What Personal Belongings Should You Hide from Airbnb Guests?

What should I do about my personal belongings before renting out an Airbnb?

Ever paused to consider the balance between showcasing your home's charm and safeguarding your personal items in your Airbnb? It's not about emptying your space of personality but creating a welcoming environment where your valuables are safely tucked away, yet the essence of home warmly greets every guest.

When you host Airbnb guests, there are personal belongings you're better off tucking away and other things you should consider leaving around for your guests to use. This list doesn't include any extras you’ll need to go and buy (we have another post about that): they’re simply things most of you will already have around your home.

Personal belongings to hide

• Money and Valuables: We're all for assuming the best in people, but let's not leave temptation at their fingertips. Whether it's a priceless watch handed down in your family or just a bit of cash in a drawer, it's about peace of mind. Consider a secure spot—maybe a locked cupboard or a small, unobtrusive safe that allows you to hide the small things away.
• Your Wardrobe: Imagine walking into a space and finding someone else's clothes hanging in the closet. A bit weird, right? Clear out personal clothing and make room for guests' items—think of offering them a blank canvas to settle into. A few empty drawers and hangers can make all the difference in making guests feel at home, not like they're intruding.
• Personal Documents: From bank statements to letters, some items are just too personal for guests' eyes. A locked file cabinet or a secure spot out of sight keeps your privacy intact and avoids any awkward moments.
• Medicines: It’s great to be prepared for minor mishaps, but prescription medications are a different story. Secure them away to prevent any accidents. A simple lockbox or a private drawer can be key to ensuring everyone's safety.

Securing your personal items doesn't have to feel like a fortress lockdown. By adding a secure spot in your property, be it a drawer, cupboard, or room, you can safeguard your valuables and sensitive information, ensuring peace of mind for you and a comfortable stay for your guests.

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What to leave out for Airbnb guests

• Entertainment Items: A collection of books, board games, and movies can turn any rainy day into a cosy holiday. It's these small touches that make your space feel lived-in and inviting, offering guests a peek into your world while providing comfort and entertainment.
• Local Menus & Recommendations: Sharing menus from your favourite local spots offers guests an insider’s guide to the best eats in town. It's a simple way to connect them with the local culture and make their stay memorable.
• Bathroom Essentials: The absence of a hairdryer or forgetting basic toiletries can be a minor inconvenience that sticks with guests. Including these items, especially in small bottles, adds a luxurious touch, making the bathroom feel like a mini-spa.
• Kitchen Staples: Inviting guests to indulge in a home-cooked meal or a simple cup of tea starts with the basics. Stocking the kitchen with essentials like spices, oils, and coffee not only encourages a homely feel but also shows thoughtfulness.
  • Need help figuring out what you need for the kitchen in your short term rental?Check out our recommendations for Airbnb kitchen essentials!

• Comfort Items: Comfort doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all. Extra pillows and blankets allow guests to customise their sleeping arrangements, ensuring a restful night for everyone.
• Cleaning Products: There are bound to be little accidents, and they shouldn’t be a hassle for your guests. Keeping a well-stocked supply of cleaning essentials on hand empowers guests to take care of spills and keeps your space pristine.

By thoughtfully curating the items you leave out for guests, you transform your Airbnb from just another rental to a warm, welcoming home from home. These touches not only elevate the guest experience but also reflect the thoughtful hospitality that can set your listing apart.

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Partner with Hometime for a seamless Airbnb hosting experience

At Hometime, we’re here to help you achieve great Airbnb experiences. With our dedicated local hosts, cleaning partners and housekeeping, we ensure your property not only stands out but also provides a seamless and memorable stay for every guest.

• 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

Thinking of giving your Airbnb that professional edge? Reach out to Hometime today for a complimentary earnings estimate.