Seasonal Cleaning Guide for Winter: What Every Host Should Know

As the colder months set in, hosting becomes a different kind of job. The shift in weather, lighting, and guest behaviour means your cleaning routine has to adapt. For busy hosts, staying ahead with winter-ready cleaning not only keeps your property guest-ready; it safeguards your investment.

Here’s how to prepare your property for winter seamlessly.

1. Tackle Moisture & Prevent Mould

Winter brings closed windows, higher humidity indoors, and less natural ventilation; all of which raise the risk of mould and damp. To stay ahead, ensure you:

• Open windows briefly after each check-in/out to air the space.
• Run the extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens until surfaces are dry.
• Inspect behind furniture and in corners for hidden condensation.
• Use a dehumidifier or place silica-gel packs in wardrobes and storage if needed.

2. Refresh Linens & Bedding for Comfort

Guests expect warmth and comfort in winter. Crisp, fresh sheets help both comfort and perception of cleanliness.

• Swap to a heavier duvet or add an extra blanket but ensure they’re clean, fluff-free and well-rested.
• Launder white towels and linen at higher heat (within fabric tolerances) to remove winter smells.
• Replace spare sets if your turnover rate is high. Winter bookings often mean more stays back-to-back.

3. Deep Clean Hidden Areas & High-Traffic Spots

Winter life means more indoor time: more foot traffic, more dust, more wear. Use this season as an opportunity to deep clean specific areas:

• Clean behind radiators, near external doors.
• Wipe down baseboards, vacuum behind sofas, and clean air vents.
• Inspect carpets and rugs for debris and treat accordingly.
• Focus on the bathroom: grout, shower screens, and drains often accumulate grime when humidity rises.

4. Maintain Guest-Ready Details That Stand Out

Even when things are busy, the little touches matter especially in winter when guests value comfort and care:

• Stock up on hand soap, tissues, and warm amenities. Guests noticing you’ve thought of them helps reviews.
• Consider adding a welcome tray with tea/coffee/hot chocolate, or a handwritten note to elevate the experience.
• Ensure lighting is warm (soft white bulbs), curtains or blinds are dust-free (winter light shows every detail), and check that heating is working and vents are clean.

5. Update Your Cleaning Checklist for Winter

Standard turnovers don’t freeze in time, update your checklist to reflect seasonal demands:

• Add a line for “air room for 5 minutes” or “check ventilation after heating”.
  
• Add “wipe vent covers / clean thermostat screen”.
• Document and photograph your cleaned spaces especially carpet/rug areas that take more winter wear.

Final Thoughts

Winter doesn’t have to mean fewer bookings or more stress. With the right preparation, your property stays guest-ready, respected by guests, and protected from weather-oriented wear and tear.
At The Guest Prep Co., we specialise in helping hosts maintain high standards through every season. If you’d like support with your winter cleaning turnovers or a deep seasonal reset, we’re here to help.