Why Create an Allergy-Free Vacation Rental?
By working to rid your vacation rental of common allergens, like pet dander and pollen, it opens up a market for guests willing to pay more for this peace of mind. From cleaning products, procedures, and regulations, all of your decisions need to be intentional to create an allergy-free vacation rental.
There are a lot of commonly used cleaning products that aren’t suitable for those with allergies. For example, fabric softeners are popular for their convenience but can cause irritation for some people.
Cleaning procedures need to target commonly overlooked places, such as ceiling fans and air conditioner filters. Lastly, providing an allergy-free environment requires certain regulations such as prohibiting smoking, which can cause problems for your guests’ health and your property.
7 Ways to Allergy-Proof Your Airbnb
According to EnviroKlenz, “allergies are very common, with at least one in five Americans suffering from this frustrating medical condition.” Some people have allergies to the environment or — if you’re a vacation rental host or cleaner — even the cleaning products that you use.
Below, learn seven top cleaning recommendations for an allergy-free vacation rental property.
1. Use Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products
Commercial cleaning products with harsh chemicals can cause skin irritation, shortness of breath, and general discomfort for people with allergies. On the other hand, eco-friendly cleaning products are beneficial for many reasons, their environmental impact being one of them.
These green cleaning products are also easier to find than you may think. For example, the popular detergent brand Tide sells a hypoallergenic option called Tide Free & Gentle, which is dye-free, phosphate-free, fragrance-free, and EPA-certified.
Other notable eco-friendly cleaning products include Blueland Multi-Surface Cleaner, Clorox® compostable wipes, and ECOS plant-powered dish soap. These items can be found online or at retailers like Target and Walmart.
2. Stay Away From Harsh Air Fresheners
You may enjoy your Black Ice air freshener or tropical aroma candle, but they can cause discomfort for guests with allergies.
A study conducted by Emory University reported that “chemicals used in common air fresheners can cause allergy sufferers to experience nasal congestion, a runny nose, and sneezing.” Don’t break the bank buying scents only to have them harm the welcoming and zen environment of your vacation rental.
3. Don’t Allow Smoking Indoors
Aside from the many dangers of smoking in your short-term rental — such as a potential fire — make sure to regulate smoking. According to Live Science, smoking tobacco or secondhand smoke can aggravate a person’s seasonal allergies.
4. Use a High-Quality Vacuum Cleaner
A quality vacuum cleaner is beneficial because it will be your daily driver. A high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter vacuum cleaner is effective in removing dust and pet dander, and it better traps allergens.
5. Minimize Items that Attract Dust
The best way to reduce the amount of dust and dander in your vacation rental is to minimize or eliminate items that collect dust. This may include rugs, lamps, and bookshelves. If you’re unable or just prefer not to remove these items, clean them regularly.
6. Reduce Dust Mites in Your Furniture
Soft furnishings, like bean bags, sofas, and beds, can hold on to dust mites. A steamer or vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter is typically sufficient for soft furnishings.
7. Schedule Consistent Deep Cleanings
On top of regularly cleaning, twice a year you should schedule a deep cleaning service to remove dust mites and other allergens. Also, request to add a miticide to ensure dust mites stay out.
Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnbs and Allergies
What causes high indoor dust and dander levels?
The accumulation of animal fur, dead skin cells, hair, and food debris causes indoor dust and dander. The best way to combat this issue is to frequently clean common areas. Fight indoor dust by vacuuming carpets and using Swiffer® Dusters™ and Sweepers™.
How do you allergy-proof a bedroom?
For bedding, use dust mite pillow and mattress covers and change them in between guests. Also, an air purifier and a decluttered bedroom are recommended for a good night’s sleep.
What is the best allergy-proof mattress pad?
As mentioned, invest in dust mite protectors for your pillows and mattresses. We recommend this top allergy-proof mattress pad from Mission: Allergy, but there are more affordable options available at retailers like Macy’s and Bed Bath & Beyond.
How do I keep pollen out of my rental home?
The best way to keep pollen out is by keeping your windows closed. Although it’s tempting to crack open a window on a cool, breezy day, your air conditioning system may be a safer option. Also, be sure to keep up with routine cleaning.
Keep Your Airbnb Allergy-Free – Never Miss a Cleaning
An allergy-free vacation rental requires a little bit of planning and quite a bit of cleaning. The hardest part is researching cleaning products and procedures. After narrowing down the basics of hypoallergenic vacation rentals, executing takes an equivalent amount of time and cost. But, the reward is being able to charge more for a premium experience.
If you don’t have time or prefer not to do your own turnover cleanings, the Turno Cleaner Marketplace can connect you with reliable and affordable cleaners in your area. You’ll never miss a cleaning again, and you won’t have to lift a finger.
