For me It's simple to be a great guest. But maybe there's a misunderstanding about cleaning. As a host I view the cleaning fee being applied to preparing the place and making sure all the details are just so to impress guests when they walk through the door. It's not a maid service after they leave. You don't have to leave it immaculate, most guest are great but sometimes not so respectful or hygienic. Because of the later that's why there are rules in my book.
I had a recent guest that left days of food scraps all over the kitchen and living room, thick bacon grease caked onto the stove and walls, cereal and chocolate in the couch, stains on the LV rug, whiskers and shaving cream on the bathroom floor & walls....that was insulting and gross - and cleaners charge more for that.
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Do you think that hosts should be responsible for personal messes. Where is the line???
As a guest and a host I always take the sheets off the bed and towels and put them in a pile. I sweep up any food, wipe counters, wash the dishes and remove hair from drains and sinks. I do this at home, at friends houses and at abnb's – out of habit and good manners.
I think If you leave the place like you'd leave your house and take care of your food mess and hygiene debris – your a dream guest. Thoughts? This is a great question– thanks!