Has a Host or Airbnb ever penalized you a for superficial menstrual stain? Or Charged you without proper evidence? Or upheld a ridiculous claim?

[Grace1350]

Dear Airbnb Community,

I’m writing today not just for myself, but for every woman — and every guest — who has quietly experienced shame or injustice over something they did not deserve.

I was recently charged by Airbnb for a minor stain on a mattress, which may have been menstrual. Despite asking repeatedly, I was never shown photos of the sheet I slept on, and there was no dated or contextual evidence proving the stain occurred during my stay. The only “evidence” was a zoomed-in photo of a mattress — no room context, no timeline, no linens — and yet Airbnb ruled against me and authorized a charge of $63.36 AUD .

Beyond the personal impact — which has been deeply distressing — this case highlights a concerning policy gap that affects not only women, but many guests across the platform:

• Airbnb’s damage reimbursement system does not account for women’s health realities, such as menstruation, and lacks empathy and nuance in such cases.

• It leaves room for subjective, unverified accusations, with the burden of proof placed unfairly on guests.

• It has allowed outrageous claims to be upheld — even in cases where guests have provided evidence, or where damage is minor, explainable, or clearly pre-existing.

We deserve better.
Menstruation is not damage. Accidents happen. And no guest should be treated like they’re guilty without fair, transparent review.

If you’ve ever been charged for a ridiculous reason, penalised despite evidence, or made to feel shamed for something out of your control — you’re not alone. And you shouldn't stay silent.

Let’s start a conversation. Let’s push for policy reform. Let’s protect future guests from quiet discrimination and unfair claims.

With solidarity and strength,

Send me an email: ****

[Pictures removed as per author's request]

[Grace1350]

"These screenshots are shared purely to illustrate the timeline and my experience. I make no claims about the intent of the host, only the process I experienced.”

[Elegant-Homes-Retreat0]

Hi @Grace1350,
Thank you for your courage in sharing this. What you've described is not only concerning—it’s something many guests may quietly experience and not speak up about.

You’re absolutely right: menstruation is not damage, and the platform’s damage claim process should reflect that. Guests should not be charged without dated, contextual evidence, and certainly not based on zoomed-in photos without clarity. These types of decisions demand empathy, transparency, and balance—especially when it involves deeply personal matters.

@Airbnb and @AirbnbHelp, this is a moment to listen. The policy needs to acknowledge natural human realities and prevent unjust penalties that shame or single out individuals.

To every @Guest and @Host reading this—let’s continue pushing for fairness, sensitivity, and updated guidelines that protect dignity without compromise.

Thank you again, @Grace1350, for raising your voice. You’re not alone—and this conversation matters.

– @AryaStay

[Kitty-and-Creek0]

@Grace1350 

Thank you for starting this important conversation! As a host for many years, I've encountered lots of these accidents and for me it is just something human and definitely not to make a big deal about. I'd not consider charging or even mentioning the situation. As a well-traveled older female, I'm quite knowledgeable about how easily and often this happens, and (hello!) it is not intentional, nor is it in the category of damage. It is just one of those things.

My mattresses are protected by 2 layers of waterproof covers under a waterproof-backed mattress pad. IMHO, this should be standard, and I hope folks who have not yet done this are reading this. 

[Joan2709]

@Grace1350 

I agree with @Kitty-and-Creek0 that most Hosts just assume they will have to replace linens and towels now and again due to staining. Most Hosts do as @Kitty-and-Creek0 state and ensure the mattress is protected with double waterproof mattress protectors.

That said, I disagree with @Elegant-Homes-Retreat0 , this is damage to linens and the the linens may need to be replaced. However, most Hosts don't charge the guest for something like this unless it was multiple sheets/towels stained and the stains could not be removed.

[Kitty-and-Creek0]

@Joan2709 

As a hospitality professional I understand very well that all linens have a limited life. That's why I have so many extra sets of everything. And, thank you for your insight.