What do you really need to start Airbnb hosting?
In the old days, when Airbnb was just getting its start, they named it Airbnb because you only needed an air mattress to start hosting.
These days, people have heard of Airbnb and have higher expectations. But while a bed frame is nice, it's actually not required. We started hosting on our Ikea foldout couch in 2010 in San Francisco.
We would share our small bathroom and kitchen with our guests. Everyone was happy to hang out and meet each other.
I see hosts who wait until every little branded detail in their home is perfect before they start, and I would encourage them to… just start!
Be honest with guests about what to expect.
Did we have an alarm clock, fluffy robes, and three ways to make coffee when we started hosting? No.
Did we have a tv and luggage rack? Nope!
We had a nice room with a lock, a place to sleep, nice towels, a nightstand with a vase of flowers, and a bathroom down the hall. Guests loved it because it was clean, quiet, and they were staying in a real home in San Francisco.
Oh, and they got to meet our dog Mia, too.
But, now that Airbnb is more common - there’s a huge range of what’s expected. Online listings include yurts, castles, penthouses, and sailboats listed on Airbnb.
So, what do you ACTUALLY need to start hosting? What’s the bare minimum?
In my opinion, here’s what you need to start. Here’s the bare minimum:
A mattress. Ideally, it's a bed with a frame, nice sheets, pillows, and a comforter or duvet. But really all you need is a bed of any kind.
Safety features, like a lock on the door. How will your guests get in? How will they feel safe when inside or when arriving at night? The room must be a room meant for living: with two exits for fire safety. Ideally, a window and a closet. You’ll need a fire extinguisher and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Your guest’s safety is your most important responsibility as a host.
Towels. Hot water, too, though I suppose you can let them know your shower only runs cold. Honesty solves everything.
Wifi. This is the most-needed amenity and isn’t really negotiable. It's a safety tool as well.
No clutter. None of your personal items stashed into the nightstand drawer or on countertops. Clear the way for guests.
Everything else is extra. Really.
Will having those 5 things get you rave reviews and let you stand out among the rest?
Nope. But, they are what you actually need to just start! And I recommend that hosts just start hosting before their spaces are perfectly outfitted with every key detail.
Here are the next “essentials” that I recommend:
Entryway: Motion-sensored lights and a keypad or smart lock for keyless entry.
Lighting: add lights by the bed so guests don’t have to get up to turn off the light.
Storage: a luggage rack or empty dresser or closet - some place that guests can unpack without moving aside your clutter.
Toiletries: shampoo, conditioner and soap or body wash.
Coffee: I believe providing coffee is the extra mile that all hosts should go. Also, a way to make coffee, obviously.
Extra bedding and towels.
Basic kitchen essentials: enough dishes for all guests (x 2), one very sharp knife and cutting board, pots and pans, cooking utensils, serving dishes, dish towels, soap, and a brand new sponge for every booking.
A desk or work place.
A spot to sit or lounge (big chair or sofa).
Curtains for privacy and shade.
Here’s what you DON’T actually need to start hosting:
Super high-end sheets (ours are organic cotton from Target and they’re great)
A tv (we hosted for nine years without one and had 5-star reviews and media coverage)
Magazines, books, games
Fluffy robes
Knick-knacks of any kind
Plants
Mugs, tote bags, water bottles with your house name on them
Instagrammable pillows and throws
Fancy hot water kettle or elaborate coffee-making tools. Our kettle is from Amazon.
Signature scent made just for your home. Not necessary!