What to include in the check out list?

[Ladan38]

I'm a new host and would like to know what to include in the checkout list. Appreciate your time and suggestion in advance.

[Mike-And-Jane0]

@Ladan38 all we asked was that people shut the windows, locked the door and took out the trash. We specifically asked people not to strip the beds as it is hard to then spot if there is a need to treat stains.

[Lorina14]

@Ladan38 

We ask guests to do the following: put trash and recycling in bins in the unit (we take it out after they leave), turn off lights, open shades (so we know they left - now sometimes guests click the check out button but I’ve only had a few guests actually do this), put dishes in the dishwasher or sink, check if you left anything behind in the fridge, washer/dryer, bed, bathroom, lock the door, please sign our guestbook if they feel inclined, and please complete a review within 14 days of checkout. 

I personally don’t like to be asked to take out the trash, strip the bed (it’s hard to treat for stains if there are any), put on the wash, as that is why we pay the cleaning fee (and I actually do my dishes, put it away, clean the stove without being asked but asking is a bit much). I do treat each space like my own and tidy up before leaving.

Some hosts ask to put towels in a pile in the bathtub or laundry basket which could be helpful to know what is used or not. I once had a couple of guests who washed towels and piled them on top of the clean ones and I wasn’t sure about the status so I washed all the towels again. 

[Inna22]

@Ladan38 I think it depends on the property.

If your place is small and you charge a decent cleaning fee, asking for nothing might make sense.

If you live in a tropical climate or in a remote wooded area, asking to dispose all food so not to attract creatures might make sense.

If you live somewhere very humid, asking to leave towels in the tub might make sense

If you charge a minimal cleaning fee, asking to start a wash, a dishwasher etc might make sense.

I think you get the point.

Personally, I ask to take out the trash, start the dishwasher, clean exuberant messes and move back any furniture if it were moved. I host big groups so if I do not ask for this, I might be stuck with 10 bags of trash, heavy couch moved to the other side of the house and three days worth of dishes piled high.

As a guest, I hate instructions. I will naturally do my best to clean up but hate a long to do list even if everything on it as minor. It makes me anxious.