In brief
Airbnb has updated its house‑rules policy to prevent hosts from demanding guests perform tasks normally left to professional cleaners, such as stripping beds or washing dishes. Hosts can set up to seven standard rules and issue other reasonable requests, with the new rule taking effect for reservations made on or after 20 November. The changes also require clearer display of rules and eliminate the ability for hosts to fine guests for non‑compliance. While routine cleaning requests stay prohibited, hosts may ask for restrictions in special circumstances—such as water‑sensitivity during droughts. The update follows a wave of traveler complaints and viral TikTok clips showing hosts detailing minor infractions like a misplaced remote control.
Airbnb’s new guidelines prohibit hosts from asking guests to perform tasks normally reserved for a cleaner, such as stripping beds, washing dishes, or moving trash offsite. The policy, effective for all reservations made on or after 20 November, allows hosts to set up to seven standard house‑rules and other reasonable requests.
The update comes after guests voiced frustration about being tasked with cleaning work while still paying a cleaning fee. Hosts may still request guests limit shower time during local droughts, but otherwise guests are shielded from such duties.
Rules will now appear prominently in guests’ reservation details and reminders, and only contracts that are legally required will be enforceable. Hosts can appeal if a request is flagged by Airbnb for violating policy.
A recent boom in TikTok videos depicting hosts inspecting properties afterward—highlighting donations of a forgotten remote or improperly arranged items—has amplified discussions about the fairness of these rules.
Airbnb’s change aims to balance hosts’ desire for orderly stays with guests’ right to a hassle‑free experience, offering clearer boundaries and up‑to‑date transparency for all parties involved.
