Should I charge guests to use the washer / dryer

Richard3413
Level 1
London, United Kingdom

Should I charge guests to use the washer / dryer

Hi, I have a combi washer dryer and dryer and noticed that travelling guests  rather than UK visiting London for a staycation are excessively using the machine. By excessive, I mean the moment they arrive and a number of times throughout their stay. If someone is staying for two nights, 4/5 wash and dry cycles seems a lot. I get if someone is staying for 5 or more nights, then the machine is a benefit and I’m ok with reasonable use, but still within a reasonable amount. I don’t leave any products out to use so they are using their own but I’m worried about the electricity cost and wear and tear on the machine. 


Does anyone have any views on this? Do you charge? 

I have a smart machine that’s linked to my phone so I can see the usage (unfortunately) 

 

Thanks in advance 

 

Richard 

15 Replies 15
Helen0
Level 10
Manchester, United Kingdom

In my experience, if your listing shows a washer and a dryer as an amenity that is available to guests, you will attract people who are travelling around and specifically look for a place every now and again to catch-up on all their laundry! Multiple guests have cheerfully told me this. I have even come across this when I was away myself and booked into an Airbnb property that also had two other guest rooms. The other guests decided to fill up the common spaces with their damp laundry everywhere, which I really didn't enjoy. 

 

I therefore no longer list my washing machine as available and I give details of the nearest public laundrette in my guest folder of local amenities and recommendations. I feel this is appropriate for a home-host who charges a very competitive rate - you might decide free laundry is something you want to provide for a luxury self-contained property, but then you can't really impose limits.

Occasionally, depending on circumstances, I do allow guests to do one load of washing in my machine but when they realise I don't have a tumble dryer and they would have to hang things to dry on the outdoor washing line, or in their room, most people change their mind.