Vacation Rental Kitchen Checklist: Airbnb Essentials for Kitchens

Kitchens are often the main point of difference between an Airbnb and a hotel. After all, a delicious, home-cooked meal can make your day better, even if it's just something simple you whipped up in a flash.

But, just like anything else, you need the right tools in a kitchen to make it good — imagine how frustrated your guests would feel if they started cooking and didn't have everything they needed. Having Airbnb kitchen essentials stocked up can set you up for success and help you earn those coveted five-star reviews.

Learn how to create a kitchen space that's both functional and inviting with our vacation rental kitchen checklist below.

Airbnb Kitchen Essentials: Important Things to Keep in Mind

• A good rule of thumb for your entire kitchen is to put yourself in the guest’s shoes and anticipate what they might want on any given day. Consistency is key - if you offer your guests wine, be sure to include a wine opener. If you offer your guests coffee - have enough coffee pods and mugs per guest.
• Always keep your home’s capacity in mind when supplying your guests with kitchen essentials. If your home can accommodate 8 people or more, have  enough crockery and cutlery to cook for at least 8 people.
• If you find that guests are frequently asking you about how to use the kitchen, you can also try to provide a printed kitchen guide.

Get personalised tips about Airbnb kitchen essentials and more by reaching out to Hometime.

Short-Term Rental Kitchen List

1. Basic Airbnb Kitchen Essentials

• Quality Cookware and Baking Necessities: Quality matters — durable, easy-to-clean items go a long way:
  
  • Small skillet
  • Large skillet
  • Small saucepan with lid
  • Larger saucepan with lid
  • Larger pot
  • Baking sheet/cookie sheet
  • Cake pan
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Muffin pan
  • Loaf pan
  • Casserole dishes (2)
  • Large serving bowls and plates for family-style meals

• Cutting-edge Tools: These kitchen utensils are a must for your short term rental kitchen:
  • Kitchen scissors
  • Tongs
  • Spatula
  • Slotted spoon
  • Ladle
  • Whisk
  • Grilling tools (if you have a barbecue)
  • Vegetable peeler
  • Can opener
  • Corkscrew with bottle opener
  • Box grater
  • Can opener
  • Colander
  • Tupperware for food storage

2. Dinnerware and Utensils

• Plates and Bowls: A set for at least twice the number of your maximum guests. Mix and match for a touch of whimsy.
• Cutlery: Forks, knives, tablespoons, and teaspoons, ensure there's plenty for all.
• Glasses and Cups: Water glasses, wine glasses, and a couple of mugs for that morning coffee.

Hometime Tip: To give your guests a better dining experience, have on decorative items like tablecloths or vases on hand.

3. Airbnb Kitchen Appliances

• A Fridge/mini-fridge: Especially handy in the summertime when everyone's craving cool drinks.
• Oven: Great for travellers who want to make an extra effort to cook or bake.
• A Reliable Coffee Machine: Because nothing says 'good morning' like a freshly brewed cup of coffee. Don’t forget to stock up on beans or pods.
• Toaster and Microwave: Quick breakfasts and easy meal warm-ups are a must for the on-the-go traveller.
• Blender: For smoothie lovers and those who appreciate a good soup puree.

4. Airbnb Pantry Essentials

• Spice Rack: A selection of basic spices and seasonings. It's the little touches that count.
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Spices and seasonings
• Kettle: A nod to tea enthusiasts and a cozy addition for chilly evenings.
• Cooking Basics: Cooking oil, cooking spray, extra virgin olive oil for salads
• Breakfast Extras: Coffee, creamer, sugar, tea, single-serve cereal packets, fresh milk, and other breakfast items would always be appreciated.

Hometime Tip: Make sure the coffee is good quality (not instant!) and provide fresh milk in the fridge. Our favourite Airbnb kitchens, no matter the size, are those that have been intentionally kitted out, with small gestures that make a big difference. Want to go the extra mile? Provide biscuits or crunchies to go with your guest’s coffee - they will appreciate a snack upon arrival.

