In brief
Airbnb has rolled out new guidelines banning hosts from asking guests to perform chores typically handled by a cleaner, such as stripping beds or washing dishes. The updated policy limits hosts to seven standard house rules, with only “reasonable” extra requests allowed, and promises to flag violations automatically. Guests will see the rules prominently in their reservation reminders, while hosts still control their property’s standards but cannot impose fines. The move follows widespread criticism about unreasonable duties after guests pay cleaning fees, and comes as Airbnb refines its user‑experience platform to stay fair and transparent.
Airbnb’s Latest Rule Change – From now on, hosts can no longer ask guests to strip beds or wash dishes before checking out.
After reviewing community feedback, Airbnb introduced a new set of house‑rule guidelines that limit hosts to seven standard rules, plus the option to add one “reasonable” request. Cleaning‑related tasks are now strictly off‑limits, including washing dishes, switching out linens, and taking trash to the curb.
The new policy applies to every booking made on or after 20 November. It also makes house rules easier to find and clearly labels them in reservation reminders, giving guests a heads‑up before arrival.
Owners still manage their property’s expectations, but they can no longer demand fines from guests. If a request violates the guidelines, Airbnb will flag it and owners may appeal if they disagree.
The change comes after a flurry of viral social‑media posts where hosts—like a Georgia couple in TikTok videos—inspected properties after guests left, demanding that items such as remote controls be returned properly. Viewers argued that the duties were excessive, especially given the cleaning fee guests already pay.
Airbnb says the goal is to keep stays fair, clear and surprise‑free, reinforcing that while hosts can set house rules, they must remain within a realm of common sense and legality.
