How do you all keep lawn furniture clean during stays?

[Carol10276]

We have 3 different outdoor seating areas, all with a variety of outdoor furniture around a waterfront beach home. We clean the outdoor furniture before each guest, but...birds do their thing.  I try to clean during stays, but I don't want to invade guests privacy so it is hit or miss depending if they are away at the same time I can go and clean.  This time of year, the birds are relentless too.  We tried covers, but noticed that guests didn't use the areas at all then, as it isnt convenient or inviting, and hey, the birds dirty up the covers and who wants to touch that.  How do you all deal with keeping outdoor furniture clean, especially during longer stays?  We already had 1 guest rate us 4 for cleanliness, and when I messaged to ask what wasn't up to standard, she said it was the bird poo on the deck chair.  Is this an issue for other hosts?

[Shelley159]

Yes it's a big issue for me @Carol10276 !

I don't use any fabrics outdoors (aluminium & glass), but of course this doesn't mean the furniture is less of a target for birds - just easier to hose off. Avoiding fabrics may also not be appropriate at every listing. Because the outdoor areas get out of control so quickly (birds, leaves, squirrels), I try to avoid long bookings. I can't offer any genuinely helpful advice for you, aside from trying hard not to think about the mess while the place is booked! 😃

(One does get those rotating fixtures that reflect light and deter birds. I've been reluctant to try them as they may scare off more than just birds, but I guess it's worth a mention in case it helps you)

[Elegant-Homes-Retreat0 · Accepted solution]

Hi @Carol10276,

I totally understand your situation — outdoor spaces are a huge asset to a listing, but keeping them guest-ready can be a real challenge, especially during bird season! You're not alone in this. I’ve dealt with the same issue, especially during spring and summer when the bird activity is relentless.

You've already done a lot right: pre-arrival cleaning, covers, and respecting guest privacy during their stay. That balance between maintaining cleanliness and giving guests space is tricky, especially for longer bookings.

Here are a few ideas that might help:

Wipe-down baskets: Place a small, labeled outdoor basket with a few clean microfiber cloths and a natural cleaner spray (like diluted vinegar or mild soap) on the patio. Frame it as “for guests' comfort during their stay.” Many will appreciate it and help spot-clean.

Bird deterrents: As @Shelley159 mentioned, reflective bird deterrents (like pinwheels or hanging discs) can be helpful. I’ve also used fake owls or hawk decoys with some success — they may not scare every bird away, but they do reduce activity.

Daily weather-safe note: For longer bookings, you could leave a laminated note on outdoor furniture politely stating:
“If you'd like us to refresh the outdoor area during your stay, just send a quick message. We're happy to stop by when you're out or at your convenience!”

Fabric choice: Consider weather-resistant and wipeable materials for cushions and seating. Less fabric = easier maintenance.

And you're absolutely right — covers may keep things clean, but they also make the space feel uninviting. It’s a tough tradeoff.

That 4-star review over bird droppings is frustrating, especially when it's something out of your control. You're clearly doing your best and being thoughtful about the guest experience — that matters more than ever.

Wishing you a clean deck and kind guests this season!

[Karen114]

@Carol10276  @Elegant-Homes-Retreat0  Cleaning supplies as @Elegant-Homes-Retreat0  mentioned is the only solution.  Since we can't predict when birds will  do their thing, guest must solve on their own.  If they have outdoor furniture at their own home and it gets soiled or dirty, they have to clean it if they want to use it. It would not be reasonable to expect you to be on call to come over and wipe the  furntiture down when the situation presents. 

All my units are in  coastal area with lots of beautiful birds as well as constant construction.  I had one guest tell me that my housekeepers need to do a better job with sweeping the balcony and wiping down furniture.  She told  me she would take care of it.  A few days latere she messages me letting me know she cleaned and wiped down all the furniture and when  she returned at the end of the day, it was like she never did it.😂    Yes, thats life at the beach I replied.  

[Elegant-Homes-Retreat0]

@Karen114 thank you so much for your thoughtful input — couldn't agree more!

As you rightly said, when it comes to outdoor spaces, especially in natural surroundings or coastal areas, things like bird droppings or dust are simply part of the environment. We always provide cleaning supplies and inform guests in advance so they feel prepared and empowered.

Your beach story made me smile — it’s so true! Sometimes nature just has its own schedule. 😄
We believe in setting the right expectations while maintaining a clean, welcoming space — and voices like yours really help support that mindset across the host community.

Warm regards,
Team AryaStay | Elegant Homes Retreat

[Carol10276]

Thank you for sharing your experiences and helpful suggestions @Karen114 and @Elegant-Homes-Retreat0

Just a follow-up.  We placed cleaning supplies nearby with a friendly note to guests, but fortunately, we also tied reflective streamers to the backs of the chairs as suggested, and wow!  NO bird droppings on the chairs since we did that last week!  Previously, the birds were perching on the chair backs.  Thank you all.

[Elegant-Homes-Retreat0]

@Carol10276 that’s fantastic to hear — thank you so much for the update!

We’re so glad the reflective streamers worked for you — such a simple yet effective solution! It’s great to know that combining that with a friendly note and cleaning supplies made a big difference. These kinds of real-life tips are exactly what make the Airbnb community so strong and supportive.

Thanks again for sharing your success — we’ll be sure to recommend this to other hosts as well!

Warm regards,
Team AryaStay | Elegant Homes Retreat
Vadodara, India 🇮🇳