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.
• Try to provide a printed kitchen guide to reduce inquiries from your guests when they're at your property. This will help you get great Airbnb reviews from guests.
• Keep our best practices for Airbnb interior design in mind: make sure your purchases follow your property's theme and vibe.
• If you've got limited space in the property, you can also set up your Airbnb for remote working by using the dining table as a work station.

Know more about essential furniture for Airbnbs by reaching out to Hometime — we'll connect you with an Airbnb stylist in your area who'll help you set up your property for success:

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. 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. 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. 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. 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.

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 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 property 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. This includes navigating the local Airbnb rules for hosts in your area.
• Listing optimisation:
  Our team constantly works on improving your listing using Airbnb SEO and Airbnb styling and professional real-estate photography.
  
• Revenue management and optimisation:
  Hometime’s pricing analysts and market experts use Airbnb dynamic pricing strategies and customised minimum night settings to optimise your revenue while increasing short-term rental occupancy at the same time
  
• Airbnb cleaning services:
  We’ll find the best cleaners in your area for regular cleans and restocking between stays, paid for using the built-in cleaning fee from the booking. No need to pay out of pocket between guest stays.
  
• 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! We also employ a guest-vetting process to ensure that guests are suited for your property so you can get good reviews and avoid potential Airbnb damage claims.
  
• 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.
• Access to Hometime's all-in-one property management software to manage your Airbnb remotely.