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5. Airbnb Cleaning and Maintenance Supplies

• Eco-Friendly Cleaning Agents: Opt for environmentally friendly options for dish soap, surface cleaners, and hand soap.
• Sponges and Scrubbers: Durable and effective for keeping everything from dishes to countertops sparkling.
• Dish and Paper Towels: Absorbent and handy for quick clean-ups and drying dishes.
• Food Storage and Cooking: Aluminium foil, plastic wrap, baking paper, ziplock bags and storage containers may be useful.
• Rubbish Bags and Recycling Bins: Encourage guests to keep the kitchen tidy.
• At a bare minimum we suggest including the following:
  • Napkins and paper towels
  • Food storage containers
  • Plastic wrap
  • Aluminium foil
  • Trash bags
  • Dish soap
  • Sponges
  • Disinfectant wipes
  • Sink drying rack
  • Optional extras
  • Paper towels
  • Aluminium foil
  • Ziplock bags
  • Plastic wrap

Hometime Tip: Don’t forget to tell your guests where the trash and recycling are located at your house and how the system in your building/area works.

6. Airbnb Kitchen Essentials for Family-Friendly and Pet-Friendly Airbnbs

If you welcome little ones or four-legged friends at your property, consider these additions to make them feel at home:

• Child-Safe Utensils: Plastic plates, cups, and cutlery can make mealtime safer and more enjoyable for young guests.
• High Chair: Having a portable high chair available can be a big relief for parents.
• Safety Latches: Install these on cabinets and drawers containing sharp objects or cleaning supplies.
• Pet Bowls: Have dedicated food and water bowls for pet guests.
• Pet-Friendly Treats: A small stash of pet treats can be a delightful surprise for pet owners.

Providing a few extras will provide much-appreciated convenience - and may help bolster your rating. These are items your guests are likely to forget to bring with them or purchase from the store.

7. Safety First: Don't Forget

• Fire Extinguisher: Safety is paramount. A small, kitchen-appropriate extinguisher is a must.
• First Aid Kit: Accidents happen; being prepared is key.
• Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector: Ensure they're working and in place.

Hometime Furnishing Guides for Other Rooms in Your Airbnb

• Best practices for Airbnb interior design to keep in mind
• How to find good furniture for your Airbnb
• Hometime guide to Airbnb bedroom essentials
• Beginner tips to setting up Airbnbs for remote working

Elevate your Short-Term Rental with Hometime's Airbnb Management

At Hometime, we believe it's all about the experience. A well-stocked kitchen speaks volumes about your attention to detail and your desire to provide a comfortable stay. By following this checklist, you're on your way to becoming a top-rated host.

Do you want to elevate your Airbnb game even further? Reach out to Hometime for expert Airbnb management advice and short-term rental management services, including:

• Property onboarding:
  We’ll help you set up your short-term rental as quickly as we can so you can start getting bookings ASAP.
• Listing optimisation:
  Our team constantly works on improving your listing through great content showcasing the best of the property with high-quality professional photos, and creating detailed guides for your guests. This includes property styling and photography to make your Airbnb stand out and to maximise its appeal.
  
• Dynamic pricing strategy:
  Hometime’s pricing analysts and market experts will help optimise your revenue while increasing occupancy at the same time.
  
• Airbnb cleaning services:
  We’ll find the best cleaners in your area to look after your home, whether it’s for regular cleans, deep cleans ready for peak season, or even restocking essentials. We use the built-in cleaning fee from the booking, so there’ll be no need to pay for it out of pocket.
  
• Guest communication and management:
  We go the extra mile to ensure your guests enjoy every part of their stay, from making the booking, checking in, checking out, and everything in between. This includes taking care of maintenance issues quickly, providing alternatives for late-night arrivals, and even meeting them in person when needed!
  
• Property maintenance:
  Hometime’s local Airbnb experts will sort out all your maintenance needs to make both you and your guests happy. We’ll also do our best to get you the best rates for services in the area due to our close relationships with local businesses.