Airbnb Photo Prep & Staging Checklist

General Prep (Applies to All Rooms/Spaces)

  • Deep clean all interior and exterior areas
  • Replace any dead lightbulbs with warm-white, matching temperature
  • Turn on all lights for brightness, even during the day
  • Open all curtains/blinds to let in natural light
  • Remove any personal items, clutter, or brand labels
  • Hide all trash cans, cords, remotes, or unattractive items
  • Hide everything not intentional
  • All lights on — both overhead and lamp/sconce

Interior Staging

Living Room: Arrange furniture for conversation and flow

  • Fluff pillows, fold throws, style coffee table (tray, book, candle, or plant)
  • Turn off TV; turn on fireplace if you have one
  • All table lamps are on

Kitchen:

  • Clear counters except 1-2 tasteful items: cutting board with fruit, olive oil bottle, etc.
  • Clean all appliances and sinks to a shine
  • Style a coffee nook or bar setup with mugs or wine glasses
  • Add a bottle of wine or welcome basket if available

Dining Room:

  • Minimal table setting for 4–6 (plates, napkins, stemware, placemat, centerpiece)
  • Center a floral arrangement or fruit bowl

Bedrooms:

  • Make beds with hotel-style precision (layers, fluffed pillows, throws)
  • Nightstands: lamp, book, maybe a small flower or water carafe
  • Hide all personal items and clothing
  • Fluff all bedding, straighten every pillow, adjust all blinds

Bathrooms:

  • Roll or fold towels neatly (1 hand towel, 1 bath towel per visible space)
  • Remove all personal products
  • Add a neutral decorative item (mini plant, candle, soap dish)
  • Clean mirrors, polish faucets

Outdoor Areas (Luxury Lifestyle Focus)

Pool Area:

  • Skim pool, vacuum if needed, make sure water is crystal clear
  • Lay out 2–4 pool towels in a styled way
  • Set up lounge chairs with pillows and rolled towels
  • Add a small side table with a pitcher of water and glasses or a styled tray
  • Consider staging pool floats if high-end and tasteful

Hot Tub:

  • Open cover and turn on jets for photos
  • Add rolled towels nearby, optional wine glasses on edge
  • Clean thoroughly to avoid any debris/foam buildup
  • Outdoor Grill / Dining Area
  • Clean grill, remove any residue

Set table for outdoor dining (plates, glasses, centerpiece, napkins)

  • Add styling details: fresh herbs, drink pitcher, citronella candle

Fire Pit:

  • Arrange seating in a cozy, symmetrical way
  • Add folded blankets or throws on chairs
  • Stage the fire pit with firewood or gas flame on (if safe)
  • Add marshmallows or wine glasses nearby to hint at experience

Other Outdoor Spaces:

  • Mow lawn, rake leaves, sweep patios
  • Hide hoses, tools, or equipment
  • Light outdoor string lights (if any) for dusk shots