It takes 3 times for information to process in a guests head. I mention it in the listing, in their Thank You for booking message and in the arrival information message. I also mention that there are no exceptions due to the housekeeper’s tight schedule and the probability of back-to-back bookings.
I still get 1/4 of my guests asking for an early check in or check out due to airplane schedules. Everyone always has a flight in early and a flight out late. I always tell them to check in with me a couple days before their check in or check out to see if I have a back to back, and if I don’t I can have them come earlier. Sometimes if the housekeeper is cleaning that day even though it’s not a back to back I can always just say No.
One tip- Get them doing stuff on their way in. I don’t know where you’re located by I’m always telling guests to pick up groceries and goodies for their stay on their way in to save time and money. Which is true for all my listings locations.. This will buy some time. And they will be grateful for the advice. I even tell them- This is what I offer (I.e: 2 rolls of PT and 4-6 of TP and soap and shampoo oil and salt and pepper- no spices, so if they want more they can get it.)
If you just can’t seem to stop them from requesting or arriving early- come up with a luggage drop area. A taped off area inside the front door with a sign is best-“Please Leave luggage in the taped area- please no using the facilities before the space is clean and proper for you”. And on the sign and in your message tell them that they are leaving their bags at their own risk and that you are not responsible for their belongings before check in or after check out. And then give them a few ideas for where to go grab a bite. You could even have photocopied handouts in a bin on the wall above the taped off baggage drop area that say “What to do around here while waiting to check in” and give them suggestions, along with trip recommendations for restaurants and activities. If it’s your home and weather permit, set up an area outside for them to sit and wait -if they are going to be hanging around. And have a bowl of wrapped crackers and water. This is all just suggestions but at some point you’ll know if you can keep them at bay or not. And if not, don’t get stressed about it- just find a way to herd them that works for you.