Short answer: vacuum and spot-treat at every changeover, keep a simple stain kit on site, and schedule a deep clean of carpets, lounges and mattresses before each busy season. Low-moisture cleaning suits tight turnarounds because it dries in an hour or two.
Why short-stay properties are harder on carpet
Guests arrive with suitcases, wear shoes inside and are less careful than they are at home. A busy property can see more foot traffic in a month than a family home sees in six.
Adelaide’s peaks are predictable: the festival season in February and March, long weekends, big sporting weekends, and the Christmas and summer holidays. Back-to-back bookings leave little time between guests.
At every changeover
- Vacuum all carpet, including under beds and behind doors.
- Check for new marks and treat them straight away.
- Lift couch cushions and vacuum underneath.
- Strip beds and check mattress protectors.
- Air the property while you clean.
A stain kit worth keeping on site
- White cloths and paper towel
- Clear dishwashing liquid and a spray bottle of water
- An enzyme cleaner for urine and food
- Bicarb soda for odours
- A hand-held vacuum
Most guest stains are red wine, coffee, makeup and food. See red wine on carpet.
Scheduling deep cleans
| When | What |
|---|---|
| Before festival season | Carpets, lounge, mattresses |
| After summer | Carpets and rugs, to remove sand and dust |
| Mid-winter | Entry and living areas |
| After any long stay | Whole property |
When time between guests is short, ask about low-moisture carpet cleaning. It is ready to walk on in an hour or two. See steam vs dry carpet cleaning and how long carpet takes to dry.
Protecting your reviews
Cleanliness is the thing guests mention most. A fresh smell at the door, a lounge without marks and a clean mattress under the protector all show up in ratings. A stained carpet in listing photos costs bookings.
See carpet cleaning, couch and upholstery cleaning and mattress cleaning. For several properties or regular visits, see commercial carpet cleaning. We cover all Adelaide suburbs.
FAQs
How often should a short-stay property have carpets cleaned?
Every three to six months for a busy listing, plus spot treatment at each changeover.
Can carpets be cleaned between a morning checkout and afternoon check-in?
Often, yes, with low-moisture cleaning. Mention the timing when you book.
Should I charge guests for carpet stains?
That depends on your platform’s rules and your house rules. Photograph the damage at changeover before cleaning.
