Why We Do It Differently...
Major Platforms have allowed quality to slip, lowering guest expectations to, “hopefully it's acceptable.” That’s not enough- it should be comfortable, cared for, and ideally, exceptional.
Hospitality Cleaning Standards
Defining “Clean” – The Professional Standard
Cleanliness is not subjective—it must reflect professional hospitality standards, NOT personal comfort levels.
Cleanliness isn’t about what you may be comfortable with—it’s about what a guest should never have to question. We all adapt to our own spaces over time, which means our sense of “clean enough” can become subjective.
To maintain true hospitality quality, OHK follows professional standards rather than personal habits. That’s what ensures consistency and helps give guests the confidence they’re booking a space prepared for them—not simply one that works for you.
NOTE: If you’re using a professional cleaning service, great. If not, please refer to the OHK guidelines in this section as your checklist. Our guide is designed to help you meet industry-level expectations and create the kind of experience people remember for the right reasons.
Clean Isn’t Optional-
It’s Expected!
Here’s What That Means
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ROOM-ONLY listings: cleanliness is required throughout the stay.
Even when using cleaning service the apartment must be checked, if it's not done correctly, it can be corrected.
ENTIRE-HOME listings: cleaning during the stay is not required, but guests must depart leaving the home in a reasonably clean condition.
1. Kitchen
STANDARD: The kitchen must be clean, sanitary, and free of visible debris or residue.
Includes:
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Floors free of spills, stains, food or liquid marks
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Countertops, sinks, and cabinet fronts clean — no grease buildup, crumbs, or residue
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Appliances (refrigerator, microwave, oven, etc.) wiped inside and outside
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Cleaning tools (sponges, towels) must be fresh, disinfected, and not worn
Why: Guests often prepare meals here. Cleanliness is not optional — it’s matter of safety.
2. Bathroom(s)
STANDARD: All bathroom surfaces must be professionally clean — visibly hygienic and free of buildup.
Includes:
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Toilet, shower, bath, sinks, and floors free of residue, hair, and stains
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Floor mats should be clean, intact, and replaced if worn
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Surfaces showing permanent staining are not acceptable for vacation use
Why: Bathrooms are where guests assess overall care.
Anything less than clean damages trust immediately.
3. Bedroom(s)
STANDARD: Sleeping areas must be neutral, clean, and free of personal or themed décor unless designed specifically for children.
Includes:
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Fresh, unstained bedding (recommend neutral tones)
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No themed, animated, or overly personal designs in adult bedrooms
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Avoid worn, faded, or heavily patterned linens that can feel unclean
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Floors, including under the bed, must be swept and mopped
Why: Sleep is personal. Guests expect hotel-quality freshness, not borrowed space.
4. General Space & Furnishings
STANDARD: All furnishings must be well-maintained, functional, and appropriately cleaned.
Includes:
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Inspect visible and hidden areas (e.g., under sofa cushions) — clear of dust, debris, and forgotten items.
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Free of unpleasant odors or have overwhelming deodorizer scents
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Remove or replace items that are visibly worn, stained, or non-functional
Why: The condition of furniture reflects the product, hosting investment, not just maintenance.
5. Appliances & Utility Areas
STANDARD: Any appliance available to guests must be fully operational and hygienically clean.
Includes:
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Washing machines, dryers, dishwashers, vacuums — cleaned inside and out
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A dishwasher should operate with hot water; if not, they should be cleaned with disinfectant and guests should informed that it doesn’t operate with hot water.
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Remove food particles completely — retained debris can create odor and/or health hazards
Why: Guests rely on functional appliances.
Malfunctioning or dirty machines create both dissatisfaction and liability.