In the fast-paced short-term rental market of College Park, a seamless turnover is non-negotiable. With guests flying in and out of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and attending events at the Georgia International Convention Center (GICC), your property's cleanliness and readiness are the bedrock of 5-star reviews and Superhost status. A missed detail can lead to a negative review that impacts your booking rate for months.

This comprehensive checklist is designed for College Park hosts, blending Airbnb's official 5-step cleaning process with local insights. It covers everything from deep cleaning and sanitization to restocking essentials and verifying your property is picture-perfect for the next arrival.

Phase 1: Preparation and Safety

Before you even pick up a cleaning cloth, preparation is key. This phase is about efficiency and safety, ensuring you have everything you need and are working in a safe environment.

Ventilate the Space: Open windows and doors upon entering to air out the property. The CDC recommends this as a simple but effective first step for improving air quality before cleaning.
Gather All Supplies: Assemble your cleaning caddy with EPA-approved disinfectants (check for products on List N for effectiveness against viruses), microfiber cloths, a HEPA-filter vacuum, and any specialty cleaners needed.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear gloves and a mask, especially when handling used linens and cleaning bathrooms.
Remove All Trash & Guest Belongings: Strip all beds and gather used towels. Empty every trash can, including bathrooms and the kitchen. Check drawers, closets, and under beds for any items guests may have left behind.

Professional cleaner actively wiping a surface during a turnover in College Park, GA

Phase 2: The Cleaning Workflow (Room by Room)

Work methodically from top to bottom, back to front, to avoid re-cleaning surfaces. This ensures dust and debris fall downward and you clean your way out of a room.

Kitchen

The kitchen is a high-scrutiny area. Guests expect it to be spotless and hygienic.

Appliances: Clean the microwave inside and out. Wipe down the refrigerator exterior, paying close attention to the handle. Check inside for leftover food and wipe down shelves. Clean the stovetop and oven door. Run the dishwasher with any remaining items, and later confirm it's empty.
Surfaces: Clean and sanitize all countertops, the sink, and the faucet. Wipe down the backsplash.
Cabinets: Spot-clean cabinet fronts and handles.
Floors: Sweep or vacuum, then mop with a suitable floor cleaner.

Living Room / Common Areas

This is where guests relax. The goal is a comfortable, dust-free environment.

Dusting: Dust all surfaces, including coffee tables, end tables, bookshelves, light fixtures, and ceiling fans. Don't forget electronics like the TV and remote controls.
Upholstery: Vacuum sofas and chairs, checking between cushions for debris. Straighten pillows and fold throw blankets neatly.
Floors: Vacuum carpets and rugs thoroughly. If you have hard floors, vacuum or sweep before mopping.
High-Touch Surfaces: Disinfect light switches, door handles, and TV remotes.

Bedrooms

A clean, serene bedroom is essential for a good night's rest and a positive review.

Linens: Make the bed with fresh, clean linens. Ensure there are no stains or wrinkles. A well-made bed is a powerful signal of cleanliness.
Furniture: Wipe down all furniture, including nightstands, dressers, and headboards. Check inside drawers for dust or forgotten items.
Mirrors & Windows: Clean any mirrors and spot-clean interior windows.
Floors: Vacuum the entire floor, especially under the bed.

Bathrooms

This is the most critical room for sanitization. Guests have zero tolerance for a dirty bathroom.

Shower & Tub: Scrub the shower walls, tub, and fixtures to remove all soap scum. Clean the shower door and track.
Toilet: Clean and disinfect the toilet from top to bottom, including the base and the area behind it.
Vanity & Sink: Clean the countertop, sink, and faucet. Polish the mirror until it's streak-free.
Floors: Sweep and mop the floor with a disinfectant cleaner.

Phase 3: Restocking and Staging

Once everything is clean, the final touches set the stage for a 5-star experience. This is where you show your hospitality.

Restock Matrix

Use a checklist to ensure every stay is consistent. Quantities are per stay, adjust based on your property size and max guest count.

Item	Location	Quantity
Toilet Paper Rolls	Bathroom	2-3 per bathroom
Paper Towel Roll	Kitchen	1 new roll
Hand Soap	Each Sink	Full dispenser
Shampoo / Conditioner / Body Wash	Shower	Full or new small bottles
Dish Soap & Sponge	Kitchen	Full dispenser, new sponge
Coffee & Tea Supplies	Kitchen	Assortment (e.g., 6 K-cups, 4 tea bags)
Trash Bags	Under Sink	3-4 extra bags

Staging Tasks

Set the thermostat to a comfortable temperature (e.g., 72°F).
Arrange pillows and decorative items neatly.
Leave a welcome note or a small local snack.
Ensure all blinds are set to the same level for a uniform look.

Phase 4: Final Inspection & Proof Photos

Your last step is a final walkthrough to catch anything you might have missed. This is also the time to document the property's condition.

Photo-Proof Angles Checklist

Taking timestamped photos before each guest's arrival can be invaluable in case of a dispute. Focus on areas that could be subject to claims.

Kitchen: A clear shot of the clean stovetop and oven interior.
Living Room: A wide shot showing the condition of the sofa and any electronics.
Bedrooms: Photo of each perfectly made bed.
High-Value Items: Close-ups of the TV, coffee maker, or any special amenities.
Exterior: A quick shot of the entryway or patio area.

College Park & Georgia Specifics: A Mini-FAQ

Do I need a license to operate in College Park? While College Park has its own business license requirements, the City of Atlanta's Short-Term Rental Ordinance requires hosts within its limits to obtain an annual license. Always check with the latest city regulations.

What about local taxes? The state of Georgia imposes a $5.00 per night Hotel-Motel Fee on short-term rentals, which platforms like Airbnb often collect and remit on your behalf. Confirm this in your host settings.

What do guests near the airport ask for? Guests often ask about noise levels, so be transparent in your listing. They also value information on the best local spots for a quick meal (e.g., Brake Pad, The Real Milk & Honey) and the easiest way to get to the airport or GICC.

A meticulous turnover process is your best marketing tool. It builds a reputation for quality that translates directly into more bookings and higher revenue. While this checklist is extensive, executing it perfectly every time can be a challenge. If you're looking to save time and guarantee a professional clean for every guest, consider partnering with a service that specializes in short-term rental turnovers.

Need a Reliable Turnover Partner in College Park?

Prime Clean Force provides hotel-quality turnover cleaning services for Airbnb hosts in College Park and throughout the Atlanta area. We handle the cleaning, sanitizing, and restocking, so you can focus on your guests. Get your free estimate today and ensure every turnover is 5-star perfect.