.
• Clean inside kitchen cabinets, drawers, and appliances.
• Remove dust from vents, baseboards, and ceiling fans.
• Polish furniture and deep-clean hard surfaces.
• Sanitize under furniture, behind appliances, and in hard-to-reach areas.
• Inspect and clean outdoor spaces like patios and balconies.

• At least once every 3-6 months.
• At the start of a peak rental season.
• After an extended guest stay or high-traffic periods.
• If guests complain about hidden dirt, odors, or declining cleanliness.

Both turnover and deep cleaning play crucial roles in keeping your rental in top shape. Turnover cleaning ensures immediate guest satisfaction, while deep cleaning protects your property from long-term damage. Neglecting deep cleaning can lead to accumulated grime, lingering odors, and maintenance issues that impact your rental’s reputation.

While turnover cleaning can often be managed with a set routine, deep cleaning requires time, effort, and expertise. Hiring professional cleaners like Vacation Property Maids ensures that both turnover and deep cleaning are handled efficiently and to the highest standards.

Understanding the difference between deep cleaning and turnover cleaning is key to maintaining a spotless vacation rental. Turnover cleaning keeps your rental fresh between guests, while deep cleaning ensures long-term cleanliness and property preservation. By balancing both cleaning methods, you can provide an exceptional guest experience and maintain a 5-star reputation.

Need help with vacation rental cleaning? Contact Vacation Property Maids for professional cleaning services tailored to your rental’s needs!