Vacarya Help Center

How to hire reliable cleaners?

To recruit, vet, and retain dependable cleaners who consistently meet hospitality-level standards and support 5-star guest experiences.

Updated over 2 months ago

Watch “Hiring Your Power Team" video in the Masterclass

Step 1: Define Your Cleaning Standards

Be clear on expectations before hiring and Create a checklist that includes:

Turnover cleaning scope (bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen, living areas)
Linen change and laundry process
Restocking supplies (toiletries, coffee, paper goods)
Damage and maintenance reporting
Photo documentation after cleaning

Candidates understand the level of detail required.

Step 2: Source Candidates

Where to find cleaners

Local Facebook host groups
Referrals from other hosts ( WhatsApp Group Chat)
Cleaning service companies ( Turno, TaskRabbit, Thumbtack etc.)
Job platforms (Indeed, local listings)

Prioritize cleaners with short-term rental experience

Step 3: Initial Screening

Filter for reliability and professionalism

Ask:

Experience with Airbnb or short-term rentals
Number of properties currently handled
Availability for same-day turnovers
Turnaround time
Backup cleaner availability

Red Flag: Slow responses or unclear availability

Step 4: Interview & Expectation Alignment

Discuss:

Cleaning checklist and quality standards
Communication expectations
Reporting issues immediately
Access procedures and security
Pay structure (per turnover vs hourly)

Step 5: Trial Clean (Optional)

Evaluate:

Attention to detail
Bed presentation and staging
Bathroom and kitchen quality
Smell and overall feel
Timeliness

Take photos and score performance

Step 6: Set Clear SOP & Communication

Provide cleaners with:

Cleaning Turnover Process
Cleaners Checklist
Emergency contact
Property guide (parking, access, trash rules) - Check your property sheet , lease agreement for this policy/rule or reach out via WhatsApp GC.

Communication channel:
WhatsApp or team app ( Slack, FB Messenger etc.)

Step 7: Performance Monitoring

First 3 cleans are probationary, track

Guest cleanliness feedback
On-time completion
Responsiveness
Issues reported

Action: Provide feedback immediately

Step 8: Retention & Backup Plan

To keep great cleaners and avoid any operational disruption.

Pay on time
Provide consistent schedule
Give performance bonuses (optional)

Always maintain:

At least one backup cleaner per property.