Vacation rental kitchen checklist: Airbnb essentials for kitchens

For many travelers, kitchens are often the main point of difference between an Airbnb and a hotel. After all, a delicious, home-cooked meal can often help you get ready for the day, or even lift your spirits up after a tiring day outdoors, even if it's just something simple you whipped up in a flash.

If you're looking to set up your Airbnb property so it delights your guests and earns those coveted five-star reviews, your kitchen is often one of the best places to start. But, just like anything else, you need the right tools in a kitchen to make it good — imagine how frustrated your Airbnb guests would feel if they started cooking and didn't have everything they needed.

To help you set up your short-term rental for success, we've come up with this vacation rental kitchen checklist to help create a kitchen space that's both functional and inviting.

Short term rental kitchen list

1. Airbnb kitchen essentials: start with the basics

• 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

Hometime Tip: Always keep in mind your home’s capacity when supplying your guests with kitchen essentials. If your home can accommodate 8 people or more, have on hand enough crockery and cutlery to cook for at least 8 people.

• 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

Hometime Tip: 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. Don’t forget 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.

2. Dinnerware and utensils: the building blocks

• 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.

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3. Airbnb kitchen appliances: making life easier

• 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.

Hometime Tip: Imagine what would be difficult to find in this kitchen space and try to demystify it for your guests by providing a kitchen guide with detailed notes.

4. Other Airbnb pantry essentials to make a difference

• 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. Additional 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.

Hometime Tip: 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.

Elevate your short-term rental and get better reviews 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, your partner in property management, for expert Airbnb management advice and short term rental management services, including:

• Property styling and photography
• Listing optimisation
• Cleaning services
• Revenue and booking management
• Guest management
• Property maintenance
• Access to Hometime's all-in-one property management software

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